Growing Together: The Church's Mission in Community
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, Living Faith Bible Church. Today, we continue our sermon series, "We Are the Church," focusing on our mission, encapsulated in the phrase "come and grow." The church is not merely a building but a people of God, and our mission is to develop mature believers who reflect the image of Christ. This mission is rooted in Jesus' command to make disciples of all nations. We draw inspiration from the early church as described in Acts 2:42-47, which provides a model for our mission today.
The early church devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. These practices led to spiritual growth and a strong sense of community. They gathered for public learning of the Scriptures, which included both the Old and New Testaments. This public learning is essential for our spiritual nourishment, akin to milk and meat for our souls.
Public worship is another crucial element. The early church gathered for fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer, emphasizing the importance of being physically present with one another. This analog, or in-real-life, experience is irreplaceable, even in our digital age.
Genuine care for one another was also a hallmark of the early church. They shared their possessions and met each other's needs, demonstrating a deep sense of community and mutual support. This caring extended beyond the church walls, impacting the broader community and leading to daily additions to their numbers.
As we reflect on these practices, we must ask ourselves if we are committed to the public learning of Scripture, public worship, and genuine care for one another. These elements are vital for our spiritual growth and for fulfilling our mission as a church. Let us strive to be the church, not just attend it, by engaging in these practices and relationships that stimulate growth.
### Key Takeaways
1. Public Learning of Scripture: The early church devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, which included both the Old and New Testaments. This public learning is essential for our spiritual nourishment, akin to milk and meat for our souls. We must commit to studying the Scriptures together, not just individually, to grow in our relationship with Christ. [08:33]
2. Public Worship: Gathering for public worship is irreplaceable, even in our digital age. The early church gathered for fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer, emphasizing the importance of being physically present with one another. This analog experience fosters deeper relationships and a stronger sense of community. [12:33]
3. Genuine Care for Believers: The early church shared their possessions and met each other's needs, demonstrating a deep sense of community and mutual support. This caring extended beyond the church walls, impacting the broader community and leading to daily additions to their numbers. We must strive to care for one another genuinely and sacrificially. [23:06]
4. Resisting Cultural Trends: Our culture often resists and distorts the teaching of God's Word. We must remain committed to the public learning of Scripture and resist the temptation to seek only what is new and novel. The timeless truths of the Bible are essential for our spiritual growth and must not be abandoned. [15:12]
5. Commitment to Growth: We must ask ourselves if we are committed to the practices and relationships necessary for our spiritual growth. Whether it be public learning, public worship, or genuine caring, we need to evaluate and recommit to these elements to truly be the church. This commitment will help us grow individually and collectively as a community of believers. [28:52]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[02:14] - Introduction to the Mission
[03:12] - Examples of Missions in Society
[04:09] - The Church's Unique Mission
[05:01] - Reflecting on Acts Chapter 2
[06:46] - Devotion to Apostles' Teaching
[08:33] - Public Learning of Scripture
[10:20] - Importance of Public Learning
[11:06] - Analog vs. Digital Church
[12:33] - Public Worship and Fellowship
[15:12] - Resisting Cultural Trends
[16:26] - Elements of Public Worship
[19:06] - Corporate Prayer
[20:16] - Decline in Church Attendance
[21:57] - Encouragement from Hebrews
[23:06] - Genuine Care for Believers
[24:44] - Meeting Together in the Temple Courts
[25:52] - Social and Practical Care
[27:11] - Analog Church in a Digital Age
[28:20] - Recap of the Series
[29:48] - Call to Commitment
[31:24] - Prayer and Conclusion
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Acts 2:42-47: "They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved."
