Characteristics of the Apostolic Church in Acts 2:42-47 and Its Contemporary Relevance for the Church

Abstract

The church has been in existence for nearly 2000 years; over these years, there have been both positive and negative developments. However, there is a need to define the church and distinguish it from other movements, helping the church retain its distinctiveness and apostolic heritage and achieve its mission of being salt and light to the world. This article thus aims to exegete Acts 2:42–47 and bring to light not only the characteristics of the church and its distinctiveness as a movement but also the implications of these characteristics for the broader Christian community. The paper argues that although some summaries in Acts are prescriptive and didactic, providing models to readers across centuries, some sections are descriptive, describing unique activities that are not intended to be prescriptive but rather to convey key principles that guide their application. Therefore, the church must understand itself in light of the contextual realities in Acts 2:42–47 and the light of the ministry of the Holy Spirit. In Acts, believers were filled and guided by the Holy Spirit as they devoted themselves to the teachings of the apostles and fellowship. They broke bread together and were devoted to prayer. They exercised generosity and grace towards one another and those around them, which in turn enhanced their growth. The paper emphasizes that the embodiment of the characteristics displayed in Acts 2:42–47 will lead to the growth of communities that resemble what the Bible envisions as a way for Christians to live together in the world. It will also serve as a distinguishing mark that sets the church apart from any other organized group.