The Limping Church

Years ago when I was serving one of the several urban churches in Columbus, Georgia, a neighboring pastor and friend developed a small group ministry he called "The 2:42 Ministry." He gave me a copy of the outline for the small group work and I made use of it over the years.  It was based on Acts 2:42 which reads, "They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers."  This verse which comes toward the end of the second chapter of Acts gives us some insight into the ministries which sustained the post Pentecost church as it went forward.

 

It also opens up another window for us as we consider the question, "How can we create and sustain a sacred community in a secular world?"  Surely, this verse points to the importance of sound doctrine and authoritative teaching as something which has sustaining power for the church.  As is always the case, there are many things out there being taught which fail to meet the criteria set forth by this verse.  Too much teaching is more about personal opinions and the message of the majority than something which is Biblically based.

 

It should not be a strange idea that the Word of God is a sufficient, authoritative, and true Word for the people of God in our sacred communities. (II Timothy 3:16-17)  However, it often seems that what the secular world wants these days is the Word of God Plus whatever it is that tickles ears and lessens its convicting power.  The sacred community we know and experience as the church can never really be sustained when the Word of God is compromised.  It may not die, but it will surely limp along down the wide road.