The Church Is Born

A large crowd gathered around the house where the Holy Spirit had come down in an amazing way and filled the apostles with power.

Peter, who was filled with the Holy Spirit, boldly began to preach to the crowd, telling them what the prophet Joel had said: “God will pour out His Spirit on everyone.”

When the people heard Peter’s words, they were deeply troubled about their sin and asked, “What should we do?”

Peter replied, “Turn away from your sin and be baptized in the name of Jesus. Then God will forgive you and give you the Holy Spirit.”

Many believed and were baptized, and about three thousand people were added to the Church that day. They began meeting together in groups, sharing what they owned and worshiping in the Temple courts daily.

How and when did the Church begin?

While the disciples were gathered in a room, not knowing what would happen next, the Lord was preparing the Church for its beginning.

Then, on the day the Holy Spirit came down, the disciples began sharing the message of Jesus with the crowds. The Church immediately started to grow as thousands believed and were saved. The newborn Church became active, grew, and had a purpose. This is what happened:

They met for worship, prayer, and breaking bread (communion).
They eagerly listened to the apostles’ teaching.
They shared what they owned and helped those in need.
They used their spiritual gifts, and God worked through them in amazing ways.

As they preached the Word of God, many turned from their sin and were saved. Those who were saved joined the group of believers, and the living Church continued to grow.

Verse for today

And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. Matthew 16:18

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