Introduction

The Christian faith is personal, but it is never individualistic. We are not meant to just follow the Lord on our own, praying and reading the Scriptures, without being connected with others in the body of Christ. God’s grace is poured out not just on us individually but also when we gather together as God’s people through various sacred activities. In fact, there are four sacred activities where God pours out His grace in special ways only because we are together in the presence of the Lord. To miss these activities is to miss out on the possible special outpouring of God’s grace during such times.

Four Sacred Activities

1. When we gather to pray together. (Acts 1:4-5; 1:12-14; 2:1-4) – Praying together is not a wasted activity. In fact, God can move powerfully when we come together to pray. Many of us miss out on such outpourings of God’s grace because we do not think prayer together is that important. We pray by ourselves but that is different from praying together.
2. When we gather to learn the word of God together. (Acts 2:42-47; 19:8-10) – Learning God’s word together in whatever context produces spiritual growth and maturity. It also produces enduring fruit that glorifies God. We don’t see much fruit in our lives because we do not value learning God’s word together.
3. When we gather to fellowship with one another. (Acts 5:12-16) – When we gather together for fellowship, the love of God becomes apparent. This is especially true when we are united as one community. The world will know that we are disciples of Jesus when we gather together for fellowship and when we love each other in the Lord.
4. When we gather to worship the Lord together. (Acts 13:1-3; 14:21-27) – Whenever we come together for worship, in whatever context, God’s grace is poured out on us. God dwells in the praises of His people. His presence guides us and by His grace, we are able to fulfill our mission.

Conclusion

1. Central Idea: “When we’re together, God’s grace will make us stronger.“
2. Don’t neglect our sacred activities because that’s how we grow stronger by God’s grace.
3. Examine your attitudes toward our sacred activities.

Discussion

1. Why do some people neglect or take for granted our sacred activities?
2. What would happen if we truly value our sacred activities?
3. What would you do to show that you truly value our sacred activities?