ACTS 2:42-48 – And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need. So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.”
THEME OF THE DAY. WHAT MAKES A GOOD CHURCH? If I were asked to provide what is the solution to all the evils, fears, and hopelessness gripping people in our world and given only one answer, here is what it would be – the church of Jesus Christ being the church of Jesus Christ. I believe the only hope for moral transformation, culture rightness, and the salvaging of families, marriages, and lives wrecked by sin is our local churches being revived, reminded, and recommitted to why Jesus formed and left her in the world – to live out and proclaim His truth. And God’s primary means of doing this is not by individual Christians but through visible, local churches showing the unifying power and influence as the family of God alive in their communities. No discerning Christian would deny this Biblical truth. From the Day of Pentecost through church history to this very day, the church is God’s plan to reach the world. That is why it is important, even necessary, for every Christian to be actively committed to a local church for growth, mutual encouragement, and to participate in God’s plan to reach the world. Isolated Christians are vulnerable Christians; vulnerable to the devil and self-deception with both leading to inevitable spiritual consequences.
So, what would a good church fulfilling God’s plan look like? In today’s scripture, there are four necessary components for a church to know God’s favor and be effective on God’s mission.
First, commitment to sound doctrine – “continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine.” A church should know what they believe, publish what they believe, preach and teach what they believe, be thoroughly Biblical and clear. Articles of faith, covenants, confessions, and other things are excellent means to put forth a doctrinal statement about what a church believes. And when looking for a church, this is the most important, not fellowship, not opportunities for service, not peer groups, or social activities. Doctrine is first and foremost.
Next, a good church practices Biblical fellowship – “continued steadfastly in fellowship.” This includes but does not mean social events. True Biblical fellowship focuses on sharing Christ, growing in Christ, and rejoicing in Christ with other believers. Good churches strive for Christ-centered awareness in all their fellowship activities. Without Him, fellowship is simply a social event attended by Christians, but not Biblical fellowship.
A third mark in a church which will make a difference in her community is practicing of the Lord’s table – “continued steadfastly in the breaking of bread.” Frequently the Lord’s table causes us to remember the Gospel and keep close accounts with the Lord. Observing the Lord’s table should be often. It is a special “family meal” drawing us near the heart of Jesus.
The fourth mark in a good church is prayer – “continued steadfastly in prayer.” This is so vital, and unless our churches are praying churches, I don’t believe we should expect much from the Lord by way of knowing Him and influencing our world for Him. Charles Spurgeon said, “The condition of the church may be very accurately gauged by its prayer meetings.” We should heed his words as this pastor and his church experienced much of God’s favor in revival and influence.
Yes, the only hope in our world is the church. May God help us make our local churches all He wants them to be so that we may leave our mark for Him in our generation.
PRAYER: “Father, help me to not only be in a good church but be an active part in my good church.”
QUOTE: “The church is God’s primary means of growing His kids and reaching the lost when it is what He requires.”
In the Affection of Christ Jesus,
Pastor Jim