I have heard Bill Hybels, Senior Pastor of Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington, IL, talk about an Acts 2 church. How he wants Willow Creek to be an Acts 2 church. But what is an Acts 2 church? Today’s reading reveals this secret (not really a secret as it is in the Bible in plain view).

Verses 42-47 provide a concise summary of what the early church was about. It provides a model that can be applied to the modern church as well.

An Acts 2 church is characterized by:

Teaching. All Christians, new and experienced, need to further their spiritual formation. Teaching helps them understand this need and how to advance on this path.

Fellowship. The sharing experiences, learning from each other, and encouraging each other.

Joining in the breaking of bread. The remembering of what Jesus did for us on the cross. The realization that grace is a gift from God. The celebratory waiting for the return of Christ.

Prayer. This includes corporate prayer (i.e., church service) and private, personal prayer.

I feel Saint Matthews does a good job of all of this. But of course there is always room for improvement. What could you or I do to help make these improvements? I submit it is not always easy, but getting involved, using your spiritual gifts, is what we are all called to do. So get involved – if you are not sure how, talk to any church leader.

Wishing you much success in your walk with Christ,

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