I am a great fan of Acts 2: 42 - 47 and in my missioner role, I come a cross a good many people who especially love the "The Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved," bit! The problem is that many I meet suddenly find the impetus for church growth is the Parish Share or emptying (or in one case, empty) buildings.
So what can we learn from todays lectionary reading from Acts?
A healthy church is passionate about the word of God.
This means that the members read it (if only this were true)
That the ministers read it for themselves (should we do a straw poll on this?)
That the word of God is taught faithfully (Mmmmm - one local bloke tells me it's a book of suggestion for living, not rules for life!!!)
That a healthy church lives as a family (or perhaps a cup of tea after the service is adequate?)
A healthy church meets to share a social evening to enjoy each other, not to raise money!
A healthy church cares for each other, even the mentally ill!
A healthy church breaks bread together (including the reforming alcoholics)
A healthy church has members who pray regularly (and I don't mean when their team is playing!)
A healthy church comes together for prayer (oh well!)
A healthy church has people praying for others.
A healthy church prays for, expects, and sees signs and wonders (do we, are you?)
A healthy church lives in their own homes and lives with others in relationship such that when a need arises, it is dealt with from within the church.
When one member has a need, then all have a need and all find a way to resolve that need (but we're not stupid - keep getting into debt and you'll also find a healthy church has wisdom and does discipline!!!).
A healthy church meets regularly. The church is out doing and being and the building is open and welcoming those who aren't Church.
A healthy church sees members visiting other members, eating, drinking and sharing their lives outside of the Sunday (mandatory) engagement!
A healthy church is attractive and compelling and you have to ask people to stop joining because otherwise we'll have to start working and being effective in the community!
A healthy church doesn't worry about Parish Share, it's too busy sharing in the Parish!
And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.
Tick the list above and then:
1. Pray about who you are,
2. Pray about who (and what) your church is,
3. Ask God for directions for you (me), them (us) and them (those outside)
4. Listen to God (He can speak if you give Him the chance),
and then nag your pastor/minister/shepherd/dog-collar/congregation accordingly
Pax
"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 favour of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved."
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