Examining Some Churches (1) The Church at Jerusalem NT Church 2017-2018

The Church at Jerusalem Began on Pentecost (Acts 2) Foretold in prophecy (cf. Isaiah 2:2-4, Joel 2:28-32, etc.) Began with 3000 souls and grew from there Faced numerous challenges both internally and externally

The Church at Jerusalem Faced numerous challenges both internally and externally There were material concerns and financial struggles Persecutions that intensified Eventually their resources were depleted and they needed help Opportunity for others to help them!

Qualities of the Jerusalem Church There was fellowship Acts 2:42 “Join participation” – addressed our spiritual bond that brings us together to worship and work, and to stand with one another. Biblical fellowship is not about fun and social interaction, though that would occur

Qualities of the Jerusalem Church They worshipped together Acts 2:42 The “apostle’s doctrine” – Romans 1:16, 1 Corinthians 15:1-2 They heard it regularly and taught it to others Breaking of bread – here, most likely the Lord’s Supper (Acts 20:7, cf. Matthew 26:26-29, 1 Corinthians 10:16)

Qualities of the Jerusalem Church They worshipped together Acts 2:42 Prayers – How we communicate with God. Acts 12:5, 1 Corinthians 14:15 “Fellowship” – when we worship, we have fellowship with God AND with one another!

Qualities of the Jerusalem Church They cared and shared Acts 2:44 Those who believed had “all things in common”. They were not only concerned about spiritual wellbeing, but their physical wellbeing too. Acts 2:44-45, 4:32-37, Acts 6, etc.

Qualities of the Jerusalem Church They cared and shared Acts 2:44 In time, because local resources were exhausted, others helped them following God’s pattern. Romans 15:25-26 God wants us to care about each other – Hebrews 13:16, James 2:14-16, James 1:27, etc.

Qualities of the Jerusalem Church They was dedication to the cause of Christ Acts 2:46 Continuing daily. Their service was not superficial or occasional. Even in persecutions they did not cease preaching and teaching Christ – Acts 5:41-42

Qualities of the Jerusalem Church They was dedication to the cause of Christ Acts 2:46 We see their dedication in their caring and sharing, worship, growth and zeal for His cause We are to be dedicated and zealous for His cause – Romans 12:11, Titus 2:14

Qualities of the Jerusalem Church They were united in cause Acts 2:46 “With one accord” – Acts 4:24, 32 – one heart, one soul, 5:12 God calls for us to be united – Ephesians 4:1-3. When we have differences, He expects us to work through them

Qualities of the Jerusalem Church There was joy and gladness Acts 2:46 Gladness and simplicity of heart Regardless of what they faced, there is a joyful attitude Acts 5:41 This does not mean their sorrows and afflictions were not real, but they chose to be joyful

Qualities of the Jerusalem Church There was joy and gladness Acts 2:46 We are called to be joyful Romans 12:15 – rejoice with each other Philippians 4:4, Rejoice always Romans 14:17, the kingdom of God… righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit Serving Him should not be a drudgery

Qualities of the Jerusalem Church They had favor with the people Acts 2:47 Says “all the people”. We know they had many enemies, but the crowds respected them. Acts 4:21, 33 – great grace was upon them all, Acts 5:13 – esteemed highly, 5:26 – council feared the people

Qualities of the Jerusalem Church They had favor with the people Acts 2:47 We are called to live in such a way, that (without compromise) we make the church as appealing as possible to others Romans 12:17-18, Hebrews 12:14, 1 Peter 3:16, 2:12 & 15

Qualities of the Jerusalem Church They grew Acts 2:41 - 3000 Acts 4:4 – 5000 men Acts 5:14 – believers increasingly added Acts 6:1, 7 – disciples multiplying Growth to the point, their enemies were concerned and persecuted even to the death AND even that didn’t stop them!

Qualities of the Jerusalem Church They grew & evangelized Not only locally, but beyond – Apostles sent Peter and John to Samaria – Acts 8:14 They sent Barnabas to Antioch – Acts 11:22 Our goal ought to be to grow! 1 Thessalonians 1:8. We must support the preaching of the word here and beyond

Qualities of the Jerusalem Church They stood faithful Even facing persecutions, they did not waiver. Apostles arrested, Stephen stoned, etc. They did NOT compromise the truth to make their lives easier! They withstood false teachers - Acts 15 May we always stand faithful – Ephesians 5:11

Qualities of the Jerusalem Church They were Christians From the very beginning, they obeyed the gospel and were added to His number (2:47) They believed (Acts 2:44, 4:4), Confessed Christ in their lives (cf. Romans 10:10) Repented and were baptized into His body - Acts 2:38, Galatians 3:27, Romans 6:3-4

Are we working to be the church we read of in the Bible? NT Church 2017-2018