2 Jul Communities of Fellowship

2 July 2023

COMMUNITIES OF FELLOWSHIP

All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had. (Acts 4:32, Recommend reading the full text 4: 32-37)

The ultimate plan of God for the Church is to be united. Apostle Paul talks about this ‘mystery’ in Ephesians 3:6, that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus. But historically, as we dissect, we must acknowledge that a lot of divisions and fractions ensued in Church due to the lack of unity. God, in his divine will, wants his children to be united, exhibiting a great mark of a flourishing community. One such example of a flourishing community that follows his will can be seen in Acts 4:32. It states Now the whole group of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one claimed private ownership of any possessions, but everything they owned was held in common. This community visualises the concept of David, “How good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell together in unity.” The setting in which God works is of love and unity.

When God is in the community or the head of a community, individuals no longer seek personal interests; instead, they care about what God wants them to testify for him in the world. Therefore, in the early Church, many were willing to give up all the assets God gave them and ultimately put themselves in God’s hands. That’s how we can tell it was a community flourishing with unity and fellowship. There should be no schism in the body, but the members should have the same care for one another. The high priestly prayer of Jesus in John 17:21 also underscores that they may all be one. As you, Father, are in me and I am in you, may they also be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me.

A further standpoint of this flourishing community was that they all shared their possessions equally. Everyone forfeited for the good of others. The outcome of this unity was that the apostles continued to spread the gospel. From time to time, someone would bring the money from selling their home or land and lay it at the apostle’s feet in a wonderful act of sacrifice and faith. Then the Apostles would have it given to those who had a need. This also echoes the incident back in Exodus 35 and 36, when the Tabernacle was being constructed. A display of unity among the people was witnessed, as Moses had to restrain people from bringing in more gifts for building the Tabernacle. They all worked together under the leadership of Besalel, Ohaliab and Moses. Such a great display of a flourishing community. Let this unity in a community be visibly characterised by sharing the resources.

prayer

Triune God, the giver and sustainer of our lives, we beseech your help in equipping ourselves to demonstrate unity in fellowship. Help us to be good stewards of the gifts and talents that You have bestowed upon us. Help us to be sensitive to the needs of the Church and our communities. In Jesus’ name. Amen!

for further thought

What are some practical ways in which we can demonstrate unity in fellowship amid the deeply polarised communities? How can we cultivate a culture of fellowship?

Ebin Thankachan

Council for World Mission