Building a Church that reflects God's Vision

The early church provides a powerful blueprint for how modern churches should operate and fulfill their divine purpose. Through examining Acts chapter 1, we discover essential principles for being the church God intended.

What is the True Purpose of the Church?
The church isn't meant to be confined by preferences or traditions. Instead, it should be a bright, clear light to a world in darkness. The church's mission extends far beyond local impact - it's called to reach "Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the ends of the earth."

How Should Church Leadership Be Chosen?
Leadership selection shouldn't be based on credentials or popularity, but on God's choosing. The early church's only qualification for leadership was having walked with Jesus and knowing Him personally. Leaders must be chosen through prayer and seeking God's will, not human preferences.

Who Makes Up the Church?
God's church includes people of all:

• Ages (children through elderly)
• Backgrounds
• Social status
• Education levels

The early disciples were considered "ordinary, unschooled" people, yet God used them powerfully. This shows that God can use anyone who is willing and obedient.

What Should Be the Church's Focus?
While local ministry is important, the church must maintain a broader vision:

• Local community impact
• Regional influence
• National reach
• Global missions

Churches shouldn't become insular or focused only on their immediate vicinity. The message of Jesus is meant for everyone, everywhere.

How can we apply this to our daily lives?
Consider these questions:

• Am I limiting God's use of my life based on my own perceived inadequacies?
• Does my vision for ministry extend beyond my local community?
• Am I walking in obedience to what God has called me to do?

This week's challenge: Identify one way you've been holding back from serving God due to feeling unqualified. Take one step of faith to serve in that area, remembering that God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things.

Remember: God doesn't call the qualified; He qualifies the called. Your willingness to serve is more important than your perceived abilities.