Act Your Faith

"So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.”- Acts 6:7

At one time or another you have likely been hit with the zinger and stinger, “Act your age!” Someone (who hopefully knows us) calls us out for acting immature, selfish, and downright childish. We are reminded that we should have known and done better in that given situation. Not only did the Apostle Paul regularly remind the Early Church to grow up, he was also mindful to regulate himself. In 1 Corinthians 13:11 he writes, “When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me.”

During Vision Month our teaching focus and faith model comes from the Book of Acts. I have been reading and reflecting on the BIRTH of the Church, the BOLDNESS of the believers, and the BEAUTY of their shared life and mission. Throughout this twenty-eight-chapter narrative we see new life popping up everywhere and real needs being met by the power of the Spirit and the practice of the Saints!

One of the many examples of this exemplary faith comes from the famous account in Acts 2:44-47, “All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 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 favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” Within that mouthful description is a definition of how the Church is to live out faith, not just in ancient times, troubling times, or peaceful times, but all the time!

As we continue in Vision Month, envision with me what ACTING OUR FAITH would look like, release in our midst, and communicate to the outside world:

1) When we are united in heart and mission, there is a defeating of the enemy’s tactic to divide us by keeping us in competition and conflict with one another. This means LOVE WINS!

2) When we are generous in our giving, there would be a filling of the gaps and daily need people have and our church would have ample resources each month to help individuals, invest in ministries, cover operating costs, and most importantly advance the Gospel. This means NEEDS OUR MET!

3) When we are passionate about Jesus, there is a burning desire and boldness that comes over us to spread Christ’s love and share the Good News story whenever we have opportunity. This means PEOPLE ARE SAVED AND THE CHURCH GROWS!

Let’s grow up! Let’s do our part! Let’s be the Church! Let’s see Miracle Results!