Monday, July 13, 2009
Acts 4:32-33 And the congregation of those who believed were of one heart and soul; and not one of them claimed that anything belonging to him was his own, but all things were common property to them. And with great power the apostles were giving testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and abundant grace was upon them all.
INCLUDE THE RESURRECTION
This congregation was united. In their frequent gatherings they were joyful. They were concerned for each other even to the point that people would voluntarily sell their possessions to provide for those in need. So where did this amazing unity come from? What drew these people together into such an intimate, compassionate fellowship? Their unity came from the resurrection of Christ. The first Christian congregation was what it was because the resurrection of Christ drew them together and united them like nothing else could.
If you read through the first six chapters of Acts you'll find the apostles preaching what we call the Gospel, or the Good News of Jesus, a number of times. That Good News says that Jesus died so that our sins could be forgiven and that all who trust in Him have this forgiveness. But if you go back and look, the apostles don't stop at Christ's death in the sinner's place. They include His resurrection from the dead in their message (Acts 2:32, 3:15, 4:10). The apostles didn't leave out the resurrection of Christ because it was proof that Christ's message was true. He was the Savior that God Himself had sent. All who look to Him for forgiveness are forgiven. And with sins forgiven, they are also set free from sin's ruling over them in life.
The resurrection means the same thing for me and you. If Christ is risen, our sins were paid for, and by faith we have received full pardon before God. When you share the Good News of forgiveness with people, don't forget to include the resurrection. It is key. Without it, the cross means nothing. With it, the cross means sure peace with God.
