2.4 Caring for the Community
Active Compassion and Holistic Healing: Authentic Christianity of the Early Church

Emphasizing care for the community was a central feature of the early Christian communities and remains a timeless lesson for today’s church. Here are some key thoughts on this:

1. Holistic Care: The early church understood that the message of the Gospel encompasses not only spiritual but also physical and social needs. They followed Jesus’ example, who cared for the whole person by not only teaching and preaching but also healing and attending to people’s needs.

2. Selfless Love: Christian care for the community is characterized by selfless love that focuses not only on one’s own needs but also on serving and helping others, regardless of their background, origin, or faith.

3. Commitment to Human Needs: The church should actively engage in its community by paying attention to people’s needs, offering help and support, and advocating for justice, peace, and well-being in the community.

4. Sharing the Good News: While the church cares for the physical and social welfare of the community, it should also continue to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ, as this is the ultimate solution to people’s spiritual needs.

5. Power of the Holy Spirit: Care for the community should be done in the power and guidance of the Holy Spirit, who leads, empowers, and inspires the church to be active in serving others.

For today’s end-time church, this means that it should continue to rely on the model of the early church by practicing holistic care for the community. This includes active participation in social, humanitarian, and diaconal services, promoting justice and peace, supporting the needy and disadvantaged, and proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ in word and deed. By implementing these principles in its daily life and service, the church can have a positive impact on society, advance the kingdom of God, and proclaim the Gospel in a credible and relevant manner.

Read Acts 2:44–47; 3:6–9; and 6:1–7. What principles can we learn about authentic Christianity from these passages, even though circumstances may vary?

From the mentioned passages in Acts, we can learn several principles about authentic Christianity that remain timeless and universally relevant despite varying circumstances:

1. Community and Participation: Believers in the early church lived in close community and shared their resources with each other. They cared for the needs of their brothers and sisters, ensuring that no one among them lacked anything (Acts 2:44–45; 4:32).

2. Healing and Care: In Acts, we see that the apostles and the early believers cared not only for people’s spiritual needs but also for their physical needs. They healed the sick and helped the needy (Acts 3:6–9).

3. Service and Diaconia: As the church grew, there were challenges in providing for the poor. The apostles recognized the importance of deacons – people who specifically cared for the material needs of the community so that the apostles could continue to focus on prayer and the ministry of the word (Acts 6:1–7).

4. Testimony and Proclamation: Despite challenges and persecutions, the church did not stop proclaiming the Gospel. They boldly testified about Jesus Christ and redemption through Him, both in Jerusalem and the surrounding areas (Acts 4:31; 5:42).

5. Unity in Faith and Prayer: The early church was characterized by unity in faith and prayer. They regularly came together to pray, hear the apostles’ teaching, and celebrate the Lord’s Supper (Acts 2:42).

6. Living in Light of Eternity: Facing the imminent return of Christ, believers lived in anticipation and hope. They were aware that as ambassadors of Jesus in a broken world, their task was to touch others with the love and grace of Christ (John 10:10).

In summary, these passages from Acts teach us that authentic Christianity is characterized by community, care, service, testimony, unity, and a conscious focus on the return of Christ. These principles are timeless and can serve as a guide today on how we can live our faith in a practical and relevant way, regardless of the circumstances we face.

What role does the church play in collaborating with Christ to refute Satan’s accusations?

The role of the church in collaborating with Christ to refute Satan’s accusations is central to the Christian understanding of spiritual warfare, redemption, and sanctification. The Bible often describes the devil as the “accuser of the brethren” (Revelation 12:10), who constantly seeks to accuse believers before God and question their identity and position in Christ.

Here are some key aspects of the role of the church in this collaboration:

1. Proclamation of the Gospel: Through the proclamation of the Gospel, the church testifies to the central message of Christ and His redemption. This Gospel proclaims that through faith in Jesus Christ and His substitutionary sacrifice on the cross, sins are forgiven, and the accusations of the devil against believers can be rejected (Romans 8:1).

2. Community and Encouragement: The community of believers in the church serves as a place of encouragement, comfort, and support. When believers come together to strengthen and encourage each other in faith, the accusation and isolation by the devil are diminished (Hebrews 10:24-25).

3. Practical Sanctification: The church plays a crucial role in instructing and encouraging believers to live a holy life that aligns with God’s will. Through teaching, counseling, and spiritual disciplines, the church helps believers resist temptations and lead a life of purity and dedication (Ephesians 4:22-24).

