ACTS 2:42 - A short thread...

"They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer."

These are the New Testament practises that differentiate followers of Jesus from everyone else.

THEY
Acts 2:42 is written of the very first church, Church 1.0, which was born from the Holy Spirits outpouring at Pentecost; an eclectic blend of disciples who had followed and been with Jesus, and those who had recently heard the Gospel proclaimed in Jerusalem and responded in faith.

DEVOTED
These believers were known for their devotion. Their devotion was tangible, observable and demonstrable, primarily through 4 distinct practises.

People observe what we truly love from our actions and our habits. Devotion is more than cold obedience, but born from the heart.

THEMSELVES
Each disciple had a personal decision to make... "Can I devote myself to the rhythm of this new community as they worship Jesus together?" - Each of us face the same decision today!

Jesus forms and reforms us in the company of other disciples... each of us together in meaningful community, not in isolation.

APOSTLES TEACHING
This early church came under Godly leaders who had themselves been formed and fashioned by Jesus.

They were a community living life under the authority of Scripture, whose teaching revealed the sending (and sent) nature of Father, Son & Spirit to the world.

FELLOWSHIP
Fellowship is a catalyst to freedom - When our masks are removed, we experience knowness through vulnerability, with no fear of judgement.

In fellowship we discover new things about God and ourselves as we each share our stories, lived experiences and unique perspectives.

BREAKING OF BREAD
There is dynamic power sitting around the table with Jesus. Shared meals break barriers & promote inclusion.

The heart of communion is community and union (with God and with one another).

Deep healing occurs when we enter communion together with sincere and unveiled hearts.

PRAYER
The prayers of the early church were focused beyond themselves. They were a people who were trusting God in grace for today and hope for tomorrow.

The Spirit led in prayer, bringing direction, discernment and a sense of purposeful unity (it seemed good to us and the Spirit).

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ACTS 2:42 - A short thread..

"They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, the fellowship, to the breaking of bread & to prayer."

These are the New Testament practises that differentiate followers of Jesus from everyone else.

— Gordon Watson (@gordonjwatson) August 7, 2021