Acts 2 & The Quarantined Church
Whenever we read Acts 2:42 we see a great example of a vibrant church. A church on one accord, with all things in common. It’s lovely to see and many congregations around the world use Acts 2 as a template of doing life with one another. It’s a balance of fellowship and faithful study of the Word. With everything as we once knew temporarily changing to virtual this, and social distancing that, one would ask how do you hold fast to or even embrace it in times like these?
I’m encouraged and reminded that the example they left was not just inside the four walls but outside too. With gatherings restricted of over 10 people, we have to get pretty creative on how to still connect and engage during this time.
Today I’m going to share some modern day ideas while using Acts 2:42-47 as a template.
Doctrine
42 And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers.
We can continue online in a variety of ways. We could host zoom bible studies and book clubs. Tune into Sunday service live streams. Engage in daily devotionals with one another on line or by phone. We even have bible app reading plans that we can share with one another and complete together. Each strategy helps us to stay connected, and grow together.
Staying connected in prayer and fellowship is important We can do this by doing prayer calls to pray over the current pandemic or pray for personal prayer requests. If you have a large church body, maybe praying with your ministry team might be more feasible. It would be awesome that even though you might not get to sing, dance or serve together right now, you can still pray together with the members of your team. And last but not least…
Celebrate, still! If you know of someone’s birthday, anniversary or graduation date coming up, host a zoom party for them! Send a baby shower gift to the mom that had to cancel her baby shower or the bride to be who had to cancel her wedding. The thought in these tough times really does count! Don’t forget to check in with people.
As Anyone Had Need
43 Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. 44 Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, 45 and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need.
Though we are social distancing a lot (as we should) in order to keep others and ourselves safe, we can still find ways to help in times of need. We can give to places accepting donations. Offer to provide homework help for the kids who are now learning from home. We can also donate to local relief funds. Don’t forget to still give and tithe to your local church so that nothing is lacking when we are all able to return again.
Added To The Church Daily
46 So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.
Promote, promote, promote!
If there is a live stream, special announcement, giving link, etc. promote it with others because you never know what that share can lead to! Someone might find their church home because of it.
I truly believe that this time has been very fruitful for the church despite us not being able to physically meet. There has been more online services than ever before and with more people working, learning and staying at home, the gospel is more and more accessible. I believe if we continue to be creative like we have been and use these virtual resources to reach many, many could come into the kingdom because of it.
By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:35
Until Next Time,
Jess