4. Prayer: Prayer is a powerful tool in spiritual warfare against the accusations of the devil. The church is called to continually pray for its members, especially when they are confronted with spiritual temptations, trials, or accusations (Ephesians 6:18).

5. Administration of the Sacraments: The sacraments, especially baptism and the Lord’s Supper, are visible signs of God’s grace and belonging to Christ. By regularly celebrating these sacraments, the church reaffirms the identity and position of believers in Christ and thus refutes the accusations of the devil (Romans 6:3-4; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26).

In summary, the church plays a crucial role in collaborating with Christ to refute Satan’s accusations by proclaiming the Gospel, offering community, encouraging practical sanctification, interceding in prayer for its members, and administering the sacraments. Through these means, the church testifies to the overcoming power of Christ and His redemption and strengthens believers in the spiritual battle against the accuser.

Connecting these principles with our everyday life and faith is essential for authentic Christianity in today’s world. Here are some key aspects of how these principles are relevant and practically applicable in our daily lives:

1. Holistic Care in Everyday Life: In our daily lives, we should strive to recognize and respond to not only the spiritual but also the physical and emotional needs of people around us. This can be done through simple acts of kindness, supporting the needy in our community, or actively participating in humanitarian and diaconal services.

2. Practicing Selfless Love: Every day, we have the opportunity to practice selfless love by serving others, paying attention to their needs, and supporting them, regardless of their background or beliefs.

3. Engaging with the Community: We should consciously engage in our church and community by advocating for justice, peace, and the well-being of all. This can be done through active participation in community projects, social initiatives, or simple acts of kindness and support.

4. Sharing the Gospel: In our daily lives, we should constantly look for opportunities to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ, whether through our testimony, actions, or words. By telling others about the love and redemption in Christ, we offer them the ultimate hope and healing.

5. Acting in the Spirit: In everything we do, we should be guided and inspired by the Holy Spirit. This means staying in prayer to seek God’s guidance and wisdom and trusting that the Spirit empowers and inspires us to be active in serving others.

6. Unity and Community: In our fast-paced and often fragmented world, it is important to foster unity and community in our daily lives. This can be done through regular fellowship with other believers, mutual encouragement and support, or participation in church events and activities.

In summary, the authentic Christianity of the early church and the lessons from the Acts of the Apostles provide a solid foundation and guidance on how we can live our faith in our daily lives. By implementing these principles in our daily lives, we can be a living testimony for Christ, bring God’s love into the world, and advance the kingdom of God in our surroundings.

Authentic Christianity recognizes and responds to the holistic needs of the community, united by selfless love, commitment, and the proclaimed Gospel.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-2-the-central-issue-love-or-selfishness-2-4-caring-for-the-community/

2.3 Faithful Amid Persecution
Unwavering Faith and Rapid Growth: Early Christianity Amidst Persecution

Read Acts 2:41; 4:4,31; 5:42, and 8:1–8. What do these verses teach us about the challenges faced by the early church and why it grew so quickly?

The mentioned verses from the Book of Acts provide valuable insights into the challenges faced by the early church and why it still grew rapidly:

1. Courage amidst Persecution and Threat (Acts 4:17; 5:17–18; 8:1): Despite the danger of persecution, imprisonment, and even death, the disciples remained courageous and steadfast in their faith. Their determination and trust in God were not shaken by external threats.

2. Power of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:41; 4:31): The disciples were strengthened and empowered by the Holy Spirit. This divine power enabled them to boldly proclaim the Gospel and testify to Jesus Christ, despite the resistance and persecutions they encountered.

3. Growing Community despite Resistance (Acts 5:42; 8:1–8): Despite persecution and resistance, the church continued to grow. This demonstrates that the Gospel gained strength and people were attracted to it despite the challenges.

4. Promise and Mission Command (Acts 1:8; Mark 16:15): The disciples were equipped with a clear mission and promise from Jesus Christ. This promise and the mission command provided them with a clear purpose and drive to proclaim the Gospel and spread the message of Jesus Christ.

5. Spread of the Gospel despite Resistance (Colossians 1:23): The Gospel spread to the remotest corners despite persecution and resistance. This shows the power and effectiveness of the Gospel and the faithfulness of believers in spreading the message of Jesus Christ.

