Day 20: Acts 2:46-47

Read Acts 2:46-47

Helpful Background Information: 

• In Acts 2:46-47, we see a beautiful portrait of what Christ-centered fellowship in the early church looked like. They were immensely unified. They shared their possessions, they cared for each other’s spiritual and physical needs, they devoted themselves to true doctrine, they shared meals → This unity in Christ by the Spirit brought these earlier Christ-followers immense joy. And they made this a regular practice, for they intentionally devoted themselves to these times of fellowship. 

• When believers practice Sabbath, we do not sabbath alone. Sabbathing is not only resting alone, but sabbath time should include this healthy, refreshing fellowship with other believers. 

• What is important to note about this passage is that their sharing of possessions was optional; these Christians were willing to give away much of their possessions to help their fellow believers. In no way is this text endorsing a mandatory giving away of one’s private property.  

Reflection Questions: 

• In what ways can you fellowship and rest with fellow believers when you are observing a sabbath rest? How can the methods of fellowship the early church used enrich and strengthen your time with fellow Christ-followers? 

• In 2 Thessalonians 2:15, Paul writes, “So then, brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold to the traditions you were taught, whether by what we said or what we wrote.” What is the only record of apostolic teaching we have today? How does devoting your time of sabbath rest to this record of teaching encourage you? 

• What motivated these early Christ followers to willingly share their possessions with one another and meet other people’s needs? How can this motivation encourage you to willingly meet the needs of others? (See 2 Corinthians 9:7-9 if you need help answering!)