Psa. 84:2 π Jn. 10:16 π Jn. 17:21 π Acts 1:14 π Acts 2:46 π Acts 4:32 π 1 Cor. 12:13 π Gal. 5:20
In contemporary Christianity we have tried to emulate the Church of the book of Acts, without realizing that, to try and copy or to try and equal this outpouring of God’s Spirit, we have operated, in most cases, via the works of the flesh. ( Gal. 5:20; top ) Emulation is classified with idolatry, seditions and variance, which is to promote discord and dissension. These also are the works of the flesh. So, in our haste and impatience to see a restoration of the book of Acts, we have used human power; and so the great commission fails to be fulfilled, as the present day church has tried to implement God’s plan, void of the necessary grace. This disobedience must be replaced by a total dedication to please only God. Then our obedience will bring His perfect will, and the end-time church will exceed the former.
The key to the first Church is described in at least nine different Scriptures as “being in one accord,” “continuing daily in one accord,” “with singleness of heart,” “a multitude who believed were of one heart and one soul.” ( Acts 1:14 , 2:46 , 4:32; top ) In this complete harmony they readily shared all they possessed, so there was none that lacked anything among them. Today one is accused of lack of faith if he lacks anything, instead of us fulfilling the lack. The first sin entered this early body when a portion was held back by Ananias and Sapphira, and the only product of any sin is death.
The fear that this early church lived in was the healthy fear of displeasing God and, as a result, many healings, signs and wonders caused many to believe; and these further shared their possessions, plus the Lord added to the church daily.
In order to live in the necessary fear and presence of God requires a heart cry comparable to David’s: “My heart and my flesh cries out for the living God.” ( Psa. 84:2; top ) Then, when we have established this kind of a relationship with God, we will understand the futility of God putting new wine in old wineskins.
“That they all may be one, that the world may believe.” ( Jn. 17:21; top )
“…There shall be one flock and one Shepherd.” ( Jn. 10:16; top )
He is coming for one body.
“In one spirit we were all baptized into one body.” ( 1 Cor. 12:13; top )
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