The Apostolic Church (Acts 2:37-47)

The Church which the Holy Spirit built and came into being on the Day of Pentecost with about 120 believers, saved through the ministry of the Lord Jesus.

How should a Church be and function? 

Here we have our example to follow. This Church was built up following the preaching of Peter when a few thousand souls accepted Christ and were added to the Church.

We read that they gladly received the Word, obeyed it and were baptized. What next ?

We note 4 points concerning the function of this Church:

1. The Apostles teaching
2. Fellowship
3. Breaking of bread
4. Prayer

They remained steadfastly in these activities (i.e. obediently) and any other activity was considered of secondary importance. One can say, then, that these four activities determined the spirituality of the Church of God. This is the kind of Church God desires.

What was the visible impact of such a church upon the community?

The fear of God came upon every soul, and signs and wonders were done by the Apostles. This was a clear sign that God was working in His Church - Mark 16:17-18.

What were the results upon the Church members themselves?

A. 

All who believed were in a spirit of unity, a vital condition for God to work. On the Day of Pentecost we read the believers were of one accord, then the Holy Spirit came upon them.

No Church can progress where there is disunity and discord.

B.

They all had their possessions common, a hard thing to achieve without total surrender to God's will. They were glad to share their possessions and provide for those who had need. 

This kind of action is a sign of the fact that life on this earth is temporary. Our home is not here, we are pilgrims and sojourners. 

C.

They continued in the life of the Church with joy and gladness of heart, in worship privately and corporately, not desiring more than what was necessary for their daily needs.

D.

The witness in the community, due to this way of life, was powerful and real. It was not religion but powerful living.

E.

God was pleased with His people and added souls to His Church.

It is God who builds His Church, it is His work.