Friday, May 02, 2008
MARKS OF THE CHURCH
CHALLENGE OF THE
Acts 2:40-47
INTRO: The church in Acts, freshly empowered by the Holy Spirit, is very challenging to us. Let's look at the character of this church described in this passage.
A SAVED CHURCH
"they were continually devoting themselves" (vs. 42a)
"God was adding
those being saved." (vs. 47c)
A
"to the apostles' teaching" (42b)
They were studying the Scriptures.
A
"and to fellowship" (42c)
---coming together in worship, etc.
---sharing needs (44-46)
A
"to the breaking of bread" (42d)
---Lord's Supper, Christ centered.
---Communion, common faith.
A PRAYING CHURCH
"to prayer" (42e)
They started in prayer in chapter 1.
In Chapter 4 they prayed for boldness.
In chapter 12 they prayed for Peter's release.
Prayer is both asking from and sharing with God.
A JOYFUL CHURCH
"glad and sincere hearts, praising God" (46-47)
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What is the challenge? How do we compare with these characteristics? Are there things we need to change?
----Outline adapted from John MacArthur, Jr.
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Pastor Fred D. Kerr
Greenville Southern Baptist Church
Preached April 27, 2008
dialog welcomed
