9marks of a Healthy Church: Membership
10/4/22
Preach
Questions
The Spirit-filled church began at Pentecost [Acts 2]. Thousands are converted [v41] that day. What does the church immediately begin to do [vv42-47]? What does God continue to do [v47]?
Read Acts 8 or at least vv 26-40. What happens to Philip in v26 and v 40? What words might describe these experiences? What might be the significance of this story beginning with signs and wonders? What was the Spirit showing the early church?
Hebrews 10:25 is the classic verse to show that Christians should meet together regularly. Does it apply to you? Read from v19 esp. v24. What are some reasons we need to have fellowship regularly? See also John 13:34-35.
There are many commands to love one another [Romans 12:10, 14:19; Galatians 6:10; 1 Peter 1:22, 2:17, 3:8, 4:8; 1 John 4:7 etc.]. Can you do this if you are not committed to a local church?
Read Ephesians 4:1-6 where Paul explains to the Ephesians why they should put up with one another in love [v2]. Why must we live together in unity according to Paul?
Why must we NOT speak evil of other Christians [James 4:11; Leviticus 19:17]? What practical steps can you take to avoid falling into this sin?
What is the function of spiritual gifts [πνευμάτικα, things of the Holy Spirit]? See 1 Corinthians 14:1-25, esp. v12.