The Book of Acts, John Stott believes, is important not only
for its vivid historical record. It is also vital for the inspiration
which it brings to us now. Today's church can seek to recapture something
of the early confidence, enthusiasm, vision and power of the church of the
first century. Despite all its imperfections and troubles, the young
church clearly had been overwhelmed by the Holy Spirit, who thrust it out
to witness.
The experiences of the early church therefore have much to say about issues
that concern Christians today. What can Acts tell us about extraordinary
manifestations of the Spirit? How should churches structure themselves -
with elders, deacons, pastors or all three? And, of course, how should the
church reach out into a lost world, with the glorious message of
salvation?
for its vivid historical record. It is also vital for the inspiration
which it brings to us now. Today's church can seek to recapture something
of the early confidence, enthusiasm, vision and power of the church of the
first century. Despite all its imperfections and troubles, the young
church clearly had been overwhelmed by the Holy Spirit, who thrust it out
to witness.
The experiences of the early church therefore have much to say about issues
that concern Christians today. What can Acts tell us about extraordinary
manifestations of the Spirit? How should churches structure themselves -
with elders, deacons, pastors or all three? And, of course, how should the
church reach out into a lost world, with the glorious message of
salvation?
As John Stott concludes: 'The Acts of the Apostles have long ago finished:
the acts of the followers of Jesus will continue until the end of the
world.'