The mentioned historical reports, like that of Pliny the Younger, confirm the rapid spread of Christianity despite strong persecution and resistance. This demonstrates the resilience and growth of the Christian community despite the most malicious attacks of the devil.

In summary, these verses teach us that the early church grew amidst challenges due to courage, the power of the Holy Spirit, a clear mission command, and the promise from Jesus Christ. This shows the power and effectiveness of the Gospel and the faithfulness and determination of the early Christians to spread the message of Jesus Christ in the world.

What can we learn from the early church that could help us, the end-time church?

The early church offers us many valuable lessons and examples that can also be relevant and helpful for today’s end-time church:

1. Strength in Faith amidst Persecution: The early church remained steadfast in faith despite intense persecution and threats. This reminds us that we should also remain firm in faith during difficult times and not be discouraged by external challenges.

2. Community and Unity: The early church was known for its community and unity. Believers supported each other, shared their resources, and stood together in faith. This shows the importance of community and unity in the church, especially in times of testing and persecution.

3. Power of the Holy Spirit: The early church was strengthened and empowered by the Holy Spirit. This reminds us of the need to constantly seek to be filled with the Holy Spirit and be guided and strengthened by Him.

4. Mission and Evangelism: The early church was mission-oriented and actively sought to spread the Gospel and win people for Christ. This shows the importance of evangelism and mission in the church, even in modern times.

5. Faithfulness to Scripture and Doctrine: The early church placed great emphasis on faithfulness to Scripture and apostolic teaching. This reminds us of how important it is to hold onto the foundations of the Christian faith and be guided by the Scripture.

6. Hope and Expectation of Christ’s Return: The early church lived in the expectation of Christ’s return and lived accordingly in holiness and expectation. This reminds us that we should live in anticipation of Christ’s return and prepare ourselves by living a holy and expectant life.

7. Perseverance and Endurance: Despite persecution and challenges, the early church remained steadfast and persistent in faith. This shows the importance of perseverance, endurance, and consistency in Christian life and ministry.

In summary, we can learn from the early church to remain steadfast in faith, promote community and unity, be guided by the Holy Spirit, be mission-oriented, remain faithful to Scripture and doctrine, live in anticipation of Christ’s return, and show perseverance and endurance in faith. These lessons and examples from the early church can help us, as the end-time church, stand firm in faith and be effective in serving Christ.

The connection of the lessons and examples from the early church with our everyday life and faith in the end-time church is profound and can shape us in many aspects of our lives as Christians:

1. Strength in Faith amidst Persecution: In a world often hostile to the Christian faith, we need to emulate the steadfastness and determination of the early church. Our relationship with Christ should be so deeply rooted that it strengthens and sustains us during times of testing and persecution.

2. Community and Unity: In a time where individualism and isolation often prevail, we should rediscover the importance of community and unity in the church. Through sharing resources, mutual support, and collective prayer, we can grow and be strengthened as a church.

3. Power of the Holy Spirit: We should constantly strive to be filled with the Holy Spirit, enabling us to grow in our faith, bear fruit, and be effective in serving Christ.

4. Mission and Evangelism: The need to spread the Gospel in our modern and often skeptical world remains. We should be mission-oriented and actively strive to win people for Christ and support them in discipleship.

5. Faithfulness to Scripture and Doctrine: In a time where relativism and uncertainty about truth prevail, we should hold firmly to the unchanging truth of Scripture and allow it to guide and shape us.

6. Hope and Expectation of Christ’s Return: Our hope and expectation of Christ’s return should shape our lives and motivate us to live in holiness and prepare for His coming.

7. Perseverance and Endurance: In a world often seeking quick solutions and instant gratification, we should rediscover the importance of perseverance, patience, and consistency in faith. We should focus on remaining faithful in faith, even when facing obstacles and challenges.

In summary, the lessons and examples from the early church can help us strengthen our faith in modern times, deepen our relationship with Christ, strengthen our community, fulfill our mission, hold fast to truth, live in hope and expectation, and remain steadfast and consistent in faith. By practicing these principles in our everyday lives and faith, we can stand effectively in service for Christ as the end-time church and further His kingdom on this earth.

