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Acts 6:7 – 5 Points About Church Growth
“So the word of God spread, the disciples in Jerusalem increased greatly in number, and a large group of priests became obedient to the faith” (CSB Acts 6:7). This is a neglected but powerful verse. Let’s notice 5 points for us imitate:
1. This comes after the church solves an internal problem (6:1-6). Strife, stress, and disorganization within the congregation will stunt growth. This is because attention and time is needed to reach inwardly. That takes away effort to reach out. Think about it, how much gets done when we are sick? Same concept for the church.
2. Growth comes from the word of God being spread. This is the method needed, not benevolent programs towards the world, but God’s benevolence in forgiving sins.
3. Expect growth when we do the first two things. It is easy to get frustrated with a lack of growth. Keep the faith by keeping doing the first things and remember all growth comes from God, His message, in partnership with our work and harmony.
4. The reason a large group of priests became obedient to the faith is because the message focused on the resurrection of Jesus. Priests were Sadducees who did not believe in the resurrection. Seeing their reception to the truth is powerful! People can change! That gives us two needed realities within our preaching: 1) Focus on Jesus; 2) Focus on their individual needs.
5. “Faith only” is a popular denomination slogan. “You can’t obey good news” is another. Neither is biblical. “Good news” is the literal meaning of gospel and while not used in this verse obedience to the gospel is found connected in Romans 10:16. But…what is our faith in? Jesus Christ who is the gospel! Notice how it is all brought together in Romans 10:15-17 (CSB): 15) As it is written: How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news. 16) But not all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah says, Lord, who has believed our message? 17) So faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes through the message about Christ. (Romans 10:15-17). A faith that saves is a faith that obeys the Savior.
Let’s do our part by having harmony within, working hard to reach out, and wait expectantly as God provides the growth. Don’t neglect reliving this verse.
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