A Dynamic Church
Church as Community
Acts 2:42–47; Romans 12:9–18
For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not
perish but have eternal life. God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him.
John 3:16–17
I. A dynamic church develops genuine fellowship
All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the
Lord’s Supper), and to prayer. A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous
signs and wonders. And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. They sold their
property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. They worshiped together at the Temple each day,
met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity— all the while praising God
and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being
saved. Acts 2:42–47
A. Christian fellowship involves more than casual friendship.
B. Genuine fellowship develops through intentional relationships.
II. A dynamic church recognizes God at work among his people
A. The early church experienced a sense of awe.
B. God's work becomes visible through the love of His people.
C. We must protect the unity that allows our fellowship to flourish.
III. A dynamic church understands that we need one another
Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out
and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
A. God never intended for us to live the Christian life alone.
B. Our culture often encourages independence instead of community.
C. Community becomes stronger when everyone contributes.
IV. A dynamic church puts Christian love into action
Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Romans 12:9
A. Genuine love must be demonstrated through our actions.
10 Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other.
11 Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically.
12 Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying.
13 When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality.
14 Bless those who persecute you. Don’t curse them; pray that God will bless them.
15 Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep.
16 Live in harmony with each other. Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you
know it all!
17 Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable.
18 Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone. Romans 12:10-18
B. Christian love reaches beyond the people we know best.
First, connect with someone.
Second, care for someone.
Third, reach someone.
Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world
that you are my disciples. John 13:34-35
