Biblically Based, Christ Centered, Caring Community in Annapolis, MD
This 11-week series looks at the growth of the early church in the book of Acts, giving an overview of the characteristics of a thriving, ever-growing Church. This not only helps us understand how the early church went from a small band of fearful disciples to a worldwide movement full of the Spirit’s power in a few short decades but also gives principles for growing thriving churches in our own day as well.
The book of Acts closes with a bold, unhindered proclamation of the Gospel – in spite of all the oppositions of Satan and the world – which guarantees a glorious thriving future for the Church and the kingdom of God.
Acts 28:30-31
God is on a mission to glorify the name of His Son, Jesus. There are times that God has chosen to use persecution to ensure that the gospel of His Son goes forth and that His Church thrives.
Acts 8:1-8
Luke describes the early church as thriving with continuous growth as it is strengthened by the Spirit through the means of grace to fulfill the Great Commission – even in the face of severe opposition.
Acts 6:7; 9:31; 12:24; 16:5; 19:20
A look at the outreach of the church to Gentiles.
Acts 10:30-35, 39-48a
NOTE: Due to a technical problem this teaching was not recorded.
As Paul learned on the road to Damascus, we thrive not through our own righteousness, but because we have a vital unity with Christ and His Church.
Acts 9:1-6
The Church exists because of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. And, the primary means by which it continues to thrive is the power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Acts 4:1-12
A thriving church is a true community, centered on Christ, awed by God’s power, showing practical love, living life together, and experiencing God’s favor.
Acts 2:42-47
As the church, we thrive only by the grace of God which we experience through the means of grace. Therefore we must embrace and intentionally seek to cultivate that grace in our lives as part of the church.
Acts 2:36-42
A thriving, growing church is fueled by a life of prayer, enjoying communion with God, and crying out for Him to work in their midst.
Acts 1:12-14; 4:23-31
A thriving church must be filled with the power of the Holy Spirit to know and accomplish God’s call.
Acts 2:1-12
A thriving, growing church understands that our mission propels us into all the world – from our local area to the farthest corners of the globe.
Acts 1:6-8