3D...Discover, Develop, Deploy- Session 3

In Acts 1, we see the early followers of Christ develop as individuals and as a group. There are some steps of development that they took that will benefit each of us:

1. Develop a Core of Close Relationships- v. 12-14
The eleven remaining disciples (following the death of Judas the betrayer) had shared in some amazing experiences. By spending 3 years with Jesus, they had been first-hand witnesses of His healings; of Lazarus coming forth; of His miracles of loaves and fishes; of His walking on water; of His resurrection.

What kept them together after His resurrection? Who and what did they rely on as their world was changing around them? We read in verse 14 they continued in unity and prayer. When times were tough, they went to God in prayer and stuck together.

Who is always there for you in time of need? Who can you call when you receive an emergency call late at night and you need someone to keep your kids so you can race to the hospital? Who will pray for you and be there for you, and with you, no matter what?

You need a core of close relationships. But you must develop those.

2. Develop Relationships Outside Your Core- v. 15-22
Gathered together around the 11 in those days was a group of Christ-followers numbering about 120 in total (v. 15). Though not called to be disciples in the sense the 11 were, these men had been involved with the ministry of Christ from the beginning (v.21). And one of them was needed to join the core, the 11 (v.22).

Having a core of close relationships is a goal but it's also important to develop relationships outside your core. One effective way to develop new relationships is to serve as a mentor. Plus, it's biblical (Titus 2:1-8). Everyone should seek out a mentor but also be available to serve as a mentor. The 11 had obviously invested in the 120 because they were about to ask one of them to join them.

3. Develop an Expanded Core- v. 23-26
For the 11 to accomplish what they were tasked to do (Acts 1:8), they knew they couldn't remain the same. After prayer and discussion (v. 23,24), Matthias was added to the core.

In expanding their core, the 11 connected with believers ("he was numbered with the eleven apostles"- v. 26) but the apostles also connected with untold numbers of unbelievers and, under the power of the Holy Spirit, changed the world.