Acts #3
On October 2, 1972, in Richmond, Virginia, Stephen led a gathering in prayer, expressing gratitude for the presence of Jesus Christ. He emphasized the importance of the Holy Spirit and the desire for divine revelation. The discussion centered on Acts 2, where Peter urged repentance and baptism, leading to the addition of three thousand souls to the church. Stephen highlighted the significance of the early church's unity and shared life, where believers were baptized into one body under Christ. He noted that the apostles' teaching was rooted in the revelation of Jesus, emphasizing the importance of fellowship among believers. The breaking of bread was a central practice, symbolizing their life centered on Christ. Stephen cautioned against viewing communion as a mere ritual, stressing its role in maintaining a Christ-centered community. He concluded by encouraging the assembly of believers, underscoring the need for mutual support and the spontaneous expression of love within the body of Christ. The early church's life serves as a model for contemporary believers, demonstrating the principles of unity, teaching, and fellowship in the Spirit.
- Introduction and prayer led by Stephen
- Reading from Acts 2 and 4
- Importance of the Holy Spirit in the early church
- Unity and shared life among believers
- Teaching of the apostles as revelation from Christ
- Significance of breaking bread and prayer
- Encouragement for regular assembly and mutual support
- Conclusion emphasizing the model of the early church
32 And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common. 33 And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all. 34 Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold, 35 And laid them down at the apostles’ feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need.
37 Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? 38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. 39 For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. 40 And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation. 41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.
42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. 43 And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. 44 And all that believed were together, and had all things common; 45 And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. 46 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, 47 Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
