Building on the Cornerstone

Based on false charges, Stephen is brought before the religious leaders and asked if these claims are true (Acts 7). In his final speech, Stephen lays it all out there and points out how they have missed everything. In these final moments, Stephen imitates Jesus – he confessed Christ before men, he commits his spirit to the Lord, and finally seeks forgiveness for those taking his life. Our lesson in this – We should imitate Jesus in everything we do.

Like any organization, as the church continued to grow there were some growing pains (Acts 6:1-15). The apostles recognized that they needed help and appointed the first group of deacons to the church. People known to be full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom. Included in this group is Stephen, who would become the first martyr of the Christian church. Stephen’s serves as an example – to let your spirit filled life stand as your witness.

Is there ever a time when civil disobedience can be a good thing? Listen in as we examine a biblical model (Acts 5:17-32), reflect on the civil rights movement and discuss our current national climate. Then, come join us, Sunday mornings at 10 am as we continue to build a Christ-centered community here in Thomasville, GA.

We gathered for worship after a difficult week in our nation and we start our worship turning all this over to God as we work to move forward.

Our text this week is a challenge as well (Acts 4:34-37; Acts 5:1-11). As the Church continues to form and grow, deception and hypocrisy enter into the church. This story reveals how deceiving God has devastating consequences. Hypocrisy can destroy communities – even churches. We are called to be honest and open. We are called to encourage one another through our struggles. Encouragement builds community.

Have you ever done something and then were asked to explain yourself? After healing the lame man, Peter and John were called out by the Chief Priest and asked to explain themselves. By what authority were they able to do such miracles? Peter and John did not hesitate with their response – it is by the name of Jesus of Nazareth that the man walks (Acts 4:1-31). Their boldness inspired many. Let us work to live such a transformed life that we have to explain ourselves. And when asked, be ready to share the good news of Jesus.

Did you ever get to read those great children’s books – Choose Your Own Adventure? Where you got to decide which path to follow and see where the adventure took you. Sometimes the rewards were great, while other times the ending was dire. This week we are looking at Acts 3:1-26. Read along as you listen and choose a character to follow. Will it be the the apostles, the crippled man, or the crowd? Join in our conversation about what we see and feel as we follow these characters.