We’ve been looking to the first-century church for some "Lessons For the 21^st Century Church." The book of Acts gives us some great lessons from the 1st Century Church...

1. God responds very powerfully when his people get together to pray.

2. When we pray, we need to pray with faith. Faith in our God, not in our prayer.

Faith that His love, wisdom and power are so perfect that God always wants, knows and gives exactly what we need. Which means, we can pray "Thy will be done," and mean it.

3. The purpose of the Church is the same as Jesus’ purpose: Give God Glory

When Jesus ascended to heaven he left us to continue giving God glory by being "Jesus" to the people around us.

4. God has given the Church everything it needs to fulfill that purpose: His Holy Spirit

The Spirit has the power to do "immeasurably more than we can ask or imagine" and that power is "at work within us" who believe in Jesus as Lord and Savior.

5. God’s 3-in-1 (Trinity) characteristic sets an example for the Church: Unity in Diversity.

The Father, Son and Spirit have diverse roles yet they are perfectly united in their focus on giving us everything we need for life. Each of us has diverse roles in the church, yet we are united when our focus is on God. (and untied when our focus is on ourselves).

6. Whatever God gives - make us of it!

God has given us everything we have. His Word, the ability to talk with him in prayer, the promised refreshment that comes from forgiveness, the joy of salvation, his love, your talents and experiences. Jesus compared "putting to use the things he’s given" to building your house on a solid rock. He also compared "not using what he’s given" to building your house on sand that washes away when the storms of life come.

7. God can’t be deceived. So don’t try.

God knows everything. We may be able to deceive parents or teachers or bosses or friends - for a little while. But God knows everything you do and think - and always brings consequences for trying to deceive.

8. Obey God rather than men - and expect that you will not be popular when you do.

God will give you what you need to get through the "verbal beatings" you may take for obeying him.

9. Forgive.

Not "forgive if... they ask to be forgiven: or "forgive when... you feel like it" But "forgive." Period. Just as Stephen did to the people who killed him (Acts 7). Forgiving is absolutely necessary for your physical and emotional and spiritual health. Yet, forgiveness does not come naturally for us (especially when the hurts are deep). But forgiveness does come naturally for God - so, ask him for the power to forgive.

Back to FAQ page
 

This site is designed and maintained by Kandi Technologies. 
Any questions or problems should be reported to the webmaster@livingwordlutheran.net.

The entire site and all contents: ©2005 - 2007 Living Word Lutheran Church, All Rights Reserved