These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brethren. Acts 1:14
Would you ever guess that something as great and as world transforming as Christianity was about to be launched by such a rag-tag bunch of people in virtual hiding in Jerusalem? There were only 120 of them, and they had no plans or programs to follow, apart from their Lord’s command to wait for the Holy Spirit. We have to commend their attitude, as our text relates, with prayers and supplications. These people were all different from what they had been before. The disciples, after their years of following Jesus, and then their forsaking Him in Gethsemane, were now properly chastened and humble. They had gotten their ill-advised fishing trip out of their system, and were now prepared to be obedient. Mary and the other women had been faithful helpers during Jesus ministry, and were now idle, but willing to move as soon as told. Jesus’ brothers had been skeptical and even antagonistic, but were now firmly on-side with whatever was to occur. A few other folks were there too, faithful followers who had been dismayed at the crucifixion of their Lord but had been overjoyed at His resurrection. An unlikely bunch, but it was what God was ready to use to launch one of the most exciting periods in earth’s history. And He is still using unlikely bunches.
If you consider all of the backgrounds of those in your Assembly fellowship, you will discover a broad mosaic. Some come from Assembly families, with all of the teaching and biblical background that was involved. Others, like myself, come from other Christian environments, needing to discover the truths of God’s plan and purpose for gathering His people together. Yet others come from families that knew not the Gospel and were involved in various levels of sinful lifestyles. Within such a range of family backgrounds, the members have a broad range of educational and occupational backgrounds, as well as a wide diversity of personalities and attitudes. Could God possibly use such diversity for His glory? He certainly can, and He does. Worship and Gospel work are unaffected – and even enhanced – by diversity among the Lord’s people.
When we think of Gospel work, we often note great differences in the evangelists who labour together during each Gospel series. Some are much more outgoing than others, some are more skilled at personal witnessing than others, some are more effective speakers than others. Often, we see an older preacher working with one who is much younger, allowing each to benefit from the experience and energy strengths of the other. Not only are some wonderful friendships and partnerships formed, but God is also honoured in the harmony that arises from such diversity.
Elsewhere, diversity is a great hindrance to organizations. Only among Christians can such great diversity be of such great blessing. – Jim MacIntosh