“We talk a lot about learning new truths, but the hardest part of growth is often unlearning the things that hurt us. Letting go of fear-based theology, rigid black-and-white thinking, and institutional guilt takes time. Be patient with your mind as you unpack the heavy bags you were handed.” Deconstruction Trail
Get behind me Satan!
“How is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit?” (Acts 5:3) This story is a reminder that Jesus’s church remains a perfect church.Peter observes that Satan has filled Ananias’s heart.Even in the church Satan still works to undermine the Spirit’s work.The Spirit comes to fill our hearts…
Resurrection hope produces generosity!
“With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus.” (Acts 4:33) Why was the message of the resurrection so important for the apostles?It was not just because it was an amazing story to tell.The resurrection dramatically changed them, and how they viewed life.The resurrection gave them a new philosophy for…
A radical grace community!
“No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had.” (Acts 4:32) This first church was not perfect, but this description is amazing.Despite their divisions and differences, they aimed to be radically one.They even renounced ‘private property’ to generously sharing everything!Not claiming our possessions as our own seems so…
The power of love!
“They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen.” (Acts 4:28) What is God’s will for us?As I understand it, God’s will is that we love God and love people.God used His power to create this kingdom of love, where His will was done.When this verse is read, we normally think of God’s…
Humble, gracious loving boldness!
“Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness.” (Acts 4:29) Jesus knew what His mission was, and the what risks involved.A commitment to living for God’s love will make you a target.The first disciples are committed to this same mission, with the same risks.They are threatened, but notice what…
Cannot help speaking about Jesus!
“As for us, we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.” (Acts 4:20) Those who have experienced God’s love in Jesus cannot help speaking about it.Jesus and the Jesus Way are so radically different and superior to all others.The way that this love blesses, heals and transforms people is incredible!How can I not…
Saved… in the Name of love!
“Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12) The only hope for rescue from this broken, messed-up world is the love of God.God’s Name is compassion, grace, patience, abounding love, faithfulness, unfailing love, forgiveness.This was God’s Name to…
The powerful Name of kindness!
“If we are being called to account today for an act of kindness shown to a man…” (Acts 4:9) The religious leaders want to know the power and the name behind this miracle.But for Peter this was not a miracle for its own sake; it was an act of kindness.The power and the name at work…
Blessing sinners like Jesus did!
“When God raised up his servant, he sent him first to you to bless you by turning each of you from your wicked ways.” (Acts 3:26) When we think of blessing, we think of the gifts God has given us.Family, health, financial success, a safe place to live… ‘I am so blessed’.Peter refers to how God…