Introduction
This week in the sanctuary service, we jumped into a crucial aspect of the Christian journey: what happens after justification. Justification is the moment when you accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior. But what comes next? How do you continue to grow in your faith? This sermon explores the journey of discipleship, the importance of community, and how to live a life that reflects Jesus Christ.
The Early Church's Example
In Acts 1, we see the disciples waiting in constant prayer for the Holy Spirit. Jesus had promised them this gift, and they waited in Jerusalem as instructed. When the Holy Spirit came at Pentecost, Peter boldly proclaimed the gospel and scripture says the people were “cut to the heart” (Acts 2:37), leading to the baptism of 3,000. This was the birth of the Church of Jesus Christ. Now we ask the question — what did the 3,000 new believers do next? Did they just go home and forget about their encounter with the gospel — absolutely not. Acts 2:42-47 tells readers what happened next.
What Happens Next — Discipleship
Because of the work of Jesus on the cross, we are saved and made right in the eyes of God at the moment of justification; however, the process of becoming more like Jesus through the Holy Spirit's work in your life is a lifelong journey of transformation. We often refer to this process as sanctification. We’re being made more and more like Jesus through this process. The early believers devoted themselves to several key practices that helped them grow in their faith:
1. Teaching of the Apostles: They studied, listened, and learned about the faith.
2. Fellowship: They did life together, supporting each other through the ups and downs of everyday life.
3. Breaking of Bread: They celebrated communion to remember Jesus' sacrifice and the heart of what they believed.
4. Prayer: They prayed individually and together, asking God to provide for their needs.
5. Generosity: They sold their possessions to help those in need.
6. Worship: They met in the temple courts for prayer and worship.
7. Meals Together: They ate together in their homes, fostering community.
A Key Component of Discipleship — Community
Christianity is not a solitary religion. While your relationship with Jesus is deeply personal, you also need a community of believers to support and challenge you. Jesus Himself modeled this by surrounding Himself with the twelve disciples and an inner circle of Peter, James, and John. In today's world, loneliness, anxiety, and depression are rampant. The early church found close fellowship in Christ, which poured out in generosity and a connected community. Each of us as believers need a community to do life with. No matter our age, we need someone to pour into us through answering our questions, holding us accountable, passing on wisdom, and joining us in prayer. And the opposite of this is true, as well. Believers need to be strong mentors and disciple-makers who are pouring into new believers. We need to be intentional, vulnerable, and gracious in our interactions to build true community and find our people.
Some Practical Tips to Find Community
1. Join a Bible Study or Small Group: Participate in a Bible study to deepen your understanding of Scripture and build relationships with other believers.
2. Attend Worship Services: Make it a priority to attend worship services regularly. This helps you stay connected to the larger church community.
3. Share and Receive Prayer Requests: Be open about your needs and pray for others. This fosters a sense of mutual support.
4. Be Intentional and Vulnerable: Take off the masks of perfectionism, toughness, or whatever you choose to hide behind. Be yourself and be intentional about forming relationships.
5. Push Past Comfort Zones: Don't limit your friendships to people who look, think, and act like you. The most important thing you have in common with other believers is Jesus Christ. The early Church modeled a deep sense of love and mutual respect between believers for the sake of Christ.
Challenge for the Week
This week, take a step to deepen your relationship with Christ through discipleship practices and fostering your community. Whether it's joining a Bible study, attending a worship service, or inviting someone over for a meal, make an intentional effort to connect with others.
Questions to Reflect On
1. Who is discipling you, and who are you discipling?
2. How can you be more intentional in forming and nurturing relationships?
3. What steps can you take this week to grow in your faith and support others in their journey?
Conclusion
A saving relationship with Jesus begins with justification but continues through a lifelong journey of discipleship. This journey is best undertaken in the context of a supportive community. So, find your people, engage in the practices of the early church, and let the Holy Spirit transform you into the likeness of Christ.
Grace upon grace,
Sam
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