Introduction:
The early church didn’t have the technology and planning techniques the modern day church have. But they were more effective than us. Let us find out from the book of Acts, the secrets of their powerful impact.
1. Hallmarks of the early church:
a. Founded on the day of Pentecost by Peter's powerful sermon, preached in the power of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2)
b. They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread and prayer (2:42)
c. It was a caring and sharing church. Imagine more than 3000 people (many came from different countries), becoming members of the church on day one. The apostles and local Christians welcomed the newcomers and they shared their resources (2:44-45, 4:32-35)
d. The church didn't have silver and gold but the name of Jesus was their greatest possession that resulted in miracles (2:43, 3:1-10).
e. It was a Spirit-filled church. They depended on the power of the Spirit for everything (13:52). Many miracles were performed by the apostles by the power of the Holy Spirit.
f. It was a growing church (2:47, 5:14, 6:7, 16:5)
g. They turned adversities (persecution) in to opportunities (evangelism). They suffered persecution gladly (4:41)
Acts 8:4-5
h. It was a praying church (Acts 1:14, 4:23-31). Important decisions were taken after fasting and prayer (13:2-3)
i. It was bold church. They didn't bother to obey authorities for doing God's work (5:40-42, 6:8-7:60- Stephen's martyrdom)
Apostles boldly proclaimed gospel to the kings and authorities
j. It was an open church for the gentiles (10:44-48)
2. It was not a "Perfect" Church:
Like any other church, early church was not a perfect church. Church is founded by perfect God but is made of imperfect people.
a. Hypocrisy of Ananias and Sapphira was dealt sternly by God and apostle Peter (5:1-11)
b. Conflicts in the church (Acts 6:1-7) were present but prayerfully dealt with.
c. Racial tension between Jewish Christians and Gentile Christians was dealt with wisdom and discernment from the Holy Spirit (15:1-35)
d. Division and disagreement among leaders (15:36-40) led to the follow up of the churches in two different areas. Sometimes God uses this method to expand the work of the church.
e. Problems in Corinthian church:
Factions/ divisions (I Cor. 1:10)
Jealousy and quarrels (I Cor. 3:3)
Immorality (I Cor.5:1-2)
Court cases against each other (I Cor. 6:1-8)
Eating food offered to idols (I Cor. 8:1-9)
Disorder in Holy Communion (I Cor. 11)
False teaching on the resurrection of Christ (I Cor. 15:16)
f. Problem of Galatian church:
Turning to false gospel (Gal 1:6)
Beginning with Spirit and trying to finish by flesh- Faith + Works for salvation (Gal 3:3)
Observing special days and months (Gal 4:10-11)
g. Problem of Philippian Church:
Personality clash between two lady leaders-Euodia and Syntyche (Phil 4:2)
h. Problem of Colossian Church:
Hollow and deceptive philosophy (Col. 2:8)
Heresy/ False teaching about festivals and worship of angels (Col. 2:16-18)
3. Early Church followed God's methods for obedience to the Great Commission:
a. Dependence on the Holy Spirit for power and miracles
b. Christ centered focus on the prayer and Bible
c. Preaching of Gospel and sharing of God's love
d. Dealing sternly with sin
Conclusion:
Let us examine our congregation in light of the Word. What are we focussing on? Are we Christ-centered or self-centered? Are we growing in Christ and His Word? Are we serious about preaching the Gospel? Are we focussing on negative and small things at the expense of God's mission? Are we praying enough? Are we Spirit-Filled believers? Are we showing love and kindness to each other and outsiders?
