22/07/2021 - IT IS NECESSARY TO PERSEVERE UNTIL THE END

• 
• 
• 
• 

And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. Acts 2.42

The examples left by Jesus must be followed, for they will become the best teachers we will ever have: For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you (John 13.15). The Master commanded us to do everything that He did: Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father (John 14.12).

The three thousand new converts, who heard the first sermon of the Church of Christ, spoken by Peter, knew the importance of persevering in the apostles’ doctrine. Well, the same must be done by the new converts of today; after all, no one can fail to keep the commandments of the Lord. The apostles’ doctrine was the one they had heard from Jesus since there was no New Testament book, or epistle, written yet.

One of the ways Christ taught was to take what was said in the Old Testament and give the interpretation, so His disciples would not make mistakes. Today, we have the Bible on paper, on computers, and cell phones. Therefore, it is easy for people to search for what the Word says on any subject. However, many do not seek to know God’s direction and, as a result, they become weak in faith and do not win their battles. And you shall know the truth… (John 8.32).

They persevered in the communion. For as long as there is division in a heart – whether or not to obey the leadership of the church, placed to give growth to the divine work – there will be problems in the house of the Lord. Whoever does not serve Him with a heart full of fear and in complete submission to His Word will never enjoy the good things bought by Jesus and given to those who love God.

The breaking of bread was a sacred act in every way. With the conversion of the lost, the church had the responsibility to welcome them. Being saved also meant being thrown out of the house and hated by those who remained in Judaism, considered an enemy and a traitor. But the God of wonders worked signs and prodigies continually. The newly saved were hated for the fact that they loved Christ!

Those who accepted the Gospel tasted in the flesh the fact that they had to leave the world and sin for the sake of the Savior, for in them were fulfilled the words of Jesus: Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake (Matthew 24.9). In our country, there have been days when this has happened with many, who have even lost jobs because they are the Lord’s.

Certainly, this happens in many parts of the world, where religious fanaticism is used by the devil to oppress people. This will still happen in other places on Earth, but God will keep His children. Many will be betrayed by family and friends, but we are warned to persevere to the end (Matthew 24.13). God is faithful all the time!

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares