The birth of the early church was explosive, but the literal heart of it was people who were ready to respond (v 37). Repentance, baptism and receiving the Spirit are closely linked in the New Testament. What stands out here is the expansive reach of Peter’s heart and vision. His horizon for the fulfilment of the promised outpouring of the Spirit stretches well beyond those in front of him – to future generations and far-off people groups (v 39).

Like many things, an expansive heart starts at home. Luke’s snapshot of life among the young community of believers highlights not just the practicalities but also the collective heart posture. Devotion and awe, compassion and generosity, gladness and sincerity – these all characterised the fledgling church. Overflowing in acts of worship and altruism, it’s no wonder that the attractive nature of their common life found them favoured by the people. But perhaps the most important aspect of their fellowship was the simple fact that they were continuing together (v 44). What about us? Do we have hearts postured towards togetherness? Our highly individualistic culture makes it hard to reach for and realise that kind of community, but how potent it is in contrast. 

Lord, help us to hear this story as though for the first time.

In both his Gospel and in the book of Acts, Luke tells the story of Jesus and the birth and spread of the movement of his followers within the broad historical context of the first century. This means that the dominant power of the Roman Empire is frequently visible, and the consequences of its policies in the suffering, hunger and poverty of many people is the background to the miracle of Pentecost. This passage records the response of the crowd to Peter’s preaching (vs 37–41) and the emergence of the new community of disciples who create a way of life together in sharp contrast to that of the world around them (vs 42–47). 

It is important to remember the connection between Acts and the story of the life and teaching of Jesus which Luke has provided in his Gospel. When we are told that the three thousand people who were swept into the kingdom of God ‘devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching’ (v 42) we may be sure that this instruction centred on the life and ministry of Jesus, which was deeply engraved in the memories of the women and men who had recently witnessed it. The radical nature of this community, illustrated by their love for each other and by their selling their possessions and sharing with the needy, was a response to the Jesus whom they confessed as Messiah. The experience of conversion and the gift of the Spirit resulted in the imitation of Jesus, so that, throughout the book of Acts, the members of this community will be identified as the people of the ‘Way’.¹ How great is the challenge of this story for professing Christians today, living in a world dominated by the love of money, where the gulf between rich and poor grows ever greater! Peter’s exhortation, ‘Save yourselves from this corrupt generation’ (v 40) remains as relevant as ever. 

Pray for the renewal of the church, that it might again become the people of the Way.

¹ Eg Acts 9:2; 19:9; 22:4; 24:14