“And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.” (Acts 2:42 ESV)
Fortunately, you do not have to live out your faith alone. You share in God’s salvation together with millions of other believers. This makes you a member of the worldwide church, which becomes visible in local congregations, house groups, and other faith communities. The Holy Spirit gives us to one another because we need the church, and the church needs us. Together we form a colorful and diverse unity. Everyone contributes their gifts to serve others. This is not just an option, but a calling for every Christian.
The church is first and foremost a spiritual community where people celebrate and live out their faith together. But there is also attention to practical matters. The first Christians in Jerusalem shared their possessions so that no one was in need. In later letters, we read how one congregation financially supported another (see, for example, 2 Corinthians 8:1–4). And this still happens today. If the Lord God has blessed us with wealth, particular spiritual gifts, or practical talents, we may use those to help people both inside and outside the church. In this way, we can obey Jesus’ command to love one another.
Are you a member of a faith community? What blessings do you receive from this community, and what can you offer to others?