1. They all spoke the word of God boldly (23-31)

After being threatened and released, Peter and John reported back to the believers. They prayed together, remembering who they were praying to, their Sovereign, Creator God. Recalling Psalm 118:2 they rejoiced in his full control and that even though rulers try to conspire against Jesus, his will is always done. Rather than being cowered, they had two prayer requests, to be able to speak God's word with great boldness, and for the Lord to stretch out his healing hand in the name of the Lord Jesus. They were filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.

2. One in heart and mind (32-37)

This early church was one in heart and mind. They valued people more than possessions and shared everything they had. At the heart of their community was the apostles' witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and much grace was upon them all. When Jesus' resurrection is central to every heart and mind, selfishness is replaced by love and sacrificial giving. A man named Joseph was an example of this, he sold a field and brought the money to the apostles to be distributed to those in need. They called him Barnabas, he would later encourage Paul and John Mark (9:27; 11:22-26; 15:37-39).