Preparing for Gospel Growth – Acts chapter 1, verses 12 to 26
There are many metaphors of the church:
- A Family
- The Bride of Christ
- A body
- A building
Another metaphor: is the church a Cruise Ship or a Battleship? Similar (both are big and float in water) but very different.
One’s purpose is to please its patrons. Success is when each is satisfied.
The other quite different. Each does its part for the whole, for the ship’s mission.
The growth of the church depends on God. It is Jesus who does it.
THE PRIORITY OF PRAYER, Acts 1:12-14
120 there, including His mother and brothers (who once did not believe in Him). Waiting (not easy!) and praying, for the Holy Spirit to come. He makes us feel our deep dependence before He acts for us, giving what He has promised to give. They kept at it “constantly”. Prayer was part of the rhythm of church life and gospel growth. So many churches no longer have a gathering for prayer.
THE PRIORITY OF GOD’S WORD, Acts 1:15-20
“The scripture had to be fulfilled”
The mystery and questioning that resulted from Judas’ defection. A replacement apostle is needed. A unique time, never to be repeated. Had to be one who had seen and been with Jesus from the beginning.
THE PRIORITY OF DOING GOD’S WILL Acts 1:21-26
They chose (or rather, asked God to choose, verse 25) someone to take Judas’ place. They did this by prayer, then they cast lots, in faith. This was, remember, a unique occasion, and flipping a coin is not recommended as a way of choosing a spiritual leader today.
Approach, my soul, the mercy seat,
John Newton
where Jesus answers pray’r;
there humbly fall before His feet,
for none can perish there.