Boldness before Community

We currently live in a culture in which the idea of "community" has become popular in Christian lingo. It is used to communicate togetherness, relational living, and a number of other things. In the midst of it all, I'm finding that many Christians are seeking community but do not understand the true essence of community. A key scripture used to describe evangelical community is found in Acts 4:32

Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common.

However, what many don't teach is that this kind of community was the result of men and women living lives that where selfless and bold. prior to Acts 4:32 we see the Disciples being charged as criminals (who are eventually released) because of their message. This message was powerful, life changing, and real; so much so the message affected entire regions, government, and culture. What is so amazing is that after being persecuted and threatened, they gather together and pray for greater BOLDNESS. This is so crazy (in a good way...lol)!

So, before you and I desire "community" let's make sure our lives are ones that can sustain it. Let us make sure we live selflessly and BOLDLY before our God, our brothers, and our enemies.

Acts 4:27-30

“For truly against Your holy Servant Jesus, whom You anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles and the people of Israel, were gathered together to do whatever Your hand and Your purpose determined before to be done. Now, Lord, look on their threats, and grant to Your servants that with all boldness they may speak Your word, by stretching out Your hand to heal, and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of Your holy Servant Jesus.” And when they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness.

Recovering Biblical Manhood & Womenhood by John Piper and Wayne Grudem

"In Recovering Biblical Manhood and Womanhood, twenty-two men and women commit their talents to produce the most thorough response yet to evangelical feminism. All who are concerned with the fundamental question of the proper relationship between men and women in home, church, and society will want to read this important book." - Association of Theological Booksellers Association of Theological Booksellers

"The best book in print today on this subject. A very important contribution in an age that needs to know." - Christian Literature WorldChristian Literature World

"Piper and Grudem have achieved a commendable breadth of subject area supported by clear, specific, and precise treatment-all of which consistently make the case for 'biblically balanced male leadership' in home, church, and society." - Michael G. Maudlin, Discipleship Journal

"Without a doubt this is the most impressive and comprehensive statement of a conservative evangelical understanding of these issues to be published to date. No one seriously involved in seeking a responsible Christian engagement with such concerns can afford to ignore this magisterial undertaking." - Timothy George, Dean, Beeson Divinity School; executive editor, Christianity Today

"A trumpet-call to the church at large to wake up to the issue. Yet for a book that pulls no punches, it remains reasoned and courteous. It also sets an excellent model in the principles of biblical debate." - Graham Keith, Banner of Truth Trust

"This significant contribution to the ongoing debates over roles and liberties consciously seeks to be governed by Scripture rather than by contemporary culture. Headship by men is a responsibility from God, not a privilege for their own advantage. Much of the confusion of our day is laid at the feet of men who have failed in their role by being either domineering or domesticated. Here is strong medicine for healthy balance with full respect for women and men in their intended roles." - William Smallman, The Baptist Bulletin

TheNexLev promo video