I wonder if this record would read the same if 21st Century Christians were living in the 1st Century. They surely had some of the same pressures from within and without that we face. But the problems that plague local congregations in our day didn't seem to inhibit the growth of the saints in Jerusalem.

They were a large group. Three thousand were baptized on Pentecost and the number of men was later estimated to be about five thousand (Acts 4:4). Yet, they “continued with one mind.” They focused their energies on one purpose. They worshiped and served one God. The fact that they were great in number didn't keep them from day to day hospitality, it compelled them.

Having three hundred members here does not automatically ensure that we will be a strong church. We need every person doing his part on an individual level before we can pull together in a collective effort. For Christianity to be something practical, it must be something personal.

They were a diverse group. Jews and Gentiles, males and female, slaves and free men became instant family. Even among Jesus’ chosen apostles was Matthew, a former tax collector, and Simon the Zealot, who would have thought it treason to pay tribute to Rome. Yet, these two men loved each other for the same reason that the saints in Jerusalem did; Jesus had brought them together. Though they were different, “they had all things in common.”

We have a great variation of people that are on opposite ends of the spectrum: economically, socially, ethnically, and with regards to spiritual maturity. But we all share something special. We have the same Father, the same Lord, the same hope. We are “all one in Christ Jesus” (Gal. 3:28). We can use our assortment of abilities in different areas for the glory of God and the growth of His kingdom.

They were a persecuted group. People were thrown in prison. Families were torn apart. Some had their houses and land taken away. Many were just dirt poor. How did they react? “They began selling their property and possessions and were sharing them with all.” Oppression could have shattered their young, fragile faith. But it only strengthened their resolve to solve it together.

Persecution can come in the form of mistreatment or discouragement, many times from people and places you least expect. We can allow it to tear us apart or pull us together. We can be beaten down by it or use it as a stepping stone to something greater. We can be overcome by evil or overcome evil with good. Let’s do the latter—together.