“Christian, A Good Name” by PT Mammen
Scripture Reference: Acts 11:19-30
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%2011:19-30&version=31
Today we will identify what makes people call you a Christian.
The disciples were called Christians in Antioch, and this name was the first time on record in all of history. There is some thing unique about a name, and in this case Christ is the center. A church is born of the Holy Spirit by prayer, evangelism, discipleship and ministry.
This name implies: (1) Faith in Jesus of Nazareth. The message the disciples preached was inclusive the totality of the person of Christ. Salvation and forgiveness can be obtained by faith In Him, and adherence to the ceremonial law is not required. The way is open for gentiles.
(2) The hand of God is upon them – working miracles and wonders is an automatic effect of the miracle working power of God.
(3) They received servants of God who had a specific ministry.
(4) Message was equally accessible to all nations, castes, colors, Jews or gentiles. The Jerusalem church had a policy of sending senior apostles to newly formed churches to encourage and stay connected as one body.
(5) Leaders had to be good people, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, able to see the grace of God at work.
(6) Leaders knew how to find suitable help to continue and build strong communities of faith. There is no room for personal jealousies or confusion or competition, complementing each other’s strengths.
(7) Generosity and liberality was at work wanting to provide for the needs of others who were desperate. They gave according to each one’s ability, and managed resources responsibly entrusting the collection to the elders.
Let Christ be glorified.
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%2011:19-30&version=31
Today we will identify what makes people call you a Christian.
The disciples were called Christians in Antioch, and this name was the first time on record in all of history. There is some thing unique about a name, and in this case Christ is the center. A church is born of the Holy Spirit by prayer, evangelism, discipleship and ministry.
This name implies: (1) Faith in Jesus of Nazareth. The message the disciples preached was inclusive the totality of the person of Christ. Salvation and forgiveness can be obtained by faith In Him, and adherence to the ceremonial law is not required. The way is open for gentiles.
(2) The hand of God is upon them – working miracles and wonders is an automatic effect of the miracle working power of God.
(3) They received servants of God who had a specific ministry.
(4) Message was equally accessible to all nations, castes, colors, Jews or gentiles. The Jerusalem church had a policy of sending senior apostles to newly formed churches to encourage and stay connected as one body.
(5) Leaders had to be good people, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, able to see the grace of God at work.
(6) Leaders knew how to find suitable help to continue and build strong communities of faith. There is no room for personal jealousies or confusion or competition, complementing each other’s strengths.
(7) Generosity and liberality was at work wanting to provide for the needs of others who were desperate. They gave according to each one’s ability, and managed resources responsibly entrusting the collection to the elders.
Let Christ be glorified.
Played: 3 | Download | Duration: 00:38:45
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