Read Acts 2:42; John 17:14-17
One of the characteristics of the early church was their devotion to the apostles’ teachings. Why was this so important to them? We must remember that at that time, the message of Christ and His teachings were a radical departure from the Jewish teachings of the day. It was important for the early church to understand what God was doing and what He now wanted them to do. In many ways, emerging from Jesus’ teaching (and Jesus Himself) was an enlarged expression and revelation of God. Think for a moment what we now know about God from the New Testament writings – His incredible grace in the death of His Son for undeserving sinners; His plan for the ages to save the whole world beginning with one faithful man named Abraham; the end of the Law and a new freedom from sin; a new life in Christ and the indwelling presence of God through the Holy Spirit. The list goes on. It is no wonder the early church was so devoted to the apostles’ teaching – it was something so radically new and real they couldn’t stop listening and learning.
Those early days are no different for us today who have put our faith in Christ. The way we think and act are radically different being now compelled by the love of Christ. Our devotion to the teaching of God’s Word is no different. God has revealed who He is through the Scriptures, and we know more about Him than at any time before Christ. Who is God? Who is Christ? Who is the Holy Spirit? What does God want me to be and do? May God give you a desire to know Him more and more, and then love Him so much more.
To consider: How strong is your desire to know the Triune God more? How are you fulfilling that desire? How have you grown in your knowledge of God over the last year?
Jesus said we are sanctified (set apart, made holy) by the Word of truth (Jn. 17:17). This is not some mystical, magical phenomenon. The process of growing in Christ requires the hard work of filling our minds with truth. That was Jesus’ prayer for the disciples back then, and it continues to be His prayer for us today (Jn. 17:20). Reading, studying, and learning the truths of God’s Word are fundamental to our growth. Neglecting this area of our lives is like cutting the roots of a plant without which it will wither and die.
To consider: Is the Word of God playing a role in your life today? How?