Numerous sociologists still view Christianity as the faith that has multiplied the fastest in human history. From starting in Jerusalem after Pentecost the growth – in many instances under very trying circumstances – was astronomical. Christianity attracted and the numbers multiplied. What was the “secret sauce” they used? In cooking the “secret sauce” refers to a top-secret recipe that is passed from generation to generation. If we know this, surely, we can use it in our current circumstances as well. Thankfully, this secret sauce is provided in Acts 2:42-47. The initial church in Jerusalem used a specific approach that not only became a comfort for each Christian but also spreading through communities. The verb in verse 42 discloses the way four principles were applied. Being “devoted” is an enormously powerful word. Meaning that one is into something “heart body and soul”. Being fully committed to persevering, believing in what one is doing. Thus, saying a prayer was not only verbalise it quickly at the end of the day with eyes drooping and full of sleep. It was saying it with commitment. It was believing in what was said and following with commitment. If we could commit ourselves fully, putting Christ first, that will mean being devoted.
So, if devotion was the main ingredient, what four items made up the secret sauce?
- “The apostles teaching”
In those days that would be the teachings of the New Testament and Old Testament – as it was known to them. The New Testament was yet to be written. They listened to what the apostles said of Jesus, they applied it to their lives. They knew how to encourage each other, how to hold onto these words, and encouraged each other here-in. They became living “New Testaments” sharing what was known willingly. Gradually, as the New Testament was written, it replaced the spoken words.
- Experiencing “koinonia” which meant fellowship
People developed a communal identity in Christ which means they cared for each other, loved each other, supported each other, prayed with each other … and the list goes on. They had a deep-seated awareness of what it meant to be together in Christ and being the body in Christ. There was no space for trivial issues that could distract. If we only could rediscover this ingredient in its fullest sense of the word again!
- The “breaking of bread”
This phrase, in the New Testament, was used for serving communion. They reminded each other regularly of what Christ has done on the cross! Forgiveness, reconciliation, new life, the resurrection was central for the followers of Christ in the early church. They knew they could not cut themselves from this artery. Doing this would drove them into non-existence.
- Prayer
Prayer was central for them in their fellowship and individually. Being able to communicate with God, talk with Him, and sharing their life experiences with Him was a completely new experience, different from what they were used to. God was not a statue, or not living in the holiest of the Temple. He was there, listening. Their prayers became the place where they were regenerated. They could voice their whole existence to God and experienced God answering them. Prayer life was real.
This secret sauce remains the same. It assisted generation upon generation. We hear of followers of the Gospel who became heroes for the work of God because of this. It is valid and it is still here for us to use, freely. It is no secret. It can be your “sauce” too.