A Renewed Heart Brings a Renewed Lifestyle: Acts 2:42-47

It may appear that the early Christians lived in idyllic Christian communities. New Testament letters addressed the many tensions and problems that existed. But this description of lifestyle in the early Jerusalem church does give us some clues as to how our lifestyle might change as God moves in revival. First, there will be a greater passion to spend time with God and grow in relationship with him. Second, we will want to be together more to encourage and disciple and serve and share with and pray with each other. Third, we will have a much stronger awareness of the presence and power of God. Where will all this fit into our present daily routines? There will be significant sacrifices along with wonderful new experiences of God.

A Renewed Heart Brings a Renewed Lifestyle : Acts 2:42-47

It may appear that the early Christians lived in idyllic Christian communities. New Testament letters addressed the many tensions and problems that existed. But this description of lifestyle in the early Jerusalem church does give us some clues as to how our lifestyle might change as God moves in revival. First, there will be a greater passion to spend time with God and grow in relationship with him. Second, we will want to be together more to encourage and disciple and serve and share with and pray with each other. Third, we will have a much stronger awareness of the presence and power of God. Where will all this fit into our present daily routines? There will be significant sacrifices along with wonderful new experiences of God.

In this Scripture we see some of the marks of community revival. God’s Spirit fills the lives of believers and they are empowered. Ordinary people become miracle workers. Regular Christians hear God and speak boldly on his behalf. Revival is not something for the spiritual elite. It is not for the particularly holy. It is for us all. Everyone. And many are saved as they call on God. The power and love of God are seen through the lives of common people and the wonders God does through them. And many are drawn to the freedom and deliverance of Jesus. This is getting exciting Lord. Thanks that you have given me your Spirit to live in me and empower me

The coming of God’s Spirit was a unique and special event. Here we see that many are drawn to Jesus. Many hear the convicting voice of God’s Spirit. Many prodigals come home. It is not that Peter had no contribution to the work of God’s Spirit in revival. He warned and pleaded with the crowd to believe in Jesus. He was bold and convincing. But this was the Spirit’s work not Peter’s work. God’s Spirit was opening eyes and cutting open hearts in powerful new ways. We need to rest in what we need to do, understanding that it is God at work.