"They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. Awe came upon everyone, because many wonders and signs were being done by the apostles. All who believed were together and had all things in common; they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceeds to all, as any had need. Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having the goodwill of all the people. And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved." Acts 2:42-47
In our Second Mile people series, we are investigating how the early church lived out the teachings of Jesus and went not just one mile for those around us, but two. It’s challenging to remain present with people, but we see Jesus’ presence as overwhelming acts of kindness to those around him. In this week’s message, pastor Amy Perez gives us four ways that being a people of presence through community can transform our daily lives.
- We are a highly individualistic society. Our culture values people who are self-reliant and independent.
- But in the early church, the strong-culture society valued self-sacrifice, generosity and reliability. Church was more than just a place to get needs met but a community.
- Jesus’ vision of kingdom come is this: Family.
- God’s vision for community is not transactional but transformational.
- Community that Costs
- The cost of true community is commitment.
- The community in the Acts church surrendered wealth, personal preferences, and time to make room for those around them.
- “They are planted in the house of the Lord; they flourish in the courts of our God.” Psalm 92:13
- Being planted is about consistency, not convenience. A tree is not designed to be uprooted.
- Transformation does not need to happen in one big moment, but in small steps of obedience.
- Community that Heals
- Relationships can be places of wounding, and yet they are also the very place of our healing.
- It’s in the context of community that shame is peeled away and we can experience new life.
- “Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2
- Community that Transforms
- It’s really easy for friendships to remain surface level, but with the help of the Holy Spirit we can show up for people and help transform their lives.
- Transformational community contains relational nutrients. Just like your diet needs specific nutrients, our relationships need ingredients to thrive.
- Community that Changes the World
- “And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.” Acts 2:42-47
- We are called to invite people into a personal relationship with God and then into your family, your table.
Dinner Party Questions
1. What is the current cost in your life to step deeper into community within the local church?
2. What areas in your life are you needing to grow or heal most specifically and how can you see community helping in that area?
3. What’s the most practical next step you can take in committing more to community
