After being released by the Sanhedrin, Peter and John made their way back to their companions, where they witnessed a physical manifestation of the Holy Spirit when the place where the apostles and disciples were gathered was shaken by the mighty hand of God.
“32 Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common.” (Acts 4:32)
By now, the number of believers was in the thousands, and their faith in the risen Lord brought conviction and purpose. By now, those in Christ were blessed with a sense of communion which allowed the gospel and truth to continue to be preached beyond Judea, thereby fulfilling the great commission.
Through miraculous benevolence brought on by faith, believers unselfishly pooled their possessions for the furtherance of God’s kingdom. Because the Lord was pleased by this communion, He provided for each one within His church.
“33 And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all.” (Acts 4:33)
Convicted by faith, the apostles continues to fulfill their mission by advancing the gospel, sharing the truth about Jesus and witnessing to the lost.
“34 Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for all who were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold, 35 and laid them at the apostles’ feet; and they distributed to each as anyone had need.” (Acts 4:34-35)
Answering the call meant for true disciples of the Christ, members of the early church gave up their personal wealth for the benefit of God’s kingdom, and the furthurance of His plan for the chosen.
“36 And Joses, who was also named Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated Son of Encouragement), a Levite of the country of Cyprus, 37 having land, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet.” (Acts 4:36-37)
By faith, Barnabas was completely surrendered to God’s will and Christ’s church. He was a Levite, born of the sacred tribe of Israel, and originated from the Mediteranean island of Cyprus. Barnabas, whose birth name was Joses would eventually become a well documented servant of the Lord and devoted missionary companion to Paul. Let’s pray!
Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant Luke,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of your faithful apostle.
Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles,
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through truth, the gospel, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by your word as we spread your gospel to one and all
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.
God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.
May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.
We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.
Praise God,
Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: danielstpierre@thrivethroughchrist.com
