The infant Church of Acts chapter two was guided by the Apostles in four areas of commitment. These areas were developed by the Holy Spirit and communicated by the Apostles (Acts 2:42).

First, those having been added to the Church by the Lord were devoted (committed) to the Apostle's Teaching. It seemed while the preaching and teaching was occurring the Added Ones were present to learn.

Second, those having been added to the Church by the Lord were devoted (committed) to Fellowship. Fellowship can be defined as "Participation." To participate in service and share to provide what others may need. That need may be physical or spiritual and the Added Ones were participating in service.

Third, the Added Ones were devoted (committed) to Breaking the Bread. This was most probably speaking of the Lord's Supper. To worship God, whether by taking the Lord's Supper, in prayer for others, in congregational singing, giving of gifts, hearing the Word proclaimed, and allowing the Spirit to transform their lives, was important to the Added Ones.

Fourth, they devoted (committed) themselves to Prayer. Prayer was in the name of Jesus for the purpose of His will to be accomplished.

The early disciples were instructed that the righteous were heard and had effective prayers. A committed prayer life reveals trust in God to provide. It also is a personal testimony of the believer's trust and submission to God as His servant. The early Added Ones were committed to Prayer.

Each of these elements are protection for the Church's Added Ones.

Each of us who have truly accepted Christ as Lord have been added to the Church by Him. Read it, "Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day... The Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved." (Acts 2:41 & 47 - NIV)

Each element of worship drew the Added One closer to the Lord who added them. Also, the Lord could work through the disciples to bless the other members of the Church by genuine Fellowship and Prayer.

As the Word of God continued to grow in the heart and mind of each member their love and service became greater. Satan would attempt to destroy them by stirring up the Jewish leaders, or a Roman King, or even a non-committed disciple. Yet, the growing body of Christ was able to discern good from evil, pray effectively, and help each other through difficult times. In all this, God was able to work through the Added Ones to add more.

When we don't heed the instruction and example revealed to us in Scripture we give Satan an advantage. God has brought us into the Church as protection. Membership in Christ's Church is being in Christ. In Christ is in the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. As a people in Christ it is only natural to recognize the importance of these simple elements. It is also important to practice them.

Devotion is commitment. The early Church was committed to Christ and each other. As they continued their commitment they stood in the Grace of God. It was a spiritual place of strength, wisdom, provision, and protection. It still is.