How can we encourage others to experience the awe described in Acts 2:43? Key Verse “A sense of awe came over everyone, and the apostles performed many wonders and signs.” – Acts 2:43 Awe in the Early Church • The Spirit’s outpouring (Acts 2:1–4) produced visible, undeniable works of God. • Devotion to “the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer” (Acts 2:42) prepared hearts to perceive God’s hand. • Awe flowed naturally from witnessing the literal fulfillment of Jesus’ promise in John 14:12. What Scripture Calls “Awe” • Reverent fear that recognizes God’s power and holiness (Psalm 33:8; Exodus 15:11). • Marveling at His works and ways (Luke 5:26; Psalm 145:5). • Grateful submission to His grandeur (Hebrews 12:28). Cultivating the Atmosphere Where Awe Thrives 1. Uncompromised Scripture – Elevate the Word publicly and privately; it is “living and active” (Hebrews 4:12). – Read, explain, and apply it literally, letting God speak for Himself. 2. Expectant Prayer – Pray big because God “is able to do immeasurably more” (Ephesians 3:20). – Share answered prayers so others see God’s fingerprints. 3. Christ-Centered Fellowship – Meet regularly for worship, meals, and mutual care (Acts 2:46). – Testimonies of God’s faithfulness kindle fresh wonder. 4. Visible Acts of Love – Serve tangible needs; generosity in Acts 2:45 amplified awe. – Practical compassion makes the invisible God visible (1 John 4:12). 5. Obedient Faith – Encourage prompt, joyful obedience; miracles often meet surrendered hearts (John 2:5–11). – Celebrate even small steps, reinforcing that God rewards faith (Hebrews 11:6). Simple Ways to Encourage Others Today • Share a recent “God-moment” at the dinner table or small group. • Begin gatherings with a brief reading from the Psalms that exalts God’s majesty. • Keep a communal journal of answered prayers and providential encounters. • Invite newcomers to serve alongside seasoned believers; joint ministry reveals God’s power. • Memorize awe-inspiring verses together—Habakkuk 2:14; Revelation 15:3–4. Guarding Awe from Familiarity • Beware routine that forgets the miracle of salvation (Psalm 103:2). • Confess sin quickly; unrepentance dulls spiritual senses (Isaiah 59:2). • Retreat periodically for silence and creation’s witness (Romans 1:20). Living Wonders Daily As the early church demonstrated, when God’s truth is honored, prayer is fervent, love is visible, and obedience is immediate, the Lord supplies fresh signs of His presence. Encourage others into that rhythm, and the “sense of awe” will follow—because the same God still delights to leave people breathless before His glory. |
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