Our New Testament reading for the last week has been in the book of Acts. It has been an eye opener for me because it has truly shown me what the church today should be. The church of the book of Acts, was strong and mighty. They preached the uncompromising Word of God and practiced it. I was pondering on Acts chapter 12 this morning and researching the early church. My study bible's notes were written by Donald C. Stamps. While a missionary in Brazil he realized how important it was that christian workers needed a bible that would give them direction in their thinking and preaching. He devoted his spare time to writing articles and notes to help give Christians a practical way to put the gospel to work in their lives. When he returned to the United States he had comprised notes and commentaries for the Full Life Study Bible. I would like to share 16 standards that Mr. Stamps believes made the church of Acts so strong and vital and what will make our churches today the same way.

1-They were a church that was united by the Holy Spirit, diligently seeking a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Oh how we need this in our churches today. (I Cor. 16: 19)

2-Through their powerful witness, sinners were saved and baptized in the Holy Spirit. They took part in the Lord's communion and waited earnestly for the Lord's return. (Acts 2: 41-42)

3-The baptism of the Holy Spirit was preached and communicated to new believers. His presence and power was manifested. Sometimes we leave this important part of our christian training out, because people may become offended. (Act 2: 39)

4-The Gifts of the Holy Spirit were in operation, including signs, wonders, and healing. (Romans 12: 6-8)

5-The five fold ministry gifts, given by God were in operation. (Ephesians 4: 11-12)

6-Believers cast out demons (Mark 16:17)

7-There was absolute loyalty to the gospel, the original teachings of Jesus Christ. They truly devoted themselves to the study of the Word and obeying it. (Acts 6: 4)

8-They met together for worship and mutual edification. (I Cor. 12: 7-11)

9-They stood in humility and awe and fear before the presence of a Holy God. (I Cor. 5: 1-13)

10-Elders were chosen carefully and prayerfully because they would be responsible for overseeing the spiritual life of the believers. (I Timothy 3: 1-7)

11-Deacons were chosen in the same manner to oversee the material matters of the church. (I Timothy 3: 8)

12-There was observable love among them, not only in their own congregation but other Bible believing churches. (2 Cor. 8- 1-8)

13-They were praying and fasting churches (Romans 12:12)

14-They separated themselves from the world's view and it's spirit. (Galatians 1: 4)

15-They realized there would be suffering and affliction because of the world and it's ways. (Acts 4: 1-3)

16-They actively helped send missionaries to other lands. (Act 13:2-4)

I listed these because we need to be so careful that we don't just choose a church because of the size of the building or who goes there. Are they truly doing the important things, the way God has intended them. I encourage you to study the book of Acts and then take an honest look at where you are. Do you want to see change in your life and in the world? Then find a church that is doing it God's Way!

Jackie Burner-Director of Women's Ministry