The Daily Nugget- How Church Should Be

Hi All

In the book of Acts we read about thousands making the decision to follow Jesus and be a part of His growing church(Acts 2).This is something that doesn't seem to happen in the modern church era but why? The reason the early church grew and popularity exploded is because the focus was on Jesus. This is the major difference between the early church and the modern church. The early church was all about Jesus and embracing His two main principles of loving others and loving God. Sadly the “modern church” is about worshipping Jesus from a distance, following man-made rules and entertaining. There is only hope for the world when the church puts others before itself by serving and reaching out to the needy just as Jesus did.

Be Blessed And Encouraged

How Church Should Be

32 Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common. 33 And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all. 34 Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for all who were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold, 35 and laid them at the apostles’ feet; and they distributed to each as anyone had need.

36 And Joses, who was also named Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated Son of Encouragement), a Levite of the country of Cyprus, 37 having land, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet.

(Acts 4:32-37)

When we read the early chapters of Acts, we catch glimpses of what the early Jerusalem church was like.The first snapshot we are given can be found in Acts 2:42-47 where we read of 3000 being saved and their commitment to fellowship,breaking of bread,praying and praising God.They would also ensure that nobody was in need even selling possessions if required and sharing goods with one another.

Our passage today gives us more insight as to how the early church operated, as we read about the togetherness shown(Acts 4:32) and the generosity that existed(Acts 4:32,34,35) to ensure none of the brethren were in need. The people of the early Jerusalem church had an “open hands” policy whereby brothers and sisters would share as needs required.This was exemplified by Barnabas who sold his land and gave the proceeds to the apostles.(Acts 4:37). How wonderful it would be if the modern church would embrace those values.