Characteristics of the early Church

Acts 2:37–47
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Peter’s words pierced their hearts, and they questioned what they should do (v. 37). Notice how the Holy Spirit took Peter’s message and caused the listeners to be angry about their sin. He told them they must repent, turn to God, and be baptized (v. 38). Repenting means to change our mind, which results in a change of life. God’s promise of salvation is for everyone called by Him, no matter where they are from (v. 39). Peter told the crowd many other things, and about three thousand believed (vv. 40-41). 

The characteristics of the early church are listed (vv. 42-47):

1.     A Learning Church – it persisted in listening to the apostles as they taught (v. 42). 

2.     A Fellowshipping Church – it had the great quality of togetherness (v. 42).

3.     A Praying Church – these early Christians knew that they could not meet life in their own strength. And by God’s grace, they did not need to (v. 42). 

4.    A Reverent Church – they were in awe of everything God was doing (v. 43).

5.     A Doing Church – signs and wonders were being done through the apostles (v. 43).

6.    A Sharing Church – they had a feeling of responsibility for each other (vv. 44-45). 

7.     A Worshiping Church – they never forgot to visit God’s house (v. 46). 

8.       A Happy Church – a gloomy Christian is a contradiction (v. 46). 

9.     An Enjoyable Church – people couldn’t help but like these people (v. 47).

10.  An Evangelistic Church – many were saved and added daily (v. 47). 

Application

The early church attracted people because of the way the members loved each other, and served each other, and served the Lord. Lord, help me to be that kind of person.