They followed a daily discipline of worship in the Temple followed by meals at home, every meal a celebration, exuberant and joyful, as they praised God. People in general liked what they saw. Every day their number grew as God added those who were saved.

Acts 2:46-47 (Message)

 

The early church is an excellent example of an evangelistic community. Luke describes how everyone lives out the good news joyously and purposefully. This has a huge impact on how outsiders perceive them, making them curious about their faith. Notice how the Message Bible paraphrases it: “People in general liked what they saw”.

The inherent truth and beauty of the gospel are best expressed in how we participate and do community together. Whenever we celebrate and demonstrate the love we share in Jesus, we create opportunities and possibilities for everyone to encounter God for themselves. This is why was the early church continued to increase in numbers. It wasn't the style of music or preaching. Rather, it was the believers' authencity and sincerity that drew others into a new life with Christ.

If the gospel is not central to our community life and to our ministry, then whatever we are doing doesn’t matter. This is because we are merely an event community, and not an evangelistic community committed to turning the world upside down with the gospel.

Jesus has chosen, called, and commissioned us to take His gospel to the ends of the earth. That is both a privilege and a responsibility that we must not take lightly. We must learn to make the gospel the driving force of our personal and communal life. It is about partnering with our Lord and participating in His holy work. We will reap a harvest of souls because of our joyful sowing.