What we should know firstly about a living church is that the main business of the life and activities of the church at Jerusalem during the days of the Apostles is that there is the perseverance in the Apostolic Teaching. The Apostles were called upon not only to witness to the world but also to teach the Christian family. Secondly, there is fellowship and this indicates an open hearted sharing in which each believer gave to others what he had himself received, whether spiritual or material blessings. Thirdly, there is the breaking of bread. In this context, an equivalent to the Lord’s Supper (taken as part of a common meal, and prayer. The emphasis may be on collective prayer.
The outward influence of the church was seen in a widespread awe, in the performance of miracles and in the addition to the company of those whom God was saving. The great features of the inner life of the church were joy in the Lord, the community of God’s people, fellowship and meetings in the temple courts. And I believe a church lacking these features is in danger of spiritual decay. Are our churches marked with these features? What are to be done? It is my prayer that the Lord Almighty will revive the church in our age and restore the fellowship of the saints.
- By Jokpeme Joseph Omode
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