So What Now?

Intro

My friends Jesus loves the Church. We should too.

That being said, what set the early church apart from modern church?

It was Power. Holy Spirit anointed, Sanctified living power.

What were they doing that was so different?

This is important to look at because there are hundreds of conferences that will teach techniques, styles. this process, that formula, to to see Gods power fall and to be effective as a church. The church can facilitate small groups, prayer meetings, and other workshops. But if you and I as an individual aren’t hungry. then nothing else matters. If we are not committed to the cause of Christ. they then nothing else matters.

If you or myself are satisfied because we have been there done that, heard it all. seen every ministry under the Sun. Then we cannot:

Expect to see God move

Be used of God.

effect other people for good.

I learned this a long time ago.

If I am not getting filled in a ministry or at a church.

Is the Word being preached?

Is there a healthy prayer meeting?

If those to things are true, guess what I am probably the problem.

I have walked away from the fire.

The early church didn’t have this issue. So let’s look at what they were doing.

Acts 2:42–47 ESV

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

So what is the early church doing here that is so significant?

Devoted to the Understanding the Word.

Acts 2:42 ESV

And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.

They set out to understand the Word of God. They wanted to understand the depths of Gods wonders.

They hungered after the mind of God. The heart of god.

They wanted to understand His grand wisdom. Not to flaunt it, but so that they might be made Holy.

Are you devoted to understand Gods Word?

Not just reading it, but understanding it.

Are you Devoted to the Word of God? Or is it merely collecting dust in your heart and on your nightstand?

If we want Holy Spirit Power my friends we must get back to Holy Spirit living.

Devotion to One Another

John 13:35 ESV

By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

They early church walked a life devoted to one another. It was devoted to one another bot not exclusive to another. If an outsider was hungry for Christ they were welcomed in.

So lets ask?

Are you devoted to One another? AM I?

It’s easy to say, but hard to do.

A Christian is devoted to people.

Not only Christians either. We must be pro human. It must go beyond mere talk.

“Love they Neighbor, As thyself.

Who have you brought into your life?

They Had

Devotion to the Breaking of Bread and Prayer

It was devotion to the breaking of bread and prayer

Devoted to remembering the Lords Sacrifice Together.

Our Christian life must go beyond Sunday! it must go beyond your seat. this pulpit. these walls.

Who have you invited in? Some of us get this, but not all of us.

WE must learn to bring people in to our tables.

Are you committed to prayer?

Closing