And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. – Acts 2:42
What do you think of when you hear the word “devoted”? Perhaps you remember Sandy portrayed by Olivia Newton-John crooning “Hopelessly devoted to you.” Her emotions in young love controlled her, though she knew better. Definitions of devotion include love, loyalty, dedication, and commitment. Or perhaps, in today’s vernacular, a devoted person would be described as “all in.” The apostle Paul was “all in,” referring to himself as a “fool for Christ” (1 Corinthians 4:10).
The early church was “all in” when it came to taking the apostle’s teachings to heart, spending time with each other, including breaking bread and praying. The breaking of bread means both practicing communion and sharing a common meal. They also shared their possessions with those in need. They did this because their devotion was, first of all, to the Lord Jesus. When they received His love and forgiveness, the natural outward expression was to practice these things.
Are you “all in” when it comes to being loving, loyal, and dedicated to the Lord? Do your actions echo the early church, of being devoted to the teachings of Scripture, fellowshipping with your brothers and sisters, and praying? Are you sharing with those in need? Are you willing to appear foolish in the eyes of the world? If any of these are a struggle, renew your devotion to the Lord. He is worthy of your complete dedication. Pray for the citizens and governing officials of the United States to hear, receive, and live the gospel of Christ and be “all in.”
Today’s Verse: Acts 2:42
And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: Acts 2:36-41
36 Let all the house of Israel therefore know for certain that God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified.”
37 Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” 38 And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.” 40 And with many other words he bore witness and continued to exhort them, saying, “Save yourselves from this crooked generation.” 41 So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
