The Missional Church: Understanding
Acts 4:1-3
What is a Missional Church?
A missional church is one that actively follows the teachings of Jesus Christ and spreads the Gospel. Acts 4:1-3 provides a powerful example of how the early church functioned with faith, boldness, and unity, leading to transformative change in people’s lives. This passage highlights four major aspects of a missional church: individual faithfulness, boldness, the act of God, and the church as a family.
1. Individual Faithfulness: A Commitment to the Gospel
In Acts 4, Peter and John were arrested for preaching about Jesus, yet they remained steadfast. Faithfulness to Christ means standing firm in our beliefs, even when faced with opposition.
Peter and John boldly declared that they could not stop speaking about what they had seen and heard.
Peter, who once denied Jesus three times, was now preaching with conviction, leading 3,000 people to salvation.
The power of Jesus’ name was evident, as even in difficult times, 5,000 more people believed.
Peter’s confidence came from his relationship with Jesus. Likewise, believers today must examine their hearts, remove sin, and trust in Jesus.
Salvation is only found in Jesus’ name (Acts 4:12).
2. Individual Boldness: The Power of Standing Firm
Acts 4:13-20 describes how the religious leaders were amazed at Peter and John because they were uneducated and untrained yet spoke with great authority. Their boldness came not from their qualifications but from their time spent with Jesus.
God does not require human credentials; He empowers those who seek Him.
Peter and John’s confidence came from making Jesus the King of their lives.
They prayed for boldness to continue preaching the Gospel, despite threats from authorities.
Today, believers should not focus on their limitations but instead trust in Christ’s authority and guidance.
3. The Act of God: The Power of Prayer
The early church understood the importance of prayer and God’s intervention. When believers walk faithfully with Jesus, He works in their lives and the lives of others.
God’s power is greater than our efforts; we need His hand at work, not just our own abilities.
Many people today are broken due to depression, lust, jealousy, and struggles within families and jobs.
Miracles happen when we pray with faith, just as they did in the early church.
Prayer should not be our last resort but our first response when seeking God’s intervention.
As a missional church, we must intercede for those in need and trust in God’s power.
4. Becoming a Family of God: Unity in Christ
The early church was a close-knit family, supporting one another and ensuring no one lacked anything. This is the model for the modern church as well.
We are one body in Christ, called to help and support each other.
If a fellow believer is in need, we should willingly provide and sacrifice for them.
True sacrifice comes when we understand the ultimate sacrifice Jesus made for us.
The church in Jerusalem was the first example of this selfless community, where everyone shared and supported each other.
When we function as a unified body, we become a strong and thriving church, just like the early believers.
Living as a Missional Church
The missional church is more than just a gathering; it is a movement fueled by faith, boldness, prayer, and unity. Acts 4:1-3 reminds us that a true church follows Christ wholeheartedly, preaches the gospel fearlessly, depends on God’s power, and cares for one another. By embracing these principles, we can build a church that transforms lives and glorifies God.
May God bless you abundantly as you walk in faith and fulfill His mission!
