Acts 4:1-4

From Acts 4 forward, there will be growing tension and conflict in the life of the early church… tension and conflict is not foreign to a healthy church.

Acts 4:5-12

Notice: It was not their kindness or serving that was the problem. It was preaching in the name of Jesus.

- Christianity is inclusive.

- Christianity is exclusive.

Acts 4:13-22

The difference maker was … they had been with Jesus.

- Nothing substitutes for an authentic experience with Jesus.

- Have you been with Jesus?

Listening to God or to men is a fundamental question every believer will face. “Cannot but speak” – they were witness of what they had seen and heard.

Acts 4:23-31

When faced with difficulty:

- They gathered together.

- They looked to the Scriptures for insight.

- They prayed for boldness.

Acts 4:32-37

Gospel did not just transform their words, it touched their wallets.

They willfully gave to others, and met one another’s needs.

Barnabas begins his leadership influence by personally, sacrificially investing in the mission of the church and trusting the leaders.