Week 4: Wednesday | What is Community?

Read: Acts 2:42-47

In Acts 2 and 5 we see that the Christian community “found favor with all the people” and that they were held in high regard by all who watched their lives together. So often we think that the conversion process is dependent upon our individual witness, but the scriptures are clear…it was about THEM!

The power of they, them, and we

For the church in Thessalonica, people heard about their joy, their faith, and how they collectively turned from idols to serve the living God. Paul tells them that their common story actually “echoed” throughout the entire region. Likewise, Paul reminded the Corinthian communities that God “always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him. For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved…” (2 Corinthians 2:14-15)

Their common struggle was evident to all: They shared their food, their homes, and spontaneous life experiences together. Most importantly, they shared mission. Because of their common commitment to prioritize God’s mission to the world, they were determined, consistent, hospitable, and gave priority to the community over their individual needs. The problem?

We want to protect our time and prioritize our agendas. We deal with isolation and get sucked into a pace of life which leaves no time for intentional community.

Journal/Text Question: What do you maybe need to give up for community?

Prayer Starter: Jesus, is my pace of life what you have called me to live?