First, in Jesus’ own words, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10 (New International Version) ...
Second, the abundant life Jesus came to give was never intended to be lived in isolation, but to be lived in community. In response to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost, the first Church l
ived that abundant life in community, even as the community grew spiritually and numerically.
42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. 44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.
