The church of Christ on McDermott Road

Scripture: James 5:7-12

Luke describes the early

church as having all things “in common” (Acts 2:44; 4:32). By sharing their possessions generously, they made sure there “was not a needy person among them” (Acts 4:34). Seen from a spiritual perspective, this is nothing less than the kingdom of heaven breaking into the world, eliminating poverty and hunger amongst those who received it. As the kingdom of heaven continues to expand on earth, we must make sure people are clothed, fed, and cared for by having all things in common. (Scripture: Acts 2:42-47)

Following the exciting events of Pentecost, Luke gives us a glimpse of daily life in the new kingdom community. In this section, we see what life looked like when it was transformed by the Spirit’s abiding presence and Jesus’ rule and reign. What were the priorities of this transformed group of people and what are the blessings they experienced? Are these same priorities and blessings reflected in the daily life of McDermott Road? (Scripture: Acts 2:42-47)

Scripture: James 5:1-6

Filled with the Spirit, the apostle Peter pulled back the curtain of the divine drama to reveal what God was doing. As the reader may have anticipated, these are “the last days” of which the prophet Joel spoke. The Messiah’s Kingdom had now come with power. However, the Jewish people had already found themselves on the wrong side of history, because they collectively rejected and killed the God’s Anointed King. But God is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. He is willing to extend pardon, even to his Son’s executioners, provided they repent and are baptized in the name of Jesus the King. (Scripture: Acts 2:14-21)

Scripture: James 4:13-17

The Messiah enthroned, the new temple dedicated, and now God was ready to gather his dispersed people back to himself. The Day of Pentecost was the perfect day for the Shepherd to gather his scattered sheep, because Jerusalem was filled with representatives of the entire Jewish Diaspora. This scene was not only a fulfillment of many prophecies but also serves as a foreshadow of the Day of gathering that is to come. (Scripture: Acts 2:5-8)

Scripture: James 4:1-12

Both the sights and the sounds of Pentecost are echoes of God’s presence coming to reside in the tabernacle and the temple. Now that the Messiah had been enthroned in heaven, God dedicated his new glorious temple. Surprisingly, it was a temple unlike anyone had ever seen. It was a temple of “living stones.” The followers of Jesus became—and continue to be—the temple of God. So, what are the implications of being God’s temple today? (Scripture: Acts 2:1-4)

Scripture: James 3:13-18