November 8
Acts 3:1-5:42
Over the next few days, we will find ourselves working through the book of Acts. It received this name because it recounts the acts of the apostles. After Jesus’ resurrection, we see these early followers of Jesus living out the new life they have received. The church was marked by the miracles of the apostles, the proclamation of Jesus, joy in the face of suffering and persecution, unity, and generosity. This sounds like a perfect environment. This sounds like all the church is supposed to be. Yet during this powerful work of God, we read about Ananias and Sapphira. As far as we know, two believers, who lied to God and the church about how generous they were. They obviously wanted to look good in the eyes of others (see Matthew 6:1-4) so they exaggerated the extent of their giving.
This story reminds us, that even in the best of circumstances, the church consists of redeemed sinners. We are a body of believers who have been justified but have not yet been glorified. Therefore, we must do all we can to be sanctified, become more like Jesus, and represent him well to the world. Our church is filled with imperfect people, but thankfully, we have a perfect God!
Father God, thank you for the gift of the church. Help me to pursue Christ-centered relationships and seek to make you known to the world. Amen.
Which one of the descriptions of the early church mentioned above (joy in suffering, proclaiming Jesus, etc.) do you need to most grow?
Over the next few days, we will find ourselves working through the book of Acts. It received this name because it recounts the acts of the apostles. After Jesus’ resurrection, we see these early followers of Jesus living out the new life they have received. The church was marked by the miracles of the apostles, the proclamation of Jesus, joy in the face of suffering and persecution, unity, and generosity. This sounds like a perfect environment. This sounds like all the church is supposed to be. Yet during this powerful work of God, we read about Ananias and Sapphira. As far as we know, two believers, who lied to God and the church about how generous they were. They obviously wanted to look good in the eyes of others (see Matthew 6:1-4) so they exaggerated the extent of their giving.
This story reminds us, that even in the best of circumstances, the church consists of redeemed sinners. We are a body of believers who have been justified but have not yet been glorified. Therefore, we must do all we can to be sanctified, become more like Jesus, and represent him well to the world. Our church is filled with imperfect people, but thankfully, we have a perfect God!
Father God, thank you for the gift of the church. Help me to pursue Christ-centered relationships and seek to make you known to the world. Amen.
Which one of the descriptions of the early church mentioned above (joy in suffering, proclaiming Jesus, etc.) do you need to most grow?
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