The Holy Spirit transforms people’s hearts.
Scripture: Acts 2:22-31,37-47
Central Truth
Acts records the beginning of the church as we know it. This community of believers grew quickly, and they clung to one another for meeting physical and spiritual needs. They took care of one another in a way we don’t usually experience, and they committed to growing in their faith together.
Key Question
What do you need to do to live more selflessly like the early church?
Keep in Mind
The early church was ideal, but it soon changed. People began to disagree and make selfish decisions. We can see the results of this even today. In fact, some of our students may have witnessed or felt the pain that comes from church disfunction. They may feel a little jaded when it comes to believing a modern church can operate like the early church.
Selfishness still affects churches, causing believers to lose sight of their purpose. It causes us to cling to our own possessions, money, and time rather than sharing them with others. We live more like islands instead of living together. God’s desire is for us to live selflessly connected to one another, taking care of one another and pushing one another to know Him more intimately. When we do this, the world notices!
APPLICATION
What sin has “pierced your heart,” and how can you turn away from it?
THE WIN
FOR THE STUDENT: When the Holy Spirit points out our sin, we have two choices: ignore His voice and continue in our sin or turn from it. For our students, turning from sin may mean they have to physically walk away from something—profane music, addiction, porn. But they must replace those sinful habits with godly habits—worship music, accountability, and so on. We don’t just turn from sin—we turn toward godly living.
FOR THE LEADER: Churches are made up of people—sinners, actually. And believers don’t always get it right. People sometimes forget to act in love and instead act out of pride or selfishness. But our actions can make a difference. Even if we’ve been hurt by a situation in church, we can be the change.
