Jerusalem- A Healthy Congregation Series

Series: Biblical Cities- Jerusalem [#43]

JERUSALEM- A HEALTHY CONGREGATION

Matthew 23:37

Introduction:

We are continuing in our Series about the most mentioned City in the Bible- Jerusalem.

Matthew 23:37

What is the purpose of a local Congregation? What does a healthy Congregation look like? The Early Church in Jerusalem gives us an example of what a healthy Congregation looks like.

Acts 2:42-47

A healthy Congregation is devoted…

1. To the teaching of the Word.

Regardless of the situation or circumstances that you are in, you need to know the Word of God. Just knowing a few Scriptures is not enough when you are in a spiritual battle. The Word of God is the Sword of the Spirit. You need to learn the Word of God; and be able to apply it. (Before you start telling yourself that you do not know enough about the Bible to even try; remember that the Holy Spirit will remind you of God’s Word.)

When I was in college, I had a terrible time with tests. I would study and study and study to get a B or C. I was always the last person to finish the test. At West Texas State University, I had a Psychology Professor that was a strong Christian man. After the 2nd test in his class, he asked me to stay after everyone had left. I was already in my 4th year of college. (It did take me 6 years to get my Bachelor’s Degree.) This Professor told me that he wanted me to completely change how I took tests. The change was this- Before I began the test, he told me to pray for 4 or 5 minutes. He told me to ask God to calm my nerves and to remind me of everything I had studied. He told me not to ask God for answers to things that I had not studied. I took his advice; and in my last 2 years of college, I made A’s and B’s. I would ask you to take the same advice. Study God’s Word and when you need help, ask God to use His Word that is hidden in your heart to give you victory.

A healthy Congregation is devoted…

2. To fellowship.

More now than ever, I understand what true fellowship with other believers is. That has been the hardest part of not having services in the building- The lack of fellowship. A Church that doesn’t spend time together is a Church that is not going to grow. People are searching for friends and people that can be there for them. Fellowship is not just socializing together.

They spent time together fellowshipping through…

* Studying.

* Meals.

* Ministering.

* Meeting together at Church.

* Worshipping.

A healthy Congregation is devoted…

3. To the breaking of bread.

Not everything we do as a Church needs to be formal. Spending time having meals together fulfills a physical need and at the same time grows us closer together.

A healthy Congregation is devoted…

4. To prayer.

This is where most Churches struggle. Prayer is what draws us closer to God as one. If we are praying for one another, for the souls of lost people, for God to use us; there is nothing that can stop us.

Conclusion:

Notice the results of a healthy Congregation.

* Everyone is filled with awe at what God is doing.

* Many wonders and miracles happen.

* Growth through daily salvations.