The Joy of the Christian Lifestyle

An obviously popular passage among us, and in my opinion one of the key texts in all of the New Testament is found in Acts 2:42-47. Peter has just preached the gospel to those in Jerusalem, and as a result, the listeners were pricked in their hearts (v.37). This conviction led them to ask what they needed to do to be saved by this gospel. Peter responded by telling them to repent and be baptized in order for their sins to be remissed. This is very consistent of course, with Ananias' words to Saul in Acts 22:16, when he said "Rise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on his name." Acts 2:41 tells us that those who received Peter's word were indeed baptized and that they were added by the Lord to the church as a result (cf. v.47).

It is what we see taking place after this that now becomes so important for us as God's children today.

"And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved" (Acts 2:47).

We understand that these are not precise commands that involve crossing "t's" and dotting "i's." Rather it is an example of how the early Christians lived. And therefore, we understand that these are some principles laid forth that are nevertheless expected of us because we are Christians:

• Devotion to teachings of God's word
• Devotion to fellowshp
• Devotion to prayer
• Devotion to unity
• Devotion to being there for one another and helping each other out
• Devotion to worshipping together
• Devotion to being joyful and excited about Christianity
• Devotion to being generous and having a benevolent spirit
• Devotion to good reputations with God and man (even among those in our communities)

And we see throughout the book of Acts that they consistently lived this way. Obviously, some had their shortcomings, as evidenced by the letters to various churches and individuals that comprise the New Testament. But by and large, there is no denying that this is a good model as to how we should carry ourselves as citizens in God's kingdom; that is to live joyfully seeking to introduce to others God's kingdom and His way of righteousness. We do this by way of teaching of course, but also by way of example (Matthew 5:13-16). And in that process, it seems that in addition to the fact that God loves us and is with us (Mark 10:27; Philippians 4:13; Romans 8:28-31), the love that we actually have for each other (John 13:35; 1 Corinthians 13; Ephesians 3:17; 1 Thessalonians 3:12; 1 Peter 4:8) is what is supposed to carry us through and keep us going, even in difficult times.

I don't know where I would be without brethren and the relationships with which God has so blessed me.

Also, one of the more intriguing aspects of Acts 2:47 in my opinion, is the favor they had with man. Our reputations as Christians individually, and as the church collectively, are so important to our cause. We will never enjoy the success of adding to the kingdom if our respective communities do not see us actually living the gospel in love and unity. May each of us have as our priority maintaining good and positive reputations!