42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. (Acts 2:42)
2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. 3 Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. (Ephesians 4:2,3)
Will you devote yourself to the church’s teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and prayers, promising to further its purity and peace? (fifth question for joining the church- in the Book of Common Worship).
Thoughts: The promise of the covenant of joining the church here is to follow in the footsteps of the Apostles as outlined in scripture. So they we are to devote ourselves- meaning we promise to make it our heart's priority. The word "devote" is similar to the word "vow" or "vote" and it means to focus our will on something. We are to give ourselves to the teaching of the church (not our own opinions or unchurch opinions). We are to give ourselves to the fellowship- seeking to be WITH other believers. We are to give ourselves to the breaking of bread- a sign of rubbing elbows and communion- not just communion but also simply having meals together. We are to devote ourselves to prayer- giving ourselves to not just pray individually but as a group.
Prayer: So give me the will, time and life to give myself to you and your church, O Lord.
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