Build Up Our Communities Acts 2:40-47

Peter warned and pleaded with the people of Israel. “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation!” How many years ago was that? That sounds like the same message we’re hearing today. Are we living in a corrupt and indecent generation again, or still? All these years and we haven’t figured out how to fix it? Weren’t we given another chance to start over when the floods came? Why do we keep gravitating toward evil? If God is so strong and mighty, why does it seem satan is winning? Why are we believers the minority? WHY IS THIS SO HARD?! I have lots more questions than answers!

A majority of this scripture comes under the heading of The Fellowship of the Believers. It appears that if we belong to a safe little church community, we can get together, be baptized, do good things for others, praise God, and in turn enjoy everlasting life in his favor. That’s pretty comfortable, but ignorant don’t you think? Oh yes, I’d prefer to dream about how I am doing all the right things here on earth and will one day hear those humbling words. “Well done good and faithful servant,” but something tells me it’s going to take more than simply being part of a fellowship of believers.

My church offers many small groups, ministries, and serving opportunities around the world that are very organized and well executed. I love that about the church, because my brain is not always systematic—you can verify that with my husband. However, this may not be for everyone. I am not comfortable in large overly organized systems, so simply take direction from the message painted above the foyer as I exit the sanctuary each Sabbath. It reads, “You are now entering the mission fields.” I do believe that all the world is a mission field. Whether organized or not, we are called to minister to, and be an example for others. Perhaps it’s a neighbor, co-worker, or even your child’s “friend” who you would prefer had not entered into your life at all. Stepping outside of our fellowship circle may not be comfortable, but it can make a difference in this world, one heart at a time.

Read the Acts 2:40-47 text here.