Good morning,
How did God transform the disciples of Christ? They were baptized by the Holy Ghost. Who stepped up and preached the first sermon of the church age? Peter did. It is found in Acts 2:14-47. We will focus on Peter’s sermon.
Peter’s Preaching at Pentecost
The commitment of the new believers (2:42-47)
42 And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.43 And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.44 And all that believed were together, and had all things common;45 And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.46 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,47 Praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
So, did their decision have an impact on their lives? Yes it did.
There are six things that characterize their changed lives.
First, they obey God’s word. “And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine…” The apostle’s doctrine is the word God passed down to the apostles. These new believers were willing to learn and obey.
Second, they fellowshipped together.
Third, prayer. They learned and then practiced prayer.
Fourth, they sold all they had and had all things in common. They were committed.
Fifth, they ministered to the saints.
Sixth, they praised God.
When they believed in God’s word, they turned away from their old lives and turned entirely to Christ.
Are we that committed? These were brand new believers. They came knowing nothing. They gave up everything. They turned their world upside down for Christ.
How about us? We have extensive years of Bible teaching, no real persecution, lavish churches in which to worship, ample transportation, and Bibles to transmit the word of God to whoever will listen.
But will we go?
Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com
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