Real Church

In Act 2:42-47 we see the new Christians' response to the experience they had with God earlier in the chapter. This passage gives us a good understanding of what the early church looked like. It also gives us an idea of what God sees as important in a healthy, well balanced, God glorifying church.

Acts 2:42-47
⁴² And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. ⁴³ And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. ⁴⁴ And all who believed were together and had all things in common. ⁴⁵ And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. ⁴⁶ And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts,⁴⁷ praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.

The following are seven signs gleaned from Acts 2:42-47 of a God-filled, vibrant, growing church.

I. They hunger for God's Word (v42)

II. They enjoy communion (v42)

     a. With each other 

     b. With God 

III. They pray together (v42)

IV. They are awed by God (v43)

V. They take care of one another (v44-45)

VI. They meet regularly (v46)

VII. They overflow with thanksgiving and praise (v46-47) 

The Result: 

God blesses and uses them! (v47)

Let’s not get lost in all the bells and whistles when it comes to doing church. For the most part there is nothing wrong those practicalities, but what people really hunger for and what gives God the most glory is his people functioning the way they were intended; in love and in his Spirit.