” All who believed were together and had all things in common; 45 they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceeds[j] to all, as any had need. 46 Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home[k]and ate their food with glad and generous[l] hearts, 47 praising God and having the goodwill of all the people. And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.” (Acts 2: 44-47)
No one ever said it would be easy.
Living in community is no piece of cake. We all have quirks, personality types, opinions, back stories, temptations….Why do we expect the church to be absent of conflict?
Anyone who has spent time in Christian community is aware of the situations that give root to arguments and it isn’t always over what would be expected.
“That’s not how we do it.”
“__________ministry (fill in the blank) is the most important”
“I only like _______________ music.”
“The money should be used for ___________________”
“______________talked too long”
“Will everyone eat that?”
So, if Christian community involves conflict, why would anyone want to join it?
They witnessed perseverance and praise.
The believers continued to meet together. Acknowledging disagreements. Acknowledging the cultural, age and gender mix. Acknowledging varied maturity in understanding of discipleship.
Who does that?
People that acknowledge that relationship in community can only happen because of who infuses it.
Heaven intersects Earth.
That’s worthy of praise. And participation.
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I was nodding my head with all your statements. I’m so glad that the church perseveres and can be praised. The Acts 2 church is such a beautiful goal and image to work towards.
Isn’t it?