Four Questions from Acts 2

It was exactly 20 years ago that I was captivated by the poignant words of Acts 2:42-47.  In Acts 2 we get a glimpse of what was going on with the very early church. While there are many differences between our CBOQ churches today and what was happening then, the passage offers four ideas that can help us to evaluate whether our church is moving in right directions or whether we are experiencing mission drift.

Acts 2:42-47 The Fellowship of the Believers

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.  Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles.  All the believers were together and had everything in common.  They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.  Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.

QUESTION #1 – GATHERING TOGETHER

Do our gatherings reflect this description of the early church?

QUESTION #2 – WORSHIPPING TOGETHER

Do we love to worship the living God together?

QUESTION #3 – LEARNING TOGETHER

Do we devote ourselves to learning together?

QUESTION #4 – MISSION TOGETHER

Is the Lord entrusting new people to us?

“Where the church today finds itself stagnant, unattractive, humdrum and shrinking – and sadly, there are many churches, in the Western world at least, of which that has to be admitted – it’s time to read Acts 2:42-47 again, get down on our knees, and ask what isn’t happening that should be happening. The Gospel hasn’t changed. God’s power hasn’t diminished. People still need rescuing. What are we doing about it?”

–N. T. Wright, Acts for Everyone

For resources on how to bring positive change to your church see:

2 thoughts on “Four Questions from Acts 2”

  1. We gather, we worship, we learn, we look beyond our borders. Something is still missing. Could it be the degree to which our interactions really impact on others? Is there evidence of faith that challenges us towards lifestyle changes? Does our passion for Christ create a hunger that is only satisfied by our gathering in His Name? Thanks for this blog…stimulating and encouraging.

  2. Thanks Michael. You offer some great questions.
    Often when I read that passage I am challenged that there is no simple formula or technique that will solve all of the challenges facing the church today. AND I am encouraged when I hear stories of our CBOQ churches where God is up to something special. I know of a church that is hoping to do seven baptisms this Easter Sunday. Alhough church is helping people discover their gifts and utilize them well. Multiple churches are doing some really engaging youth ministry.

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