The Immersed Church

[Announce text] Please look with me in Scripture at Acts 2:1-41.

[Scripture introduction] Continuing in Luke’s second volume is the book of Acts, where the physician writes about the account of Jesus ascending into heaven and sending his disciples out into the world. It is in his historical book where we discover our family lineage - the immersed church and when the Spirit comes upon the believers.

[Reannounce and read text] Read with me these words the coming of the Spirit and the formation of the church in Acts 2:1-41. [The preacher reads the Scripture passage out loud.]

[Prayer for illumination] Pray with me as we ask God to direct our hearts and minds into his sacred word. [The minister offers a brief prayer asking the Holy Spirit to bless the understanding of the preacher and hearers as God’s Word is proclaimed.]

[Introduction] If you pass my house, you’ll notice my family’s recently built raised flower bed. Right now there isn’t any dirt, but afterward it will be filled and then I begin to plant my perennials roots. If I follow the instructions correctly, hopefully everyone will see my new plants puncturing though the surface of the ground and become the beautiful array of flowers.

In the same way, the church is a seed or root of God. It originates from the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit and when it is planted in the fertile soil of faith it soon blossoms into a magnificent flower that reflects the glory of God. There is nothing like it in the world.

However, the unfortunate news is that Christianity is slowing decaying in the West.

According to a 2020 survey conducted by the Pew Research Center, the average weekly attendance at religious services in the United States is around 49%. This means that, on average, about half of all Americans report attending religious services at least once a week or a few times a month.

The world has reached the conclusion that gathering and worshipping together is useless. This may be a result that we have failed to live up to purpose and beauty. However, do not despair. We can grow it again with God’s help. In the right conditions the church can thrive, we have to understand God’s purpose for the church.

What does the church need to do to grow?

Conversions (Acts 2:37)‌

Immersions (Acts 2:38)‌

Community (Acts 2:41)

The church is an immersed community where the Holy Spirit brings us together as one.

[Conclusion] We have time to witness for Christ, to make disciples and live in community. Let’s be the beautiful Church that grows up and pleases the Lord.

[Prayer for Transformation] Pray with me as we ask the Lord to transform us. [The minister prays for the congregation to seek the Spirit and become the sent people of God.]