The pattern of what a church is to do: teaching, fellowship, sacraments, prayer. The early Christians were determined to learn all they could from the appointed preachers. God has put something within us that desires to be in relationship, in covenant; we are hungry for fellowship. They received their food with glad and generous hearts. Prayer humbles us before the Lord. In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; in all things, charity.
Text: Acts 2:42-47, 1 Corinthians 1:10-13
The Reformers tell us that the two marks of a true church are: first, the faithful preaching and teaching of the Word of God, and secondly, the right administration of the Sacraments (i.e. Baptism and the Lord’s Supper). In addition, the Bible teaches us that a true church should manifest a deep level of fellowship. This includes tender relations amongst one another, loving discipline for those who go astray, and a warm-hearted hospitality to those within and outside the church. Moreover, all of the members of Christ’s Church should be people of prayer. In summary, Jesus Christ told his disciples: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (cf. John 13:34-35). Let us resolve to faithfully do these things! |
