Abide Together: Reflections on Acts 4

Acts 4:32 says, “Now the full number of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one said that any of the things that belonged to him was his own, but they had everything in common.”

This is an astonishing statement. Everyone? The full number of those who believed? You mean there weren’t any selfish people among the group? Wow! Astonishing right? I mean, in all honesty, who among us at GBC would be comfortable with someone else in the church (especially those who we don’t know very well) walking into our home unannounced and grabbing a sandwich out of the refrigerator? What?!?! That’s just weird. Yes. Well….maybe it is a little strange, but I have a friend who describes our true community as those people who have “refrigerator rights.” I think it’s an interesting thought. These people are the ones with whom we openly share our lives and our belongings. Acts says the believers had “everything in common” which sounds pretty similar to me. This same friend encourages believers to “wear out their welcome mat,” saying that as we open our homes we begin to create a culture of community and model what it’s like to live as these first believers demonstrated. And just in case you need the reminder, since our lives are filled with Christ and overflowing with Him, inviting others into our lives is also an invitation for them to know Christ and to see how He works in and through our lives.

This weekend, my family attended another barn dance (this time in honor of the Harden’s Anniversary) at the Harden’s home. We have been to their home several times. Although they probably wouldn’t have any issue with it, I’m not quite comfortable enough to walk in and grab a sandwich out of their fridge, but I do know that I feel more comfortable and welcomed with each visit. I’m excited to be a part of a community of people who are working toward this goal and striving for this kind of Biblical community. Christ is working through the Hardens and their hospitality. He is inviting others to know Him and to walk more deeply with Him. It may sound crazy to think that a “barn dance” can work this way, but when that barn is full of believers who have “everything in common,” it’s full of Jesus.

“Everything in common” – Who are you sharing your life and belongings with? Who has “refrigerator rights” at your house? Does your “Welcome Mat” need to be replaced? Who needs to be invited into your life?

Steve Corn