“All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord’s Supper), and to prayer. A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity—all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved.”
Acts 2:42–47
I (Nikki) was once challenged with this question: If someone were to remove all the things you say about your faith and the overtly religious things you do (attend church, pray, and so on) would there be enough evidence in your lifestyle to convict you in court that you are a Christian?
I thought about that. I looked at my budget and my receipts to see how I spent my money. I looked at my calendar and removed items like “Bible study” and wondered if my faith affected how I spent my time and with whom I met. Is there something in there that is so unusual that the only explanation for the evidence is “She must be a Christian”? A picture of the radical community of the early church in Acts became a model for my group of friends in college. Could we also be so committed to God’s people that it would affect our daily life, how we used our possessions, and who we hung out with?
I still think about that challenge when I make major life decisions. Do my choices in my career, living situations, finances, and relationships make logical sense apart from God? Or are there some truly risky things, like radical acts of love or sacrifice, that could only point to the existence of a God who is present and working in our world today?
Reflect:
Read Acts 2:42–47 and consider the example of the early Christians. How do you desire to further integrate your faith and your daily life?
Pray:
Silently consider this question of “evidence,” asking God to convict you regarding needed areas of growth.
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