Moving in the Apostolic

The Apostolic Church

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Jerusalem—The First Church And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need. So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved (Acts 2:42-47). As we've already seen, the word "first" in 1 Corinthians 12:28 is the Greek word proton, meaning first in time, place, order or importance. The church of Jerusalem was first in time, place, order and importance. All the churches in the book of Acts were apostolic, because they were founded by or had the presence of the apostles. But the Jerusalem church had the presence of the Twelve (including Matthais, who was chosen to replace Judas Iscariot). This church would have a strong apostolic dimension because of the apostles' ministries. The following points list some of the characteristics of the church at Jerusalem: 1. Apostolic Doctrine. The believers continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine. Apostolic teaching is foundational and needs to be in the life of every believer. Apostolic churches are known for sound doctrine based on the Word of God. Apostolic people will be people of sound doctrine. 2. Fellowship. This is the Greek word koinonia , meaning partnership, participation and communion. The apostolic dimension causes strong participation from believers when that dimension is present as believers gather together and fellowship with one another.