Albert Einstein said the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. The definition of devotion, according to Merriam Webster, is the fact or state of being ardently dedicated and loyal. What is the difference between being dedicated and holding on to something while expecting change? Maybe it’s difficult to tell where the line is between insanity and devotion. But one thing is for sure–the early believers were devoted!
Jesus taught every day in the temple: “And every day he was teaching in the temple, but at night he went out and lodged on the mount called Olivet” (Luke 21:37 ESV). After Jesus ascended the believers “devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and prayers. . . And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts” (vs. 42, 46).
When Paul was in Ephesus people in the synagogue spoke evil about the Way before the congregation, so Paul “withdrew from them and took the disciples with him, reasoning daily in the hall of Tyrannus” (Acts 19:9). Luke records that this went on for two years so that all the people in Asia heard the word of God. Imagine what an incredible feat that was! If we are going to connect God to others we need to do it every day. It is a discipline. But so is learning. People actually showed up to listen every day. We are more connected today globally than at any other time in history. So how are we using that technology to remain devoted to the Word?
