December 2nd
Four Things Christians Must Not Neglect
In the first chapter of the Book of Acts is an account of Jesus appearing to His disciples. In chapter two they had already been born again and had been baptized with the Holy Spirit and was seen speaking with other tongues. After that we read the account of the first three thousand souls being added to the one hundred and twenty disciples in the upper-room.
Acts 2:41-42
41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.
42 And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.KJV
The Holy Spirit had Luke record about four things that they did not neglect. They are:
1. The Apostles’ Doctrine – The Word
They continued steadfastly in the Apostles’ doctrine – teachings. It is important to note that once you have received the doctrine or truth from God’s Word, especially the truth of God’s Word that formed faith in you, then there are two things that you need to do.
You are to continue in it:
by continuing in studying the same thing, hearing the same thing, and practising the same teachings.
You are to be steadfast in it:
especially when you have benefited from what has been taught. Do not allow any other teachings to ‘move’ you from what had benefited you, what had blessed you.
2. Fellowship
The word fellowship has this Greek definition, “used of the intimate bond of fellowship which unites Christians: absolutely”.
Once we have received the truth of God’s Word and if it has helped us or delivered us, then it is important to fellowship with Christians who believe the same.
When we are bonded in fellowship with Christians who are liked-minded as us, our faith will constantly be nourished, strengthened, renewed and recharged.
3. Holy Communion – Breaking of Bread
Staying in a church that partakes of the Holy Communion is vital for our spiritual and physical health. When we partake of Holy Communion in the local body of Christ we constantly confess the finished work of Christ.
During Holy Communion we are reminded that we are healed by His stripes. We remember every person is a member of the body of Christ and we are to walk in love towards one another. As we obey the commandment of love we experience divine health in our physical body.
4. Prayer
Prayer is communion and fellowship with God. When we are in constant communion and fellowship with God, then it is easy for us to hear from God and God can reveal things to us. Prayer not only carries out the plan of God on the earth, but prayer builds our faith as well.
Conclusion
To live a healthy Christian life, one must have a balance of these four elements. They must be practiced continuously and steadfastly to make us unshakeable and immovable.