#### Observation Questions
1. What four practices did the early church devote themselves to according to Acts 2:42? ([06:46])
2. How did the early church demonstrate genuine care for one another as described in Acts 2:44-45? ([23:06])
3. What was the result of the early church's commitment to these practices and relationships, as mentioned in Acts 2:47? ([26:23])
4. How does the sermon describe the importance of public worship in the early church? ([12:33])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is the public learning of Scripture compared to milk and meat for our souls? How does this analogy help us understand its importance? ([13:55])
2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that public worship is irreplaceable, even in our digital age? ([12:33])
3. How does the early church's practice of sharing possessions and meeting each other's needs challenge our modern understanding of community and generosity? ([23:06])
4. What does it mean to resist cultural trends that distort the teaching of God's Word, and how can we apply this in our daily lives? ([15:12])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own commitment to the public learning of Scripture. Do you regularly participate in group Bible studies or church services? If not, what steps can you take to become more involved? ([08:33])
2. How can you prioritize public worship in your life, especially if you have been relying on digital services? What changes might you need to make to attend in-person gatherings more consistently? ([12:33])
3. Think of a time when you experienced genuine care from fellow believers. How did it impact your faith? How can you extend that same care to others in your church community? ([23:06])
4. Are there cultural trends or personal habits that have been distracting you from the teachings of the Bible? What practical steps can you take to refocus on God's Word? ([15:12])
5. Evaluate your current relationships within the church. Are there specific individuals or groups you feel called to support or connect with more deeply? How can you act on this calling in the coming weeks? ([28:52])
6. How can you contribute to the sense of community and mutual support in your church? Consider specific actions like sharing resources, volunteering, or simply being present for others. ([23:06])
7. Reflect on the sermon’s call to be the church, not just attend it. What does this mean for you personally, and how can you live out this mission in your daily life? ([30:19])
Devotional
Day 1: The Necessity of Public Learning of Scripture
The early church devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, which included both the Old and New Testaments. This public learning is essential for our spiritual nourishment, akin to milk and meat for our souls. We must commit to studying the Scriptures together, not just individually, to grow in our relationship with Christ. Public learning of Scripture helps us to understand the broader context of God's Word and allows us to benefit from the collective wisdom and insights of our community.
In today's world, it is easy to become isolated in our spiritual journey, relying solely on personal study and digital resources. However, the early church's example shows us the importance of gathering together to learn from one another and to be taught by those who have been gifted with the ability to teach. This communal approach to learning helps to keep us grounded in the truth and prevents us from being swayed by false teachings or cultural trends. [08:33]
Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV): "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."
Reflection: How can you prioritize attending a Bible study or small group this week to engage in public learning of Scripture?
Day 2: The Irreplaceable Value of Public Worship
Gathering for public worship is irreplaceable, even in our digital age. The early church gathered for fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer, emphasizing the importance of being physically present with one another. This analog experience fosters deeper relationships and a stronger sense of community. In-person worship allows us to experience the presence of God in a unique way and to participate in the sacraments, such as communion, which are vital to our spiritual growth.
While online services and digital resources can be beneficial, they cannot fully replicate the experience of being physically present with other believers. The early church's commitment to gathering together serves as a reminder of the importance of community and the need to prioritize public worship in our lives. By doing so, we can build stronger relationships with one another and create a supportive environment where we can grow in our faith. [12:33]
Psalm 122:1 (ESV): "I was glad when they said to me, 'Let us go to the house of the Lord!'"
Reflection: What steps can you take to ensure you are regularly attending public worship services and engaging with your church community?
Day 3: Genuine Care for Believers
The early church shared their possessions and met each other's needs, demonstrating a deep sense of community and mutual support. This caring extended beyond the church walls, impacting the broader community and leading to daily additions to their numbers. We must strive to care for one another genuinely and sacrificially. Genuine care involves more than just meeting physical needs; it also includes emotional and spiritual support, as well as being present for one another in times of joy and sorrow.
In our fast-paced and individualistic society, it can be easy to overlook the needs of others or to become so focused on our own lives that we forget to care for those around us. The early church's example challenges us to be more intentional in our relationships and to seek out opportunities to serve and support one another. By doing so, we can create a loving and supportive community that reflects the love of Christ to the world. [23:06]
Galatians 6:2 (ESV): "Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ."
Reflection: Who in your church community could use your support this week? How can you show genuine care for them in a practical way?
Day 4: Resisting Cultural Trends
Our culture often resists and distorts the teaching of God's Word. We must remain committed to the public learning of Scripture and resist the temptation to seek only what is new and novel. The timeless truths of the Bible are essential for our spiritual growth and must not be abandoned. In a world that is constantly changing and where new ideas and philosophies are always emerging, it is crucial to stay grounded in the unchanging truth of God's Word.
