Scripture Reading…Acts 2:38-47
Devotion
Christianity is a taught religion. It requires thoughtful learning. We are “disciples” of Christ. Which means we listen to what He says and then we do it! Jesus said, “As it is written in the Scriptures, ‘They will all be taught by God.’ Everyone who listens to the Father and learns from him comes to me.” John 6:45. And the Holy Spirit inspired Paul to write, “And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. 7 Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.” Colossians 2:6-7 So Christianity is a taught religion. Christians are call ed to be knowledgeable and thoughtful about the teachings of Christ!
If we have learned anything from the Lord, through His word, we have learned to be loving. Christians must be known by their love, John 13:34-35. In fact, our love for God is illustrated, demonstrated and authenticated by our love for others. Love has a cohesive power to bring people together. Love promotes unity and opposes division. Love simply obeys the Lord in everything.
The strength of the church is dependent on you and I committing ourselves to the way of Jesus. And Jesus’ way must include His church. As our reading taught us, the Lord adds the saved to the church. There are no saved people that God hasn’t added to His church. What a beautiful family He has created in His love. Are you connected to your church family as you should be? What more could you do to be faithful to God and to His church?
CHALLENGE FOR THE DAY
Walk at least one mile today.
Respond to the online community.
You know that our church wants to help people. So, today’s challenge is for you to get that message to at least one person. Tell them, “My church wants to help you take the next step with Jesus.” And ask them what the next step looks like for them. Once you have that information, invite your friend to church, and assure them, this is a church that wants to help them, because we have been helped so much by the Lord!