Presumptuous Sin and Jealousy

December 2nd, 2025

Summary

This sermon focuses on the importance of unity in the church, drawing from Acts 4:32-37 which describes the early church's remarkable unity where believers were of one heart and mind, sharing everything in common. The pastor emphasizes that unity is the most crucial element for a healthy church, more important than doctrine or other factors. He warns against jealousy and presumptuous sin, using the upcoming story of Ananias and Sapphira as an example of how jealousy can destroy church unity. The message highlights the beauty of the early church's selfless giving and mutual care, while cautioning against the dangers of pride, entitlement, and division that can tear apart congregations.

Daily Devotional Link

Intro Prayer

Heavenly Father, we come before You with grateful hearts, thanking You for the privilege of gathering together as Your people. As we study Your Word today about unity in the church, we ask that You would open our hearts and minds to what You want to teach us. Help us to set aside our own agendas and pride, and make us receptive to Your Spirit's leading. Show us how we can better love one another and maintain the unity that You desire for Your church. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.

Ice Breaker

What's one thing you appreciate most about being part of a church community, and how has someone in the church shown kindness or encouragement to you recently?

Key Verses

  • Acts 4:32
  • Acts 4:33
  • Acts 4:34-37
  • John 17:20-23
  • Psalm 133:1
  • Romans 10:9-10

Questions

  • What does it mean for believers to be 'of one heart and mind' as described in Acts 4:32, and how can we cultivate this unity in our church today?
  • The early church shared everything in common out of love, not compulsion. How can we develop a generous spirit toward one another without it becoming legalistic?
  • Pastor Jerry mentioned that unity is more important than doctrine in the church. How do you balance maintaining biblical truth while preserving unity among believers?
  • What are some common sources of jealousy or division that you've observed in churches, and how can we guard against these in our own hearts?
  • How does Jesus' prayer in John 17:20-23 for believers to be one challenge the way we treat fellow Christians, especially those we disagree with?
  • The sermon mentioned that when churches fight, 'young Christians scatter and a wolf gets them.' How does our unity (or lack thereof) impact those who are new to faith?
  • What's the difference between helping people in genuine need versus enabling those who feel entitled to assistance? How do we show biblical love while maintaining wisdom?
  • Pastor Jerry emphasized humility as essential for unity. Can you share an example of how humility has helped resolve conflict in your relationships or church experience?

Life Application

This week, identify one person with whom you may have tension or disagreement. Take the initiative to reach out to them with humility and love, seeking to understand their perspective and work toward unity. If there are no current conflicts, look for someone you can encourage or serve in a practical way, demonstrating the 'one heart and mind' spirit of the early church.

Key Takeaways

  • Unity is the most important element in a healthy church, even more crucial than doctrine or programs
  • The early church's sharing was motivated by love and gratitude, not compulsion or socialism - it was descriptive of their situation, not prescriptive for all churches
  • Jealousy and pride are dangerous threats to church unity that must be addressed quickly and decisively
  • True humility involves being willing to give up what we want for the sake of others and the greater good of the church
  • Church conflicts and splits cause tremendous damage to the gospel witness and often scatter young believers who get hurt in the process

Ending Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for the example of the early church and their beautiful unity. Help us to examine our own hearts for any jealousy, pride, or selfishness that could harm the unity of our church family. Give us humble hearts that are quick to forgive, slow to take offense, and eager to serve one another. May our love for each other be so evident that the world will know we are Your disciples. Protect our church from division and help us to be peacemakers who build up rather than tear down. Use us to encourage and restore those who have fallen, just as Barnabas did with John Mark. We pray for Your grace upon grace to be evident in our lives and relationships. In Jesus' name, Amen.