ACTS of the Apostles
Learning How to be Daring and Dynamic
Read Acts 4:32-37
Focus Verses: Acts 4:36-37
Thus Joseph, who was also called by the apostles Barnabas (which means son of encouragement), a Levite, a native of Cyprus, sold a field that belonged to him and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet.
I hope you noticed this passage of scripture is almost exactly like the passage I wrote about last week. We have a theme, ladies.
A significant point to be made about the first church of Christ-followers is they were unified - of one heart and one mind. At the risk of sounding repetitive (although, Luke didn't mind repeating himself), the first apostles were unified by their singular mission to testify about the resurrection of Jesus Christ. If our focus was on the resurrection of Jesus, we would live in unity with our brothers and sisters of the faith.... no matter our differences.
The connectedness they felt led them to,
take care of each other.
sell their possessions to give to those in need.
trusted the apostles to manage the community of believers.
And, again, look how far we've come!
I know we are reading through Acts. But, I'd like to include the words of another of the first church leaders. His words help me to understand what has led to the brokenness of our church communities.
What is the cause of your conflicts and quarrels with each other? Doesn't the battle begin inside of you as you fight to have your own way and fulfill your own desires? You jealously want what others have so you begin to see yourself as better than others. You scheme with envy and harm others to selfishly obtain what you crave -- that's why you quarrel and fight. And all the time you don't obtain what you want because you won't ask God for it! And if you ask, you won't receive it for you're asking with corrupt motives, seeking only to fulfill your own selfish desires. James 4:1-3
It seems there's a clear safeguard for the unity of believers.... serve, care for, and love others. It seems so simple, and it seems nearly impossible at the same time. Let's focus on the simplicity of it. What can you do for someone in need today? Go and do it; and, in the process, let's pray serving spreads.
God, here we are AGAIN praying for unity in the body of Christ like the first church experienced. Our preferences shouldn't divide. Differences of opinion over issues that aren't related to salvation should not separate us. Selfish ambition shouldn't cause us to sacrifice unity. Help us, Jesus! We need the power of your Holy Spirit to rise up and draw us together in love, grace, and strength. Amen.
