We Believe: In the Catholic Church

"Then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them. And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need. So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved." - Acts 2:41-47 

Reflection

The term "Catholic" in the context of the Christian Church refers to the universal body of believers who follow Jesus Christ. This passage from Acts provides a beautiful picture of the early church and its commitment to the teachings of the apostles, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. The early Christians were united in their faith and shared their lives with one another, demonstrating the true essence of the universal church. 

The early church was characterized by its devotion to the apostles' teaching, which laid the foundation for their faith and practice. They were committed to fellowship, which involved sharing their lives and resources with one another. This sense of community was so strong that they sold their possessions and goods to support those in need. Their unity and generosity were a powerful testimony to the world around them. 

The breaking of bread and prayers were central to their gatherings, reminding them of Jesus' sacrifice and their dependence on God. The early church experienced many wonders and signs through the apostles, which strengthened their faith and drew others to Christ. Their daily gatherings in the temple and homes were marked by gladness, simplicity of heart, and praise to God. As a result, the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. 

This passage challenges us to reflect on our own commitment to the universal church. Are we devoted to the teachings of the apostles, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer? Do we share our lives and resources with one another, demonstrating the love of Christ to the world? The early church serves as a model for us to follow, reminding us of the importance of unity, generosity, and devotion to God. 

Personal Application

As I reflect on the early church, I am reminded of the importance of being an active and committed member of the universal body of believers. It is easy to become isolated and focused on my own needs, but the example of the early church challenges me to live in community with others. I am encouraged to devote myself to the teachings of the apostles, to seek fellowship with other believers, and to participate in the breaking of bread and prayer. 

I am also reminded of the importance of generosity and sharing my resources with those in need. The early church's willingness to sell their possessions and goods to support others is a powerful example of sacrificial love. I am challenged to examine my own heart and consider how I can be more generous and supportive of those around me. 

Finally, I am encouraged to live with gladness and simplicity of heart, praising God in all circumstances. The early church's joy and gratitude were evident in their daily lives, and I am inspired to cultivate a similar attitude of thankfulness and praise. 

Thought-Provoking Questions

1. How can you devote yourself more fully to the teachings of the apostles and the fellowship of believers? 
2. In what ways can you share your resources and support those in need within your community? 
3. How can you cultivate a heart of gladness and simplicity, praising God in all circumstances? 
4. What steps can you take to strengthen your commitment to the universal church and live in unity with other believers? 

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of the early church and their commitment to the teachings of the apostles, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. Help me to be an active and committed member of the universal body of believers. Guide me in sharing my resources and supporting those in need. Cultivate in me a heart of gladness and simplicity, and help me to praise You in all circumstances. Strengthen my commitment to the universal church and help me to live in unity with other believers. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen. 

Written by Sarah Leasure