Sermon Snapshot: Devoted to The Bible
In today's message, we began our “Devoted” sermon series and took a deep dive into Acts 2:42-47, where we saw the early church’s commitment to four essential practices: studying the Word, prayer, communion, and fellowship. These practices were not just habits; they were the foundation of their community, and they empowered them to grow in faith, love, and mission.
The Scripture Focus - Acts 2:42 - 47
”They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common.They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.”
The Power of Devotion
We focused on verse 42, where the early believers “devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching.” The Greek word for “devoted” (proskartereō) conveys a sense of steadfast commitment—a determination to continue with passion and consistency. The early church understood that devotion to the Word of God was not just about knowledge; it was about transformation.
“The early church didn’t study the Bible to know more; they studied to be changed, to be shaped into the likeness of Christ”
Why Devotion to the Bible Matters
The Bible isn’t just a book of stories or rules—it’s a living, breathing source of power. The early Christians didn’t study the Bible for the sake of accumulating information; they studied to be shaped, to be transformed, and to be equipped for their mission. As Romans 15:4 tells us, the Scriptures provide “endurance and encouragement” and, most importantly, “hope.” They knew that engaging with God’s Word would give them the strength to endure trials and to boldly share the message of redemption.
“Reading the Bible isn’t just a nice habit or a good idea—it’s essential. It’s how we understand the God we serve, how we grow in our love for Him, and how we prepare ourselves to take His name to the nations”
Our Challenge: Devote Ourselves to the Word
As we reflected on the early church’s devotion, we were challenged to ask ourselves: How devoted are we to reading and engaging with the Bible? Are we allowing it to shape us? To transform us? We often treat the Bible as a Sunday morning obligation, but the early church’s example shows us that true devotion to the Word brings life. It is the source of our hope, identity, and mission.
“The Word of God is powerful. It’s not just information; it’s transformation. It’s not just knowledge; it’s life”
How to Engage with the Word
The message also reminded us that devotion to Scripture doesn’t mean simply reading for the sake of reading. It means approaching the Bible with a sense of awe and gratitude, recognizing that the Word of God is a gift. As we read, we should allow it to stir our hearts and change us from the inside out. Let’s approach the Bible with joy and reverence, remembering the sacrifice that made it available to us and the many people who have fought to preserve it.
“Let’s read from a position of joy and gratitude... What a privilege that we have the opportunity to hear His voice, learn His heart, and experience His presence.”
Living Out Our Devotion
The early church didn’t just read the Bible—they lived it. Their devotion led to action. They were radically generous, committed to fellowship, and empowered to share the good news. The result? “The Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” When we devote ourselves to the Word, it’s not just for our own growth; it’s for the growth of God’s kingdom. Our commitment to Scripture will naturally lead to transformation in our lives and the lives of those around us.
Your Next Step: Devote Yourself to the Word
This week, let’s take the challenge seriously. Devote yourself to the Word of God. Set aside time each day to read, reflect, and pray. Ask God to stir a fresh passion in your heart for His Word, and allow it to transform you. As a community, let’s commit to reading the Bible together, so we can grow in faith and carry the Gospel to the world.
If you’re feeling distant from God or unsure where to start, take a step today. Whether it’s joining a Bible study, asking for resources, or simply setting aside time to read the Scriptures with fresh eyes, God is inviting you to draw near. Let’s answer that call with devotion, love, and boldness—just as the early church did.
“God is inviting you to draw close to Him, to open His Word with fresh eyes, and to let it transform you...If you’re ready to make that commitment, ask God to ignite a new passion in your heart for His Word”
Reflection Questions:
How do you currently engage with God’s Word? Is it a regular part of your life, or do you find it easy to neglect?
What steps can you take this week to devote yourself more fully to Scripture?
How does the early church’s example inspire you to read and live out the Bible in a more transformative way?
Let’s commit together to be a community that is grounded in God’s Word, ready to be transformed and to transform the world around us.
