Acts 4
Prominent Characteristics of the Church in Jerusalem
1. sense of unity (v. 32)
- not organizational, but spiritual
- not trans-denomination
v. 2 Jn. 1:7-11: (Draw a strong line against false teachings.)
2. generosity and love for one another
(v. 34-37)
- loving generosity vs. prosperity theology
- selling possesions for their brethren
3. emphasis on Christ's resurrection
(v. 33)
- cultural relevance (Paul) x
- same Gospel should still be preached even today. God's Word is never outdated
Resurrection
a. tangible proof that their is another life (v. Jn. 14:1-3)
- sure of our future existence: heaven or hell
b. seal to all His claims (v. Jn. 2:19)
- temple to rise up after 3 days
- innocent from sin
- deity claims
- Son of God (Rom. 1:4)
* Declaration as the Christ of God because he lives forever.
c. acceptance of Christ as the substitute for sinners
- paid sinner's penalty fully and freed from the law
- Nobody can charge Christ's elect
v. Rom. 8: 33-34
d. guarantee of the elect's resurrection
v. Eph. 2:4-6; John 14:19
e. picture of the new life of Christians
v. Acts 2:1-2; Eph. 2:10
- still experience pain and decay, but have renewed life
* Happy Children of Resurrection
Next PV: I Peter 2:12
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