“And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.” Acts 2:42-47
It is a sweet and otherworldly benefit of the Christian life to share fellowship with other believers. In such company we are built up in faith and wisdom- personally, and as part of the growing Body. Our core is the living Word that feeds and nourishes us, and round it we move in orbit, in learning, service, sharing, conversation, providing for needs, and breaking bread together. The greater the connection to the Lord at center, the greater will be our joy and gladness in living out His ways among our spiritual siblings. As we contribute to and enrich one another, our lives and love become a magnetic pull to those outside to come in and join the saved.
How devoted are we to gathering together for teaching and fellowship? What causes us to resist the effort to go, get together, and give of ourselves through active ministry, listening, and corporate worship? Church is about so much more than listening to a sermon- that is a me-centered approach to church attendance. We’ve been made with much to offer. The Lord blesses the coming together of His children through worship, teaching, the sacraments, interaction, and holy affection.
What am I learning from the corporate study of God’s Word, and what difference is it making in my friendships, service, and day-to-day? With whom am I breaking bread through hospitality, sharing my bounty, or opening the living word to discuss the Bread of Life? Is this a priority? If not, what can I change to make it so? How and what am I contributing to meet the needs of others? What am I willing to sacrifice of time and resources for another’s comfort, help, or good? Is it my habit to open my home, go the extra mile? (Matthew 5:41; John 6:35,48; Romans 12:13; 2 Timothy 4:2)
How attractive is my Christian witness to the unbelieving world? By what specific ways am I drawing others in that the Lord would add numbers to His church? Am I consistently praying, and then living as an answer? (Luke 10:2; Romans 10:14; 2 Corinthians 2:14-15)
“We are one in the Spirit,
We are one in the Lord,
We will work with each other,
We will work side by side.
And they’ll know we are Christians
by our love.
We will walk with each other,
We will walk hand in hand,
And together we’ll spread the news
That God is in our land.
And they’ll know we are Christians
by our love.” ~Peter Scholes (1966)
Father, help me faithfully build up, break bread with, and bring in Your beloved children to enjoy the gladness of knowing and praising You.
As the rain and snow 