Gestärkt durch den Heiligen Geist und vereint in Gemeinschaft, zeigt die frühe Kirche, dass Glaube und Standhaftigkeit in Zeiten der Verfolgung nicht nur möglich, sondern auch Wachstum und Ausbreitung fördern.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-2-the-central-issue-love-or-selfishness-2-3-faithful-amid-persecution/

2.2 Christians Providentially Preserved
God’s Sovereign Guidance: Protection and Preservation of His Church

The section “Christians Preserved by Providence” sheds light on an impressive example of God’s mercy and care towards His people. In the dramatic events surrounding the siege and destruction of Jerusalem, God’s providence is clearly evident, demonstrating how He protects His children.

The sudden decision of Cestius Gallus and the Roman troops to retreat was more than just a strategic mistake; it was a divine intervention. This unexpected maneuver provided the Christians in Jerusalem with an opportunity to flee, saving them from the terrible fate that awaited the city. This “promised sign” given to the Christians is a powerful testament to God’s love and care for His followers.

The pivotal moment when the Christians fled from Jerusalem to Pella reminds us that God often finds ways to protect us from dangers and guide us in the right direction, even in the darkest times. It is comforting to know that even amidst chaos and uncertainty, God’s providence is effective, and He always finds ways to lead and protect us.

This historical event should encourage us to trust in God’s guidance during difficult times and seek His will in our lives. It reminds us that God’s mercy and grace are not just abstract concepts but real and tangible in our lives. Like the Christians in Jerusalem, we too should heed God’s warnings, follow His path, and be aware of His constant care.

Read Psalm 46:2 and Isaiah 41:10. What do these verses tell us about God’s providence?

The mentioned Bible verses offer profound insights into God’s character and His sovereignty over the events of the world.

Psalm 46:2 (KJV): “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”

Isaiah 41:10 (KJV): “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”

Both verses emphasize God’s unwavering presence and care for His people, even in times of distress and suffering. Psalm 46:2 speaks of God as a refuge and strength in times of great trouble. This verse reminds us that God is our safe haven to turn to when faced with challenges and difficulties.

Isaiah 41:10 goes further, assuring us that we should not be afraid because God is with us. He promises to strengthen, help, and uphold us through His righteousness. This verse is a powerful testimony to God’s faithfulness and His ability to guide and protect us through all the storms of life.

In summary, these verses show us that God’s providence and care are unshakable. He is always by our side, ready to strengthen, protect, and guide us through any situation. Even when we go through times of distress, persecution, or suffering, we can trust that God will not leave us alone and will fulfill His plan for us and for this world. It is an encouraging thought that amidst all the uncertainties of life, we have a sovereign and loving God whom we can rely on.

Read Hebrews 11:35–38 and Revelation 2:10. What reality do these texts reveal about our struggle with the powers of evil? How do these verses harmonize with the notion of God’s protection in the previous question? Is there a contradiction between the idea of God’s protection and the fact that God allows some believers to face painful suffering and even martyrdom for the sake of Christ?

Hebrews 11:35–38 (KJV) reads: “Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection: And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment: They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented; (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.”

Revelation 2:10 (KJV) says: “Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.”

These verses reveal the reality of an intense spiritual battle that believers face against the forces of evil. They describe how some believers had to endure martyrdom, persecution, and suffering, while others experienced miracles and divine interventions.

In relation to the notion of God’s protection, as discussed in the previous questions, these verses show that God’s protection does not always mean that believers are physically preserved from suffering or death. Instead, it speaks of a deeper, spiritual protection and support that God provides, even when believers go through hardships and sufferings. In Revelation 2:10, believers are even told that some of them will be thrown into prison and will face ten days of tribulation. But they are encouraged to remain faithful unto death, as God will give them the crown of life.

There is no contradiction between the idea of God’s protection and the fact that some believers face painful suffering and even martyrdom for the sake of Christ. God’s protection does not mean that we are shielded from all difficulties and sufferings, but that He is with us, strengthens us, encourages us, and guides us through all situations. As mentioned in the cited text from VSL 41, God’s work continues steadily even when His workers suffer or die. Through their defeat, they remain victorious in truth through Christ.

Overall, these verses and the cited text show that the spiritual battle and the sufferings that believers experience are part of the Christian life. But amidst these trials and difficulties, believers can rely on God’s unwavering presence, care, and promises.

What should it mean for us that the authors of the Bible, who undoubtedly knew pain and suffering, could still write repeatedly about the reality of God’s love? How can we experience this love for ourselves?