The early church faced many cultural pressures and challenges, yet they remained steadfast in their commitment to the apostles' teaching. This serves as a reminder for us to be vigilant in our own lives and to ensure that we are not swayed by the latest trends or popular opinions. By staying rooted in Scripture, we can discern truth from falsehood and remain faithful to the teachings of Christ. [15:12]
2 Timothy 4:3-4 (ESV): "For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths."
Reflection: Are there any cultural trends or ideas that have influenced your thinking? How can you realign your beliefs with the timeless truths of Scripture?
Day 5: Commitment to Growth
We must ask ourselves if we are committed to the practices and relationships necessary for our spiritual growth. Whether it be public learning, public worship, or genuine caring, we need to evaluate and recommit to these elements to truly be the church. This commitment will help us grow individually and collectively as a community of believers. Spiritual growth requires intentionality and dedication, and it is important to regularly assess our progress and make adjustments as needed.
The early church's example of devotion to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer serves as a model for us to follow. By committing to these practices, we can create an environment where spiritual growth is nurtured and where we can support one another in our journey of faith. Let us strive to be the church, not just attend it, by engaging in these practices and relationships that stimulate growth. [28:52]
Colossians 2:6-7 (ESV): "Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving."
Reflection: What specific steps can you take this week to recommit to the practices and relationships that are essential for your spiritual growth?
Quotes
1. "The church is not a building, but a people, a people of God. And this sermon series is exploring what does it mean to be the people of God here in Brick, New Jersey? How do we experience the reality and the mission of the church? How do we experience the reality and the mission of the church in our local congregation right here?" [02:14] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "What's our mission as a church? To develop mature believers. To reflect the image of Christ. It comes from the very mission of our founder, Jesus Christ. Before he ascended to heaven, he said, go and make disciples of all people, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. He gave us a mission to make disciples. And so at Living Faith, we speak about it as developing mature believers who reflect the image of Christ." [05:01] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Taking the cue from the earliest church, the mission as a local church should be focusing on the practices and relationships that lead to spiritual growth. How do we help people become mature believers who reflect the image of Christ? How do we help people to be all that they can be in Jesus Christ? How do we grow disciples? If the mission of a restaurant is to make food, the mission of a church must be to make disciples." [07:38] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "We gather for public learning of the Scriptures. Now, in the first, first century, in that first period of time, right after the resurrection of Jesus, the only Scriptures that the earliest believers had was the Old Testament. And no doubt, they combed through the Old Testament trying to understand the mystery of Christ and the prophecies of Christ and how all of that was applicable to their lives today as believers in the Messiah Jesus." [08:33] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "We learn together the Scriptures. The earliest church shows us that model, and we should continue to follow that model even 2,000 years later. When you think about why the Scripture is important, we can talk about the Scripture being important because it's both the milk and the meat that we need to grow as Christians. How can we grow as Christians without the milk and the meat of the Word? How can a person physically grow without nourishment? How can a person grow spiritually without nourishment? Nourishment from the Word." [13:13] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "Gathering together for corporate prayer is certainly one of the things that's being spoken of in this text. Public worship. Now the reality is, is that public worship in our day is a thing that is being greatly challenged. Let's just face it. This is a news article from March of this year speaking about a Gallup poll that showed that church attendance has declined in most U.S. religious groups. Three in ten U.S. adults attend religious services regularly, led by Mormons at 67%." [20:16] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "As a church, we must be ready to gather for genuine caring for believers and resist that apathy that's so prevalent in our day. Look at what the text says in verse 44. All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who has need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all people." [23:06] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "We believe the Christian life is not meant to be lived alone, but in community. I want to encourage you to think about that in your own life as I think about it in mine. And ask yourself this question, am I committed to the practices and relationships necessary for my spiritual growth? Is there a practice, whether it be public learning, public worship, or genuine caring, is there relationships that I'm ignoring or just not showing enough emphasis on that might need to change if truly we are to be the church?" [30:19] (42 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "I've thought soberly about that this week. And I have some ideas in my own mind about things that I need to focus on. And I'd ask you to also ask the Lord to say, Lord, what would you have for me so that not only can I be attending the church, but being the church? Lord, help us to be the church." [30:46] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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