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Summary: Christian Community

Jesus Mission was to re-establish a new kingdom. To put things right

We can’t do this without the help of the Holy Spirit

We as Christians bear witness to the power of God. Not just evangelising but living according to God’s principles.

It’s a very powerful witness when the strong aid the weak.  Early church was famous for it’s plan for social change. Gods and power are used differently.

Acts 2:32-47 New International Version - UK (NIVUK)

42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. 44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 46 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, 47 praising God and enjoying the favour of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.

These two passages (Scripture Reading and the above describe the Community)

1) In comparison to the Roman World, Christians did things very differently. No patronage but goods used for the good of the community.

Relationships are more important than possessions.

2) People are bonded by a new identity. Not by family or tribe

Christians dealt with inequality but not through making rules

Used Radical Generosity from the Strong to the weak. Engage with the Holy Spirit to decide how to use what you have.

God wants us to be generous with our resources. Money, skills, time, influence, labour and everyone gets to give.

Why do this why invest in the Community?

Because if we only invest in those who love us and are close to us, we fall into the

Matthew 5:43-48 New International Version - UK (NIVUK)

Love for enemies

43 ‘You have heard that it was said, “Love your neighbour[a] and hate your enemy.” 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46 If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? 47 And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? 48 Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

Acts 4:32-35 New International Version - UK (NIVUK)

32 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. 33 With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all 34 that there was no needy person among them. For from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales 35 and put it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to anyone who had need.