Incorporation into the Christian family
Acts wrote a historical narrative for Theophilus about the birth of the church and the new ministry of the Holy Spirit on earth. Barnabas sold some land and donated the proceeds to the new Christian community that was forming in Jerusalem. They provided for each others' needs and joined together voluntarily.
Note that they lived communally and not communistically. They voluntarily lived this way and were not forced. They were being persecuted and would need to rely on each other while they were being ostracized from family and friends. Later, the Gentile Christians would also face persecution throughout the empire and would have to rely on their Christian family for love and support.
Christianity comes with a cost. There will be sacrifice, discomfort, ostracizing, and other trials. The world doesn't understand. But our Christian family does. The early church knew the importance of family and community. They needed that in order to edify and exhort each other to persevere. We need to do the same. Lone Ranger Christianity doesn't work. We mere made uniquely and gifted to contribute to the body. You are and will be a blessing to others as you live and love in community with other believers. This is your new family.
Created 4 months ago
