Acts 2:44-47 Unity in the Community

(CIT) Luke, the church historian, gives us a look into the life of the early church and the unity that is evident among the members of the early church.

(MOS) - We must distinguish between unity and uniformity. The former is voluntary; the latter is compelled. The former is an inner condition; the latter is outward form. Unity must be the condition created in us by the Holy Spirit as we follow him in a common goal and purpose—to make effective God’s redeeming work in Christ to the ends of the earth and until he comes again.

Hobbs, Herschel H. My Favorite Illustrations. Nashville, TN: Broadman Press, 1990. Print.

(44-45) UNITY is essential for growth and maturity.

saying the same thing...

to share with one another equitably

Therefore make every effort to come together more frequently to give thanks and glory to18 God. For when you meet together frequently, the powers of Satan are overthrown and his destructiveness is nullified by the unanimity of your faith.

UNITY was demonstrated in their FAITH & their FINANCES (45)

“they start to sell off property and pool the money to help those in need”

(illustration) The CHURCH NEEDS TO STAY TOGETHER! The story is told of lady was seen drowning.

Faw, Chalmer Ernest. Acts. Scottdale, PA: Herald Press, 1993. Print. Believers Church Bible Commentary.

18 to give thanks… to: or possibly for the Eucharist… of.

Holmes, Michael William. The Apostolic Fathers: Greek Texts and English Translations. Updated ed. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books, 1999. Print.

(46) COMMITMENT & CONSISTENCY are essential to growth and maturity.

They were consistent in meeting together (in-person worship; at present we have virtual worship (So please acknowledge your presence on Facebook Live and YouTube Live.)

(47a) CELEBRATION is essential to growth and maturity.

The early church had an attitude of thankful and joyful worship...

Barry, John D. et al. Faithlife Study Bible. Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2012, 2016. Print.