Acts of Inspiration

Acts 2:42-47

The last few weeks I have been reading the book of Acts and for whatever reason these chapters have absolutely come to life. The book of Acts literally details the birth of the church as we know it. As I read through Chapter 2 I saw some simple, but powerful concepts. After Peter’s massive altar call we see the church begin to take shape.

What characterized the birth of the church? 

Immediately, we find the believers (many of which had just received Christ after Peter’s first message) beginning to build strong relationships. They spent time together, ate together, and prayed together. This group formed crazy close bonds, so much so that Acts 2:45 says they sold everything they had and shared it with one another and those in need. When I read that text I had a new understanding that I have never had before. They were making commitments they could not turn back on. Every church planter will have one of those moments. That moment when you make up your mind you are going to follow God and fulfill what He has placed in your heart. At some point you cross that “point of no return.”

As I sat in service this past weekend at 7 Hills Church (my church) I heard God speak something to me as clear as I have ever heard His voice. He said, “If I give you people will you love them?” At that moment tears filled my eyes and I was overwhelmed by the question. If you know me, you know that tears for me occur about as often as Haley’s Comet. My immediate response was YES! Yes God, I will take care of those who you place in my care. I will find the time to build close and loving relationships with your people. I will take time to dig deep in Your Word and deliver messages that allow you to speak into their hearts. I will make a commitment I cannot turn back on. I am yours!

Acts 5:16

16 Also a multitude gathered from the surrounding cities to Jerusalem, bringing sick people and those who were tormented by unclean spirits, and they were all healed.

It didn’t take long for this type of commitment to produce results.  In Acts 5:16 we see a massive crowd gathered at one the disciple’s meetings. This verse tells us that EVERY person that came sick or perplexed was healed. Can you imagine how great the presence of God must have been at that meeting? I believe God still wants to touch people and to build the types of relationships the early church modeled. I say why not? Let’s go all in and do something special for Him!