Prayer and Sharing

Christians often use the words "prayer" and "sharing" together. The way this phrase is used in the North American Church is different from the "praying and sharing" that is reported in Acts 4:23-37. When believers today refer to "prayer and sharing" it is more precisely "sharing and prayer." The occasion for prayer is usually preceded by a period of sharing concerns and requests. Many times this gets rather lengthy and is actually longer than the prayer time itself. Why do we have to discuss things among ourselves before bringing them to the throne of God? Why not just pray? Others listening can pray along in agreement or pray for the needs themselves.

How different things were in the Jerusalem church! They prayed first - a very deep prayer that was then followed by the sharing of their material goods with those who had need. Let us look first of all at what they prayed and then secondly how they shared.

After the release of Peter and John (from custody of the Sanhedrin) the believers raised their voices together in prayer to God" (Acts 4:24-30). Notice the content of their prayer. 1) The Sovereignty of God. The Almighty is the Creator and Sovereign Lord of the universe. This is a good thing to remind ourselves of when things seem to be out of control. Evil people may be acting on their own volition but somehow God works everything into his purpose and will (See Luke 2:1-12 & Matthew 2:3-6). 2) They referred to Scripture, actually quoting from a relevant passage from Psalms. This is an excellent thing to do - use God's own words when we are seeking something from him. Of course this means we need to be familiar with the Bible in order to do this. To "beef up" your prayers, incorporate God's Word and promises. 3) When they got around to their request, they asked God to strengthen them so they could meet the situation and not avoid it. Most of the time today Christians ask God to change the circumstance instead of changing them. The result of this prayer is noted - the place (not the Christians) was shaken. The believers were once again filled with the Holy Spirit (See Acts 2:4 & Ephesians 5:18). When we are yielded and committed to God we are filled by his presence.

Now observe what occurred next. The believers were unified - "one in heart and mind." This caused them to share what they had with each other. Some even went so far as to sell their possessions and donated the funds to the Apostles- who then distributed where the needs existed. The outcome was that there were no needy persons among them. This voluntary action (see Acts 5:4) was true Christianity action. No wonder the Early Church had great power and much grace (Acts 4:33). The modern church needs to rediscover the actions and attitudes of the Early Church. We need to bring our "prayer and sharing" in line with what is described in the Book of Acts. Perhaps then we will see great numbers turning to Christ.

Why Go to Church?

Why go to church? After all, we can worship God in other places. So why is it important to attend public worship services? The writer of the book of Hebrews gives us some reasons. "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching" (Hebrews 10:24-25).

When we come together we are instruction to take careful note of others so that we might stimulate them to love and do good deeds. Christians are to look out for others and not be preoccupied with themselves. Real joy comes when we give someone else a lift (Heb. 3:13). Love and good works have been the distinguishing marks of a Christian throughout the years (John 13:35 & Ephesians 2:10).

We are reminded not to neglect assembling together as some did then and others do today. Jesus and Paul each had the custom of going to the public meetings. (See Luke 4:16 & Acts 14:1). Regular attendance at the services should be a habit for us.

There are many reasons why people miss going to church. Some, of course, are providentially hindered by illness or extenuating circumstances. Radio and television programs help provide these individuals with spiritual blessings. However, an essential aspect of Christian meetings is the fellowship among believers, and this cannot be reproduced through the mass media. When we gather together, we are to encourage each other in the Christian life for this is true fellowship. (See Acts 11:23, 14:21, 22 & 20:1-2).

As the time for the Lord's return approaches, we are told that our meetings are even more important. The Bible informs us that in the last days, perilous times shall come and evil will abound. Therefore, Christians will need to meet more frequently to encourage one another more than ever before to love and do good works.

With all the economic problems stemming from the downsizing pressure, natural disasters and the news about terrorist attacks, on top of the regular stress of daily living, this is certainly true for today.