What
is the best group of friends you have ever hung around with? What made that
group so special?
Read
about a group that holds a special place in my heart. This group’s story can be
found in the book of Acts. “They joined with the
other believers and devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and fellowship,
sharing in the Lord's Supper and in prayer. A deep sense of awe came over
them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and
wonders. And all the believers met together constantly and shared
everything they had. They sold their possessions and shared the proceeds
with those in need. They worshiped together at the Temple 2:42 -47 – New Living Translation).
This
group had their priorities straight! They loved Jesus, and in turn loved one
another. There was no posturing and no one thought themselves greater than
anyone else. When there was a need, this group responded. They shared what they
had. Some even sold their possessions to help others in need! Would you do
that?
Again,
they had their priorities straight. We come to church on Sundays and Wednesdays
and consider that a burden at times. These believers got together every day and
worshipped God at the Temple
What
was the secret of their success? Number one, they loved Jesus. In response to
their love for Jesus they submitted themselves to Biblical teaching every day.
Not only submitted themselves, but the Bible says they “devoted” themselves to
Biblical teachings. They spent intimate time together in “fellowship”. That
means that they shared their lives with one another; good times, struggles,
joy, and sorrow. Their lives were intertwined. Regularly, they shared the
Lord’s Supper. Sharing that sacred meal meant that they examined themselves and
remembered what the body and blood of Christ had done for them. Finally, they
prayed together. There cannot be many sentiments of superiority or feelings of
ill will between people who constantly pray together. I’d imagine they prayed
for each others needs. That means they had to be open and honest with one another.
I’d imagine they prayed God’s will be done, just as Jesus instructed believers
to do. That would mean they had to forsake their agendas.
The
result of such a lifestyle was that that group experienced the “goodwill of all the people” and that “the Lord added to their group those who were being saved”.
The community around that group was drawn to them. Actually, I believe God was
using this group of selfless servants to draw people to Himself.
Would
you like to be part of a group like that? What are you willing to sacrifice to
God to be in such a group? How similar is our youth group to that congregation
of Acts 2:42-47? What can you do to make our youth group be like that of the
early church? Are you willing to change your priorities?
I’d
love to be in a fellowship like that. I’d love to be in a group like that with
YOU!
Grace and peace to you from God the Father and Jesus
the Son,
Tim Bowes
Romans 12:1-2
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