Introduction

Welcome, brothers and sisters, to this gathering of hearts and minds in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. We are here today, not by coincidence, but by divine appointment. Each of us, through the grace of God, has been drawn into this fellowship, this family, this faith community. We are here, not as isolated individuals, but as members of a body, each one of us playing a crucial role in the life of this church, and in the life of the greater Christian community.

In the words of the great Christian author and theologian, J.I. Packer, "The Christian's life in all its aspects—intellectual and ethical, devotional and relational, upsurging in worship and outgoing in witness—is supernatural; only the Spirit can initiate and sustain it. So apart from Him, not only will there be no lively believers and no lively congregations, there will be no believers and no congregations at all." This statement, profound in its simplicity, underscores the essential role of the Holy Spirit in initiating and sustaining the Christian life and community. Today, we turn our hearts and minds to the book of Acts, chapter 2, verses 42-47:

Salvation's Significance in Shaping Christian Community

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. 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 the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.

Strengthening Bonds through Christ's Resurrection

The resurrection of Christ is a cornerstone of our faith ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO