There are many things that identify believers and set them apart from the world, but the one thing that trumps all the rest is when believers love one another as Christ loves them.
The early church understood Christlike love and fellowship. Acts 2:44-47 says,
“And all those who had believed were together and had all things in common; and they began selling their property and possessions and were sharing them with all, as anyone might have need. Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord was adding to their number day by day those who were being saved.”
The picture here is of organic, real life, day to day love and care among believers such that they even sold off their excess possessions so that those who lacked could have what they needed. Too often in the church, it is assumed that, if someone has a need, they must not be organized, they must lack faith, or they must be in sin. Too often we treat people who are hurting and suffering by judging them, alienating them, and ignoring them, hoping they, like a pesky insect, will just go away and leave us alone to worship and praise God. This is not love. The early church loved being around each other, not because it was the right thing to do in a legalistic sense, but because they really enjoyed one another. Their hearts were full of gladness, sincerity, and the praise of God.
