“They were together as one”

EATAP Lesson 2

“And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place” Acts 2:1 (KJV)

Over the years of studying the Bible, it is noticeable that there is nothing like random words in the diction of the scriptures. The words are carefully chosen for a particular meaning. The writers may not have been conscious of this but the Holy Spirit, who inspired all scriptures, definitely had a purpose for every single word in scriptures.

Note how the King James Version renders the translation “…with one accord in one place”. They were just not in one place but with a common understanding. This understanding begs the question; “Is it possible for people to stay together in one place without one accord?” The answer is definitely yes.

Some times people attend prayer meetings, church services and social gatherings with miss-feelings about the purpose and timing of such occasions. Whereas some may feel the service is taking too long others may feel the Holy Spirit can not be timed. As many times divergent views like those mentioned above exist, it proves the fact that it is possible to have a gathering without one accord. Nevertheless, Christian gatherings must have unity in thought and action in order to achieve results. Jesus says “Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven” (Matt 18:19 KJV).

Agreeing with each other goes beyond a simple gathering or holding of hands. It is uniformity of thoughts and desires (both heart and mind) at any particular time. The disciples did not know when the promise of the Holy Spirit would be fulfilled. Theologians put the time from the ascension of Jesus to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit as ten days. It is safe to speculate that some of the disciples expected an earlier fulfilment of the promise. Think of it as attending a prayer meeting that develops into a deliverance session. In the beginning all are excited to see a miracle but after a couple of minutes, prayer warriors still “struggle” with the demon. As minutes turn into hours frustration becomes inevitable. In the case of the disciples ten days was more than enough time to get tired and complain. However, the Bible records no such adverse reaction from the disciples. They stayed focused and united in their expectation. Consequently, their hope was met with exceptional power and manifestation.

In carrying out the mission of the church, the devil will always seek to drive the children of God to their limits. He will work against the unity and agreement of the group. Staying united, as the disciples did, will bring success. The gifts of the Holy Spirit work in the unity of the church and if they (the gifts) are a requirement for evangelism then it cannot be emphasised enough the need to work in one accord.

How do we remain united as workers of evangelism?

1. Respect the authority of the Holy Spirit.
2. There should be only one leader, a person of good report and spiritual growth in the word of God. Team members must respect this leader as one working in the authority of the Holy Spirit.
3. Once a part of the group accept and follow the instructions of the leader. Sometimes it may seem the leader is not conforming to the will of God. it is no reason to rebel against the instructions of such a leader openly. The direction of the leader unifies the house, so the moment one openly challenge his or her leadership, that one opens the group to disunity.
4. Pray that the leader will always project the will of God.
5. Pray for yourself that you will be a good follower.
6. Pray for the group that it may work in one accord always.

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Evangelism According to the Acts of the Apostles (EATAP)