Essential

Lives Were Changed, Acts 2:46-47

August 9, 2020 • Josh Lindstrom • Acts 2:46-47

It is far too easy to compartmentalize our faith, and in doing so see it become a segment of our lives. For those in the early church, they were committed to God consistently day by day, and as a result, God added to their numbers daily. We too should have confidence that, as we walk daily in faith, God will use us to see lives changed through Christ.

People Were Generous, Acts 2:44-45

August 2, 2020 • Josh Lindstrom • Acts 2:44-45

The transforming work of the gospel led the early church to radical generosity. Recognizing God’s ownership overall they had, when presented with a physical need in the congregation, they quickly responded to meet that need by divesting themselves of real property to meet the needs of each other.

The Ministry was Powerful, Acts 2:43 (John 15:1-17)

July 26, 2020 • Kurt Birky • Acts 2:43 (John 15:1-17)

As the church devoted themselves to God’s word, each other, the Lord’s supper and prayer, the Holy Spirit responded in powerful ways and awe came upon every soul. We too should trust that as we live the life that God has called us to, it will be recognized and lead people to look to Christ.

Time in Prayer, Acts 2:42e (Matthew 6:5-13)

July 19, 2020 • Kurt Birky • Acts 2:42e (Matthew 6:5-13)

The Lord’s Supper, Acts 2:42d (1 Corinthians 11:17-34)

July 12, 2020 • Kurt Birky • Acts 2:42d (1 Corinthians 11:17-34)

Committed to live the life Jesus called them to, the early church consistently remembered Jesus’ death on their behalf. Our gathering around the Lord’s table is to be both a time of solemn confession and reflection, and an opportunity to ensure we are in right relationships with fellow believers.

Time with God's People, Acts 2:42c (Hebrews 10:19-25)

July 5, 2020 • Josh Lindstrom • Acts 2:42c (Hebrews 10:19-25)

Nowhere in Scripture are we called to live in isolation. To the contrary, we are called to stir up one another to love and good works (Hebrews 10:24). Fellowship with other believers is not simply an add-on optional component of the Christian life, but very much necessary for our ongoing growth and faith in Christ.

The Study of God's Word, Acts 2:42b (2 Timothy 3:14-17)

June 28, 2020 • Josh Lindstrom • Acts 2:42b (2 Timothy 3:14-17)

The first followers of Christ were devoted to the apostles’ teaching. They desired to know what Jesus had taught and how it connected to God’s larger story in Scripture. We are fortunate to have all of God’s word recorded for us; 66 books, each profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that we may be equipped for every good work.

The Local Church, Acts 2:42-47

June 21, 2020 • Josh Lindstrom • Acts 2:42-47

Before churches ever gathered in stand-alone buildings, the church in Acts 2 was a group of people called out and devoted to biblical community with a clear commitment to God’s word, evangelism and care. While much has changed since then, the local church remains the centerpiece of God’s plan to reach and disciple this world.