The fact that the authors of the Bible, despite their own experiences of pain, suffering, and human difficulties, continued to write about the reality of God’s love is a powerful testament to the unwavering and transcendent nature of divine love. These authors found comfort, hope, and encouragement in the certainty that even amidst suffering and darkness, God’s love remains constant.

For us, this means that God’s love can be a constant and reliable source of comfort, strength, and peace in our lives. It is an invitation to place our own experiences, uncertainties, and fears against the backdrop of God’s all-encompassing and eternal love. God’s love is not just a concept or theory but a real, tangible force that can transform our lives.

To experience this love for ourselves, there are several steps we can take:

1. Biblical Meditation and Study: Regularly reading and studying the Bible allows us to delve deeper into understanding and experiencing God’s love. The stories, teachings, and promises of the Bible can encourage and comfort us, reminding us of God’s steadfast love.

2. Prayer: Prayer is a direct line of communication with God. Through prayer, we can share our hearts, concerns, and joys with God and ask for a personal experience of His love.

3. Fellowship with other believers: Connecting with other Christians can help us see and experience God’s love in action. Together, we can encourage, comfort, and remind each other of God’s love, especially in times of difficulty.

4. Practicing Love for Others: Jesus taught us to love one another as God has loved us. By reflecting God’s love in our daily lives through acts of kindness, goodness, and care for others, we can experience more of this love ourselves.

5. Openness and Surrender: To truly experience God’s love, we must be open and willing to fully surrender to Him. This means letting go of our fears, uncertainties, and doubts and allowing ourselves to be embraced by God’s love.

Ultimately, experiencing God’s love is a personal journey that requires time, patience, and dedication. But when we embark on this journey, we can experience a transformative and life-changing relationship with the Creator of the universe, who deeply loves us and accompanies us in every phase of our lives.

The connection between these profound biblical teachings and our everyday life is immediate and life-changing. Here are some key points that illustrate how these teachings can be applied in daily life:

1. Trusting in God’s Providence: Amidst life’s challenges and uncertainties, we can rely on God’s sovereign guidance and providence. This gives us peace and assurance that, no matter what circumstances we go through, God has a plan and will guide us through every situation.

2. Strengthening through God’s Word: Regular reading and meditation on God’s Word can strengthen, comfort, and guide us in daily life. The biblical promises and teachings are like a lighthouse showing us the way in times of darkness.

3. Community and Support: Fellowship with other believers can encourage and strengthen us. Together, we can see God’s love in action and support and encourage each other in our faith journeys.

4. Steadfast Dedication and Faithfulness: As emphasized in Hebrews 11:35-38 and Revelation 2:10, our faith and loyalty to God can carry us through the toughest times. It is important to remain steadfast and faithful, even when faced with challenges, suffering, or persecution.

5. Experience of God’s Love: God’s love is not just a concept but a tangible reality. By embracing and practicing God’s love in our daily lives, we can experience deep joy, peace, and fulfillment.

In summary, these teachings and principles can help us lead a life full of trust, hope, love, and peace, even amidst difficulties and challenges. It reminds us that God is always with us, loves us, strengthens us, and guides us through all the highs and lows of life. It challenges us to live out our faith in everyday life, deepen our relationship with God, and recognize and appreciate His love and care in every moment of our lives.

God’s providence preserves us, even in the darkest times, reminding us of His unwavering love and care.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-2-the-central-issue-love-or-selfishness-2-2-christians-providentially-preserved/

Lesson 2.The Central Issue: Love or Selfishness?
The Heart of Christianity: Love, Resistance, and Community in the Early Church

Warm welcome to the second lesson of our comprehensive thematic cycle “From Shadow to Light.” In this lesson, we will delve deeply into an essential question that touches the heart of our spiritual journey: Love or Egoism? This fundamental choice, which each of us makes daily, influences not only our personal lives but also our relationships, our community, and ultimately our entire worldview.

In this lesson, we will explore the profound significance of love in the Christian context and how it acts as an antidote to egoism and darkness. We will bring together biblical concepts, inspiring stories, and practical applications to gain a deeper understanding of the transformative power of unconditional love. Additionally, we will shed light on the themes of providence, fidelity, caring for the community, and the enduring legacy of love.

Let us dive together into this lesson to recognize how we can personally and collectively tread the path from the shadow of egoism towards the light of love. Prepare to be inspired, challenged, and encouraged as we explore these profound principles of the Christian faith together.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-2-the-central-issue-love-or-selfishness-2-1-a-brokenhearted-savior/