The People We Know

Inspiration MinistriesBy Inspiration Ministries2 Minutes

How was the Gospel spread? After the Holy Spirit fell on the Day of Pentecost, thousands were saved. We see these early Believers boldly preaching the Word, praying for the sick, and unleashing God’s miraculous power. Many wonders and signs took place.

But relationships also were important. We see Believers “together.” They were concerned about each other, sharing “all things in common” and helping those who were in need. And they broke bread together in continual fellowship. This was the spiritual environment in which God “was adding to their number day by day those who were being saved” (Acts 2:1-47).

Jesus Himself demonstrated the importance of these interpersonal relationships. After being delivered from demon-possession, a man wanted to travel with Jesus. Instead, Jesus told him to “go home” and tell others what had happened. This pattern continued when Jesus interacted with a Samaritan woman, who “went into the city” and told everyone about Jesus (John 4:28-29).

These patterns continued in the early church. In fact, recent studies of the church life in the first few centuries have confirmed the importance of personal relationships. These studies have confirmed that “social networks” were the “basic mechanism” through which many conversions took place. There was a tremendous impact when Believers interacted with unbelievers. People saw the difference Jesus made in the lives of their relatives and friends, and this gave their testimonies great impact.

This principle still is true. We all are called to be witnesses to what Jesus has done in our lives. He commanded us, “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations” (Matthew 28:19). This means preaching and praying. It also means telling others what Jesus has done in our lives. It involves reaching out and being a friend—someone that others can trust, who is genuinely concerned and ready to listen. We must witness through our lives and lifestyles.