Connected

I have wrestled with the question of how do we fulfill the vision of Gateway Church which is connecting people to Jesus Christ and one another? So, I went to the Book with all the answers where Peter preached the Gospel and the church was born.

So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls. Acts 2:41

The first church was a mega church with three thousand. Now remember ladies and children were not recorded back then. So, that number could have been up to six-thousand on the low end. The next question is: How were they connected with one another and support such a large group? The Bible tells us in Acts 2:42-47:

The Fellowship of the Believers

42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43 And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. 44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. 45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts,

47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.

The answer is they were committed and intentional about connecting on a regular basis. They met in their homes and the temple courts. They did it with life groups. Not only did they grow in their faith, but the church grew in number daily, as well. This is why life groups are vital to Gateway. If you don’t feel connected, please join a life group. If you’re in a life group and still feel this way, come talk to me I would love to help.