Untitled Sermon (2)

The early Church characteristics and examples

ACTS 2:42-47

Devoting themselves to the Apostles teaching

Fellowship with one another - they were a family

Breaking of bread

Prayer

Praise to the Lord

Had all things in common

Gave to one another so needs were met - Sacrificial giving motivated by Love

Meeting in the Temple and in each others homes - daily

They had favor with all people - their lives were attracting positive attention.

The Lord was adding to their number day by day - people were coming to a place of believing because of what they heard AND what they saw.

ACTS 9:31

They walked in the fear of the Lord

They walked in the comfort of the Holy Spirit

1 CORINTHIANS 11:17-32

Came together for the betterment of others

Unity - no divisions or cliques

There were differences of opinions - but in this the genuine and approved were recognised

Correction and encouragement from Leadership

ACTS 19:8-9

Early believers met in the Synagogs until resistance came about, then moved to other locations such as the Lecture Hall of Tyrannus.

ACTS 6:1-6

Every position was considered ministry and taken serious - Even serving food

Position was filled with Spirit filled men, good character, wisdom, and a good reputation (people liked them and respected them)

They commissioned them by prayer and laying on of hands

1 TIMOTHY 3:1-12

There were overseers - one who served and was in leadership

There were Deacons - responsible to care for the needs of the believers

They both were held to a higher standard

1 TIMOTHY 5:17

There were Elders - one who was wise (possibly in age)

Responsible for Spiritual matters

They also preached and taught

They were held to a higher standard.

TITUS 1:5

Elders were appointed to every town or city

ACTS 14:23

Leadership was only appointed after prayer with fasting

Here Elders were appointed to every Church (may have been one group of believers in every city)

EPHESIANS 4:11-12

God appointed Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Pastors, and Teachers

The Saints were equipped for the work of service by these 5