The Early Church in Jerusalem

Introduction: A Glimpse into the Past

Dear reader, as we turn the pages of ecclesiastical history, we encounter the early church in Jerusalem, a community of believers whose way of life has sparked both admiration and debate throughout the centuries. Is this church the archetype that all future congregations should strive to emulate? Is it the dream church, a utopian vision of unity and devotion? Or is it simply a chapter in the grand narrative of Christianity, significant but not a template for all times?

The Communal Ideal

The early church in Jerusalem is often romanticized for its communal lifestyle, where believers "had all things in common" and distributed goods to those in need. This aspect, while noble, does not align with the reality of our church today. Is this disparity a failure on our part, or is it an understanding that communal living was a cultural response of that era, not a prescriptive command for all?

Enduring Pillars of the Church

Despite differences in communal living, certain pillars of the church have stood the test of time: the teaching of the apostles, fellowship, the Lord's Supper, and prayer. These are not mere traditions but the very essence of what it means to be part of the Body of Christ. They are the unshakeable foundations upon which the church stands, regardless of the epoch or culture.

The Danger of Idealisation

When we compare our church to the early church in Jerusalem, we must tread carefully. One risk is that we may devalue our present congregation, overlooking its virtues and the work of God within it. Conversely, we may fall into the trap of modern arrogance, dismissing the practices of the early church as outdated without understanding their spiritual significance.

Historical Context and the Evolution of the Church

Throughout history, churches have sought to measure themselves against the early church. In the 5th century, there was nostalgia for the "glorious and supreme" power of the church's early days. Yet, the model of Jerusalem was not replicated in other communities like Ephesus, Corinth, or Antioch, especially regarding communal living. This suggests that while the spirit of the early church was influential, its specific practices were not meant to be universal mandates.

The Caution of Bonhoeffer

Dietrich Bonhoeffer's warning against the peril of idealized images serves as a poignant reminder that our pursuit should not be the restoration of an original state. The church must not fracture under the weight of unrealistic expectations, for it is through God's grace that we are shaped, not our finite imaginations of perfection.

The Modified Tradition of Community

Today, the "community of goods" takes on a different form, not through the pooling of property but through diverse diaconal work that reflects the church's care and compassion. This evolution shows that the essence of communal support remains, albeit expressed differently to suit contemporary needs.

The Realities of Early Christian Life

We must dispel the illusion that the early church was a harmonious assembly without conflict. Disputes and tensions were part and parcel of church life then, as they are now. The unity of the church was not found in uniform rituals but in the shared faith in Jesus Christ as the cornerstone.

Constancy and Steadfastness: A Lesson for Today

Our era is marked by a lack of constancy and steadfastness. Traditions are discarded, the authority of the Bible is questioned, and prayer is often neglected. Reflecting on the early church's dedication to apostolic teaching, fellowship, sacraments, and prayer can inspire us to cultivate these disciplines with renewed vigour and commitment.

The Church as Communio Sanctorum

The church remains distinct from other societal organizations, not merely a club or commune, but a communion of saints, sanctified by our holy God. The awe that filled every soul in the early church is a testament to the divine origin and transformative power of the Christian congregation.

Conclusion: Embracing the Vision, Not the Veneer

Dear congregation, as we consider the early church in Jerusalem, let us embrace its vision—the kingdom of God—rather than merely its outward practices. When we gather for worship and participate in the sacraments, we touch the eternal, and we bear the mark of God's perfected people. Our calling is not to replicate the past but to embody the timeless principles of our faith: teaching, fellowship, sacrament, and prayer. This is how we honor the legacy of the early church and fulfill our role in the ongoing story of God's people.

Amen.