1. The Jesus Way Session 7 – Share with Jesus’ People

2. Introduction Luke’s second instalment – Acts Easter joy followed by Pentecost power Public launch of Jesus’ new people

3. Peter proclaims Jesus as king New life of Jesus’ resurrection Necessity of Jesus’ death New gift of the Holy Spirit Many responded that day –and have done ever since

4. Jesus’ followers respond: a vital model (Acts 2:42) ‘They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.’ Incredible balance: –biblical teaching –practical concern for those in need –proper valuing of the Lord’s Supper –commitment to a life of prayer and worship

5. The fellowship of the Holy Spirit: practical sharing ‘Fellowship’ - unique relationship between believers because all had Jesus’ Spirit New believers shared not just common faith but also common life Not just a spiritual reality: ‘having or doing things in common’ (sharing) Our fellowship should also be practical

6. Jesus’ new family: God building his people Other believers are our new family Belong to Jesus and to his new people Jesus’ family: characterised by agape Expressing love to those we dislike

7. The new ‘people of God’ “I will make you my own people, and I will be your God” Nation of Israel: the ‘covenant people’ Jesus now founded new ‘people of God’ God’s people defined only by faith in Jesus

8. Biblical images of Jesus’ relationship to his followers The vine & its branches The head & the body The bridegroom & his bride The chief foundation stone & the building constructed upon it The builder & the house The eldest brother in a family

9. Jesus and the church An organic link between Jesus and believers Jesus loves the church and died for her We should care for each other’s needs and build up Jesus’ church God calls us to himself through Jesus and calls us to love Jesus’ church

10. Loving God’s people Loving Jesus means loving his people Not always easy! Requires Jesus’ love Holy Spirit in us is the channel for this ‘Agape’ – the greatest gift, the first fruit of the Spirit

11. Building-block 7 in following Jesus his way: Share with Jesus’ People – They are Now Your Family!