Does character matter in the world today? What evidence do you see that character does or does not matter? Today we will look at the early church’s character and those character traits that God desires churches to have today.
1. Read Acts 2:41-42 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. 42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. 43 And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. 44 And all that believed were together, and had all things common; 45 And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. 46 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, 47 Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
God’s power and the people’s prayers are linked together throughout the book of Acts.
Read Acts 6:1-6. What were the reasons for enlisting deacons?
Apparently the apostles were both praying and leading the church in prayer. Do your leaders spend more time in ministry or in preaching and in prayer?
How would you describe your church’s prayer life? How would you describe the way God is working in your church right now?
2. Read Acts 9:31 Then had the churches rest throughout all Judaea and Galilee and Samaria, and were edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multiplied.
What were the characteristics of the early church? What characteristics does your church have? Thank God for all the gifts He has given your church. Pray for His help in overcoming any undesirable characteristics.
3. Read Acts 11:26 And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.
This verse links intensive study with those who are called Christians. What are the strong points of your church’s Bible and doctrine teaching ministry? How could it improve? How can your church get more people involved in studying God’s Word and learning sound doctrine?
4. Read Acts 2:46-47. Worship wasn’t a one-hour, once-a-week event for people in the early church. It was a part of who they were, of what they did each day. How important is worship in your life? in the life of your church? What can your church do to teach people the importance of worship? What can you do to ensure that people connect with God when they come to your worship services?
5. Read Acts 4:1-22. What were the circumstances for Peter’s preaching?
In the early church the spread of the Gospel was accompanied by opposition, imprisonment, persecution, and even death. Have you ever suffered because you told others about Jesus? What keeps more people from telling others the good news? Whom will you tell this week?
