Together as One

Reading: Acts 2:43-47

Connecting Question

Who has been generous to you?

Who have you been generous with? How?

Prayer for Illumination

Lord, open our hearts and minds by the power of your Holy Spirit, that as the Scriptures are read and your Word is proclaimed, we may hear with joy what you say to us today. Amen.

Context

This week we conclude our series, Together As One. An examination of how the church first came together. How can Easter reflect this as we build community with each other, our community, and other Christians? When we trust in the Spirit and work TOGETHER anything is possible. What has our in-depth look at Acts chapter 2 taught you about community?

From Pastor Sarah Henrich at EntertheBible.org:

The story of Acts tracks the progress of the Christ-centered gospel from the earliest Jesus community in Jerusalem (following Jesus’ ascension) outward to parts of Judea, Samaria, Syria, Asia Minor, Greece, and Rome. Along the way, communities of believers were established and developed, baptized in the name of Jesus and gathered around prayer, Scripture study, meals, and care for one another.

Look at the Book

We have come to the end of our series! As you think about our time in Acts 2, what is an image that stands out that you can take with you?
In this final scene, we glimpse into the power of community in Christ. This is not just a group of friends, but a community of people rooted in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. As you read the passage, what image stands out to you?
Verse 43 starts with a powerful word. What “comes over the believers?” What does it mean?
What were the apostles doing in verse 43? What was causing that awe? What might examples look like?
What does verse 44 mean to you? How does Easter Church practice this?
Have you practiced verse 45? What did that look like? What might you be willing to sell things for?
There is a rhythm in verse 46 of life between two places. What are those places?
What are some places you frequent often? How can those places also be considered holy places?
Lutherans try to bring “home and temple” together. How do we practice faith at home?
Meals get special recognition; how are meals—and communion—meant to be celebrated?
What is the response in the larger community to how the Christians live in the last verse?
How are Christians today called to set an example? In what ways and places?
What would you like to talk about that we have not yet?

Taking it Home

Choose to break bread with someone who needs some cheer this week.

God of the promise, you call your people together into your one mission in Christ’s name. Make us brave, grant us peace, challenge our expectations, and empower us to truly follow your Spirit’s lead. You are our one God who calls us together as one people, and we thank you in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Grow Guide | Sept 1, 2024