Sunday Service on March 30, 2025

Outline


Introduction to Acts 2:37-47

  • The pastor begins by highlighting Acts 2:37-47 as a pivotal passage that will change how people view the church, especially for leaders.

  • Emphasis is placed on these verses in understanding the early church model.
  • A contrast is drawn between this biblical model and the commercialized approach of many modern American churches.
  • Criticism is directed at the focus on entertainment and superficial elements rather than the power of the Holy Spirit.


Repentance and Baptism in the Early Church

  • Discussion centers around the events following Peter's sermon on the day of Pentecost.

  • The people were 'cut to the heart' by Peter's words, leading to mass repentance and baptism.
  • Emphasis is placed on the power of the Holy Spirit in convicting people of their sins, rather than relying on human persuasion or entertainment.
  • There is a critique of modern church practices that make baptism too casual or easy.
  • It is insisted that true baptism should follow genuine repentance and a commitment to God.


Devotion and Fellowship in the Early Church

  • Early believers are described as being devoted to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer.

  • This devotion was characterized by loyalty, love, care, and commitment to God and each other.
  • It is important to put these teachings into practice daily, rather than merely hearing them.
  • The Greek word 'Koinonia' is introduced to describe the power of unity and sharing among believers.
  • There is a stress on looking out for one another, correcting each other in love, and maintaining an attitude of gratitude.


The Fear of the Lord and Miraculous Signs

  • Acts 2:43 highlights how a sense of awe and fear of the Lord came upon everyone.

  • This reverence for God led to the apostles performing many miracles, signs, and wonders.
  • A contrast is made with modern church experiences where the presence of God may not be felt as strongly.
  • This difference is attributed to a lack of reverence and fear of the Lord.


Sharing Possessions and Meeting Needs

  • Discussion focuses on the early church's practice of having everything in common.

  • Believers sold their possessions to meet the needs of others.
  • There is an emphasis on their selfless attitude and focus on serving one another.
  • The congregation is challenged to adopt a similar mindset, being attentive to the needs of others and ready to help.
  • A warning is given against being critical or gossiping.


Warnings Against Gossip and Negative Speech

  • A personal anecdote is shared about a couple who were constantly sick, relating it to the story of Miriam in Numbers 12.

  • There is a warning against speaking negatively about church leaders or other believers.
  • Such behavior can lead to spiritual and physical consequences.
  • The importance of humility and seeking mercy for others is emphasized.


The Importance of Humility

  • Moses is used as an example to stress the importance of humility in leadership and among believers.

  • There is a warning against boasting about one's own good deeds or spiritual accomplishments.
  • Encouragement is given to focus on glorifying God and serving others without seeking attention.


Three Keys to Achieving Unity: The Triple A's

  • The conclusion presents three key points for achieving unity in the church: accepting the gospel message wholeheartedly, being in agreement with other believers, and aligning oneself with the Holy Spirit and the church's direction.

  • These elements are crucial for effective prayer, answered prayers, and a thriving church community.
  • The congregation is encouraged to put these principles into practice, fostering unity, love, and genuine fellowship within the church.

 

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

NOTES: Wednesday Bible Session about First Fruits

Image
  Difference Between Tithes, Offerings, and First Fruits I. Tithes Tithes are 10% of income given to God. Symbol of obedience, faith, and trust. Scripture : Malachi 3:10 – “Bring all the tithes into the storehouse... and see if I will not open for you the windows of heaven.” II. Offerings Freewill gifts given beyond the tithe. Often used to help others or support the church. Scripture : 2 Corinthians 9:7 – “Each one should give as he has decided... not reluctantly... for God loves a cheerful giver.” III. First Fruits Annual gift given from the first and best. Represents faith, gratitude, and the beginning of blessings. Scripture : Proverbs 3:9–10 – “Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits... then your barns will be filled to overflowing.” [1] What Are First Fruits A. Symbolic Meaning Marks the beginning of a new season spiritually. Represents gratitude and trust in future blessings. B. Biblical Origins Based on the sp...
Read more

From Darkness to Light: Breaking the Wall Between You and God

Image
  1. Sin Creates Distance from God Sin, especially repeated sin without sorrow, builds a wall between a person and God. This wall makes a person feel far from God's presence. The spirit suffers because it was made to be close to God. 2. Sin Damages the Body, Mind, and Soul Drugs cause mental confusion, anxiety, and addiction; they harm the body and make the soul feel empty. Alcohol affects the mind and mood, hurts the body, and brings guilt to the soul. Gluttony (eating too much) causes health problems and makes people focus on pleasure, not God. Lust and sexual sin bring confusion, shame, and pain to both the body and soul. 3. The Deep Impact of Sexual Sin Sexual sin is very harmful—it hurts the body and spirit. It brings shame, guilt, and emotional pain. It separates a person from God’s love and peace. 4. Repeated Sin Hardens the Heart Sin makes the heart spiritually weak, dry, and far from God. Over time, sin clouds the mind and blocks G...
Read more

Reviving the True Church: Discipleship, Accountability, and the Call to Spiritual Awakening

Sunday, April 27, 2025 - Pastor Jose @ Reign Fire Church Reviving the True Church: Discipleship, Accountability, and the Call to Spiritual Awakening Teachings from the Early Church The Pastor opened the Bible to Matthew chapter 28, verses 16-20, (Matt 28:16-2) focusing on the teachings of Jesus to His disciples. The Pastor emphasized the importance of order, discipline, accountability, stewardship, and character in the church. The Pastor highlighted the challenge of educating the people of God in the things of the Lord. The Pastor discussed the issue of denominations within Christianity and clarified that Jesus did not come to institute a denomination or religion. The Pastor shared personal experiences to illustrate points, including attending a women's conference and dealing with inconsistent Christians. The Role of Disciples The Pastor explained that Jesus commanded His disciples to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy...
Read more