Bible Study - Acts 2: 42-47

No man is an island

So often today we hear complaints about the breakdown of society and family life. Preoccupation with self and one's own rights does not leave room for others. But there is another way.

Read Acts chapter 2 verses 42-47

The early church is a wonderful example to us. We might not feel we should sell everything and put it in a common pot, but we may feel the desire to share in the enthusiasm and exhilaration of those times. We can see it happen around us today, as individuals with a common need band together for mutual support and encouragement and then go on to achieve much more than they could alone.

The key is in v 42. The believers devoted themselves to being enlightened, spending time together, breaking bread, and prayer, with the result that the transformation of their lives was noticed by many. Each facet is important. Within the church we have these opportunities. Teaching is available from sermons and bible reading, fellowship from services and home groups, breaking bread at communion and prayer at prayer meetings or with a prayer partner, as well as private prayer. For the early Christians, it was a daily activity, not just once a week. It became a way of life.

As Christians, we are called to spread the good news and reach out to others. Since "Practice makes Perfect", why not try practising first with fellow Christians? We will be better able then to reach out to those whom God wants to save.

Questions

What can the church do today to mirror what happened in the early church?

What part can you play in this?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, make us a united community of believers you can use to save others.

Norbury Parish Church, Hazel Grove, Stockport, Cheshire. Telephone: 0161-483 8640