Lecture Notes: The Book of Acts and the Early Church

Introduction

• Focus on the book of Acts to learn how to operate as a congregation.
• Importance of operating in the gifts and fruits of the Spirit.
• Continuation from the previous segment on apostolic commands.

Scripture Significance

• All Scripture is profitable; apostolic commands hold equal weight with those of the Messiah and the Torah.
• Torah means teaching or instruction; often translated as law.

Commands of the Messiah

• Know why Yahshua is the Messiah.
• Preach repentance and baptism in Yahshua's name for remission of sins.

Key Questions Addressed

• Invoking holy fear of Yahweh.
• The meaning of breaking bread.
• Early believers pooling resources.
• Practicing biblical giving.
• Instances of severe judgment in the New Testament.
• Lack of miracles today compared to the first century.
• Requirement for Yahweh to perform miracles through us.
• Importance of not relying on public opinion.
• Times of refreshing for believers.
• Overcoming timidity in sharing the good news.

The Early Church Practices

• Acts 2:41-47: Continuation in apostles' doctrine, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayers.
• Holy fear among believers due to signs and wonders.
• Breaking of bread signifies fellowship, not necessarily the Eucharist.
• Radical communal lifestyle among early believers.
• Importance of radical giving and having a self-denying mentality.
• Miracles were a sign of Yahweh's favor and were a response to radical faith and giving.

Spiritual and Physical Generosity

• Giving to those in need as a commandment.
• True discipleship involves self-sacrificing and love for others.
• Yahshua's life mission was characterized by giving.

Miracles and Faith

• Acts 3:1-16: Healing of the lame man as a testament to Yahshua's power.
• Miracles serve the purpose of glorifying Yahweh, not individuals.
• Importance of maintaining humility and faith.

The Role of Prayer and Boldness

• Acts 4:23-31: Prayer for boldness in the face of persecution.
• The necessity of prayer in overcoming fear and societal pressures.
• Sharing faith requires boldness and a love for others.

Conclusion

• Followers of Yahshua are called to live with radical generosity and humility.
• True faith involves a focus on spiritual well-being and the needs of others.
• Importance of giving glory to Yahweh in all things.

Reflection

• Consider how Yahweh's commands are lived out in daily life.
• Examine personal attitudes toward giving and sharing faith.