Top priorities!

Acts 2:42 gives a picture of the early church as follows:

“And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers.”

These are the priorities of the church in its very first days on earth.  Their pursuit of these things was continual and steadfast – not casual or flippant.  First, they were hearing and applying the apostle’s doctrine or teaching.  These teachings were later written by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit and preserved in our New Testament.  Second, they were dedicated to fellowship.  The Greek word used here is koinonia and means a vital fellowship based upon something shared – in this case their shared relationship to Jesus Christ.  Third, the “breaking of bread” may mean that they shared meals together, but more likely that they were regularly observing the Lord’s Supper together, as He commanded.  Remembering His death and declaring it until He returns.  Finally, they were dedicated to prayer.  Laying their prayers before the Lord together was a regular habit early church.

These four signs of a healthy church have not changed in 2,000 years.  May every local church be characterized by good Bible Teaching, fellowship around Jesus Christ, The celebration of the Lord’s Supper, and an active corporate prayer life.