Read Acts 2:43-45
43 A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. 44 And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. 45 They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need.
Discover
1. Where did all the believers meet?
2. What did they share with each other?
3. What steps did they take to share in this way?
Respond
In these verses, we see a glimpse of the type of community the early church experienced. A key trait was their devotion to sharing what they had, which involved sacrificing their wants for the sake of others. While they displayed the values of life-giving relationship, they also lived out what it means to be a disciple.
A disciple isn’t simply a learner; it’s someone being formed into someone new or different. We’re all disciples of whatever we give the most time, energy, and resources to. In the early church’s case, they gave their time, energy, and resources to God and each other, sharing freely. We’re called to do the same.
Here are some next steps you can take:
How You Can Pray
Thank God for the ways He has provided in your life. Confess where you’ve held onto your time and possessions as your own rather than seeking ways to share with others. Ask God to open your eyes to see opportunities to give your time, energy, and resources to someone else who may be struggling.
What You Can Do
Three of the biggest revealers of our willingness to share is our bank accounts, calendars, and possessions. Have you been storing up one of these to a point that’s unhealthy, not looking for ways to help others? Take a step this week to share something of value with someone in your church community who may be in need. If no one comes to mind, consider giving to the mission of Traders Point, where your resources will be used to help others know God, both here at home and across the globe.