After the Resurrection Part II

The period between Jesus' resurrection and ascension offers crucial insights for the modern church about moving forward after Easter. During those 40 days, Jesus appeared to His disciples, preparing them for what was to come. When He ascended, angels redirected the disciples' focus from gazing into heaven to the work at hand. The early believers responded by continuing with one accord in prayer and supplication, demonstrating two essential elements that mark every move of God: unity and prayer.

The foundation of spiritual growth remains remarkably simple: read the Bible and pray regularly. These aren't burdensome requirements but life-giving practices that don't demand perfection. Acts 2:42-47 provides a blueprint for church growth, showing how the early church continued steadfastly in apostolic doctrine, fellowship, communion, and prayers. They maintained unity, gladness, and simplicity of heart, which resulted in God adding to the church daily.

Unfortunately, many churches today struggle with division rather than unity. Many Christians exhaust themselves fighting battles God never asked them to fight, like King Josiah who died young because he entered a battle he wasn't invited to join. Additionally, many believers carry bitterness toward clergy, other Christians, or even God Himself. This bitterness acts like a root that springs up and defiles many. True forgiveness means choosing to be a releaser rather than a retainer of offenses, focusing on biblical basics rather than cultural battles that divide the body of Christ.