When the gospel first began to be preached it resulted in the Lord adding those who were being saved to His Church (Acts 2:41 & 47). Those who were added to the Church are said to have continued steadfast in several areas of interest (Acts 2:42 & 47). As those who desire to be a part of that same Church today, we at the Munford Church of Christ strive to stay steadfast in those same ares.

 

First, they remained steadfast in the “apostles' doctrine”. These were not teachings of their own design, but the things which they had been taught by Jesus Christ (Matthew 28:19-20). These things they gladly taught to other faithful men who would continue to teach them to others (2 Timothy 2:2). The Scriptures make it plain that all we do in word (the things we teach) and deed (the things we practice) be done in the name (by the authority) of the Lord (Colossians 3:17).

 

Second, they continued steadfast in “fellowship”. Fellowship begins vertically, between the individual and God. It then extends horizontally, between those who are a part of that fellowship with Him (1 John 1:3). The word “fellowship” (Acts 2:42) is translated as “communion” elsewhere (1 Corinthians 10:16-17). These verses emphasize the “oneness” of those who share fellowship with God. 

 

Third, they continued steadfast in the “breaking of bread”. This was a common phrase, that would come to indicate a very special memorial, the Lord’s Supper (1 Corinthians 11:17-34). It is the primary reason that the Church meets every first day of the week (Acts 20:7). They steadfastly remember the body and blood of Jesus Christ which was sacrificed so that we might have remission of sins (Matthew 26:26-28).

 

Fourth, they continued steadfastly in “prayers”. Jesus taught His disciples to pray (Luke 11:1-4). The Scripture says concerning prayer, “I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men” (1 Timothy 2:1). Also, “I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting” (1 Timothy 2:8). Prayer is a vital part of the steadfast Church.

 

Finally, they remained steadfast in “praising God” (Acts 2:47). When Jesus was born the angels announced it to the shepherds while praising God (Luke 2:13-14). When Jesus entered Jerusalem, in the last week of His life on earth, “the disciples began to rejoice and praise God” (Luke 19:37-38). When the lame man was healed at the gate Beautiful, “all the people saw him walking and praising God” (Acts 3:8-9). How much more should we steadfastly praise God who, through love, have received grace and mercy by the sacrifice of His Son (John 3:16).