Part 5: A Brand New Family
NEW AND IMPROVED
PART 5
Acts 2:40-47
THREE ASPECTS OF THE NEW FAMILY:
“Peter replied, ‘Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.’” Acts 2:38 (NIV)
SALVATION.
“Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.” Acts 2:41 (NIV)
We are adopted into the family of believers by the grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ.
“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common.” Acts 2:42-44 (NIV)
DEVOTED COMMUNITY.
“All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.” Acts 2:44-45 (NIV)
Christian community should be characterized by biblical teaching, consistent fellowship, and loving generosity.
“Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” Acts 2:46-47 (NIV)
Growth.
The family of believers should increase in number and each member should increase in likeness to Christ.
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV)
MY NEXT STEP TODAY IS:
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This Week’s Reading Plan and Podcast:
YouVersion® Bible App Reading Plan:
“The Family of God” (5 Days)Podcast: “The New Family”