Sermon Snapshot: Devoted to Family
The church is not just a building or a gathering—it is a family. As the early believers devoted themselves to one another, we are called to live in deep, sacrificial commitment to each other as the body of Christ.
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."
Families are messy, but they are ours
Just like in biological families, relationships within the church can be challenging. There are misunderstandings, hurt feelings, and moments of frustration. But family isn’t about perfection—it’s about commitment. No matter the struggles, family remains family. Likewise, our church family is a place where we show up, work through difficulties, and love each other through it all.
“Families aren’t perfect, but they are ours. And the same is true for the church.”
Fellowship is more than just a gathering
The greek word for fellowship (koinonia) in Acts 2:42 goes beyond casual community—it describes a deep, sacrificial fellowship where believers share their lives, burdens, and resources with one another. The early church was not just meeting together; they were investing in each other’s lives in a way that demonstrated radical love and commitment. True Christian fellowship means moving beyond Sunday services and actively walking with each other in faith.
“The church isn’t just a building. It isn’t just a Sunday gathering. It isn’t even just a community. We are a family.”
The Church Is Called to Be Different From the World’s Expectations
The way the world perceives Christians often doesn’t match what we are called to be. A survey found that while Christians described themselves as loving and compassionate, non-believers saw them as judgmental and hypocritical. This disconnect means we must be intentional about living out the love of Jesus, living out our devotion—not just in words but in action. Our devotion to Christ should be evident in the way we love others, breaking stereotypes and truly reflecting His grace.
“Only 8% of non-Christians described Christians as humble. Only 11% said we were loving. Only 12% said we were compassionate. Church, that is a disconnect.”
Healing and Restoration Are Part of Being a Family
Many people carry church wounds—hurt from past experiences, broken relationships, or unmet expectations. God acknowledges that pain, and healing takes time. However, healing does not happen in isolation. The church, as a family, is responsible for seeking restoration, extending grace, and committing to love each other well. We cannot dismiss pain, but we also cannot let past hurt keep us from embracing the family God has given us.
“If the church has let you down—whether through broken relationships, unmet expectations, or even deep betrayal—I want you to hear me: That pain matters. And it matters to God.”
Your Next Step
The early believers in Acts didn’t just attend church—they devoted themselves to Scripture, prayer, worship, and fellowship. Their faith was not passive; it was active and transformative. As we close this Devoted series, the challenge is clear: Will we truly commit to being part of God’s family? Will we move from spectators to participants, from attendees to family members? This requires a choice—to step in, be known, and live out our faith in a way that draws others to Jesus.
“We change the world by getting back to the basics—by truly and authentically loving Jesus and living to make Him known.”
Reflection Questions:
What does it truly mean for the church to be a family, and how can you personally live that out in your faith community?
Have you ever experienced hurt in the church? How might God be calling you to heal, extend grace, or seek restoration?
In what ways is God calling you to deeper devotion—whether in Scripture, prayer, fellowship, or service?
Let these points encourage you this week, knowing that Providence isn’t a church you are a part of but a family you belong to.
