Practical Outworking of the Church's Purpose

Look at the strategy of the early church in Acts 2:42-47 as they sought to love God and to love people. Note that they "devoted themselves to" these activities. They saw these activities as more than good ideas or possible means of fulfilling God's purposes. Their practice was rooted in convictions that enabled total commitment. Without convictions it is too easy to get discouraged or distracted and to give up.

nurture/edification

(Acts 2:42 - to the apostles teaching)

--getting to know Him
worship

(Acts 2:42 - breaking of bread, prayer; 2:42 - filled with awe; 2:47 - praising God)

--putting Him first, acknowledging His work
prayer

(Acts 2:42 - prayer)

--communicating and working in cooperation with Him

fellowship

(Acts 2:42 - fellowship, breaking bread; 2:46 - meeting together)

--getting to know fellow believers
benevolence

(Acts 2:44-45 - gave to anyone in need)

--participating in God's work of meeting people's needs
evangelism/outreach

(Acts 2:47 - favor of all the people, Lord added those being saved)

--helping others get to know Him and put Him first

The practical outworking of God’s purposes become the strategies of the church -- objectives that must be kept in balance. We cannot be lopsided or emphasize one to the exclusion of others. If we love God, we must love people.

Our mission statement of how we will fulfill God’s purposes must include all of these objectives. It must be kept ever before us to guide our decision-making and provide a standard for ministry.

Interested in a Print Version?

Church Purpose Manual
Church Purpose
Ministry Manual

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