Do We Have Simplicity of Heart?

In the book of Acts, Luke uses a beautiful phrase—simplicity of heart—to describe the attitude of the early Church members. As we move forward from Pentecost, it’s worth reflecting on how those first disciples are portrayed and asking ourselves: Does this describe us?

“So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart.” (Acts 2:46, NKJV)

The Greek word translated as simplicity (aphelotés, Strong’s G858) comes from a root meaning “without rocks”—smooth, plain, or free of obstacles. Figuratively, it conveys the idea of something uncomplicated, sincere, and unburdened.

The hearts of those early believers were open and receptive to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship with one another. Nothing stood in the way of their joy, learning, or connection. Even in the simple act of sharing meals from house to house, their unity and gladness were evident.

Many long-time members may remember their own early days of coming into the truth and the immediate connection with others at Sabbath services or during the Feast, and the joy of being invited to share meals and fellowship. Yet over time, that simplicity of heart can begin to fade.

What causes this change?

What are the “rocks” that can gradually form in our hearts—barriers that hinder fellowship, dampen joy, or sow division?

We see an early example of this shift in Acts 6:1:

“Now in those days, when the disciples were growing in number, a complaint arose on the part of the Greek-speaking Jews against the native Hebraic Jews, because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food.” (Acts 6:1, NET)

As the Church grew, tensions began to surface. Old cultural biases and lingering divisions reemerged, threatening the unity that had once characterized the new converts. The hearts that were once smooth and free from obstacles were becoming rocky—shaped again by past perspectives and social divisions.

This same tendency can affect us today. Jesus directly warned against developing attitudes that marginalize others. In Matthew 18, He placed a child in the midst of His disciples and said:

“Take heed that you do not despise one of these little ones.” (Matthew 18:10)

Young children—often overlooked in society—became Jesus' object lesson. He wanted His disciples, the future leaders of the Church, to understand that in God’s family, everyone matters. No one is beneath dignity and care.

Peter reiterated this lesson in his own letters to the Church:

“Honor all people. Love the family of believers.” (1 Peter 2:17, NET)

And Paul reinforced the point with a powerful metaphor comparing the Church to the human body:

“And the parts of the body that we think to be less honorable, on these we bestow greater honor.” (1 Corinthians 12:23)

The Church of God is meant to be a place where every member is valued, respected, and honored. The early Church exemplified this with hearts full of gladness and free from the divisions that plagued the surrounding culture.

Yet simplicity of heart can erode if we allow pride, resentment, judgment, or unresolved offenses to creep in. When we find ourselves becoming guarded, critical, or disconnected, it may be a sign that “rocks” are forming in our hearts.

If we sense that the joy and openness we once had is slipping away, let’s humbly ask God to renew that simplicity within us.

Let’s uphold and remain rooted in the kind of heart that characterized the early believers—a heart overflowing with joy in walking together in God’s truth.

As we approach the blessing of God’s weekly Sabbath, let me conclude with encouraging words from Paul written to the Corinthian Church of God: "Become complete." Be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you. (2 Cor. 13:11)