Pastor Aaron Buer continues the COURAGEOUS CHURCH series by exploring the early church's generosity. We discover how the first believers shared their possessions freely, motivated by their understanding of God's grace. We are challenged to shift our mindset toward grace, the mission of Jesus and stewardship. We see how God's undeserved favor naturally flows outward in service to others. This message challenges us to see God as the owner of everything. We are encouraged to act with courage to bless and encourage others by serving.

The early church in Acts 2 was marked by five core commitments, but at the heart of their devotion was a life of intimate prayer and overflowing praise. These weren't religious duties checked off a list—prayer and praise were the vital signs of a community transformed by the reality of Jesus's resurrection.

From the apostles maintaining their regular rhythm of temple prayer to believers gathering in homes with glad and sincere hearts, the early church shows us that prayer isn't confined to specific times or places but permeates every aspect of life.

Today, we face the danger of knowing about prayer and praise without actually living a life marked by them—of having the right theology without the transforming practice. As we explore what it means to be people of praise, we must ask ourselves: Does our life pulse with the rhythm of prayer and praise that characterized the courageous early church?

Pastor Aaron Buer begins our Courageous Church series by exploring the powerful movement of God in the early church and what we can learn from their example. We discover that the early church's impact came from their courageous commitment to the apostles' teaching, which is the foundation of our New Testament today. We're challenged to devote ourselves wholeheartedly to God's Word through weekly worship, daily Bible reading, and Scripture memorization, trusting that the Holy Spirit will transform us as our minds are renewed. This message calls us to embrace the same commitments that led to revival in the early church, believing God wants to move powerfully through us today.