Growing Through Acts (2)

"The whole congregation of believers was united as one--one heart, one mind! They didn't even claim ownership of their own possessions. No one said, "That's mine; you can't have it." They shared everything. The apostles gave powerful witness to the resurrection of the Master Jesus, and grace was on all of them. And so it turned out that not a person among them was needy. Those who owned fields or houses sold them and brought the price of the sale to the apostles and made an offering of it. The apostles then distributed it according to each person's need."--Acts 4:32-35 (MSG)

One heart plus one mind equals more generosity!
The early church shared everything. Do we live up to that standard? A few years ago the Fluvanna Review published the story of a local girl's unique birthday party. She asked her guests to bring a gift, but not for her. She asked them to bring a gift for the Fluvanna County Animal Shelter! Her generosity made a difference for homeless animals. Now that's sharing.

"They begged us again and again for the privilege of sharing..."--2 Corinthians 8:4

One heart plus one mind equals more love!
Christians are called to a life of sincere love. Show someone that you really love them. Send them a card. Invite them over for pizza and a movie. Go the extra mile for them!

"Don't just pretend to love others. Really love them..."--Romans 12:9

One heart plus one mind equals more service!
Lake Christian Church regularly conducts the PLACE Ministry workshop to help believers find a place of service. Not just any place, but a specific place of service that connects one's passion to ministry. Remember, when you're faithful in your service, you are doing it for Jesus (Colossians 3:23).

"God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another."--1 Peter 4:10

One heart plus one mind equals more growth!

Unity in the church fosters spiritual growth for the individual and numerical growth for the congregation. In the beginning of Acts 4, we're told "the number of believers now totaled about 5,000 men, not counting women and children" (v. 4). The church's significant numerical growth was a direct result of unified commitment to Jesus Christ. Then, at the end of Acts 4, we learn that Barnabas "sold a field he owned and brought the money to the apostles" (v. 37). His cheerful giving is evidence of his spiritual growth.

"As a result of your ministry, they will give glory to God. For your generosity to them and to all believers will prove that you are obedient to the Good News of Christ."--2 Corinthians 9:13