Introduction: In this passage of scripture we see a new local assembly of believer, a new local church forming in Jerusalem. According Acts 1:8, the church started in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the uttermost part of the earth. The local church was instituted by God to accomplish His work on this earth. Acts 2:42 tells us that the early church was steadfast in four different area. And because they were steadfast, the church was alive, unified, joyful, and it kept multiplying. This is the way it should continue to be today. To be steadfast is to be firmly fixed, established, constant, and steady.
Like the Early Church, the Christian Must Be Steadfast In:
- The Apostles’ Doctrine- The doctrine is essentially the teaching of God’s Word given by Jesus Christ to the Apostles and what we have today. The New Testament/Pauline epistles. They weren’t receiving opinions, thoughts, religion, or philosophy- It was the Word of God. The local church will grow, mature and be formed to what God wants it to be, when it teaches, believes, and abides in the Word of God. When we are steadfast in the Word of God- we will be grounded and growing in the grace and knowledge of our savior Jesus Christ.
- The Fellowship of Believers- Being in fellowship with likeminded believers keeps us encouraged, in unity, and in awareness of each others needs. Fellowship is a major part of the Christian life, when in it’s proper place, that is second to the Apostles’ doctrine. This fellowship includes charity, love in action; bearing burdens, encouraging one another, supporting one another, living as a family. Cleaning and working in this building created that. Creating lasting memories together.
- The Breaking of Bread– When there is Bible teaching and preaching, then fellowship of believers, and you add food, we have a great time! Notice how they used to go from house to house- people shared the burden and responsibility of cooking a meal and then cleaning up and putting stuff away. We are social people that enjoy a good meal. We like tacos, burgers, and hot dogs. This includes hospitality and having people over at your place.
- Our Prayers- What a privilege and honor to approach God directly with our prayers. The local church that gets with God about plans, problems, situations, circumstances, and direction of the local church, is better off than a church that doesn’t. This is not only individual prayer but also corporate prayer. They depended on God for everything. Their prayers were fervent and gave them power, boldness, favor with people, and it brought people to the church in vs 47. When we get used to praying and watching God answering prayers by getting the impossible done, move mountains, it will increase our faith and our prayer life.
Conclusion: If we continue in these things we will have a solid church that is line with God’s Word and that will continue to grow by reproducing itself. Be a steadfast Christian.
Anchor Baptist Church 