41 So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls.42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43 And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. 44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. 45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.
ACTS 2:41-47
The people’s responses to Peter’s sermon were believed, baptized, and devoted themselves. Accepting Christ and getting baptized are great responses to God’s salvation, but they are only the beginning of Christian life. How do we grow in our spiritual life? In the early church, these brothers and sisters set a great model for us to learn from. After they believe and get baptized, they also –
devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.” (v42)
Some versions of the Bible use the words “continued steadfastly” instead of “devoted,” which gives a stronger sense of persistence and action. As they continued steadfastly
- -in the apostle’s teaching, which is pursuing the truth of God;
- -in fellowship, in sharing with one another;
- -in the breaking of the bread – remembering what the Lord has done;
- -in the prayers
These actions they devoted themselves nurtured their own spiritual growth and brought growth in the whole church. As a result, God blessed them with more saved souls! So today, as you draw near to God by faith, reading His words, going to fellowship, participating in communion, and praying to God, don’t see it as just another meeting or just another fellowship. Don’t underestimate the value, the power, and the blessings you will receive by doing what you are doing daily or weekly. We have all experienced the blessings before. They are not merely routines we take. They are actions we take out of a devoted heart and faith. Our Father honors them, and He will bless us as He promised.
Dear Lord, it is your love that compels me. I love You because you first loved me. Thank you for treasuring every little thing I do for you.
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