​“Brothers, what shall we do?”

Acts 2:37b

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“Peter replied, ‘Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off, for all whom the Lord our God will call.’ …Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day. They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.”

Acts 2:38-47

 

1. God’s Design for His Church

 

“The church isn’t a building; it’s a family on a mission.”

 

• They united as one congregation. They didn’t just gather; they became a family, deeply connected and committed to one another.

• They worshiped in the Temple courts. They gathered in large spaces, much like we do today, to celebrate and praise God together. We are one church that meets in multiple locations, Springhill, Columbia, Maury, Perry, and Williamson County Jails.

• They met in small groups in homes. Fellowship wasn’t limited to Sundays; they built relationships and shared life throughout the week.

• They gave generously and joyfully. Their open-handed living was a reflection of their open hearts.

• They built a reputation for love. Their community noticed their kindness, compassion, and care for one another.

• They brought people to Christ every day. Evangelism wasn’t a program; it was a way of life.

 

2. A Church That Changes a City Starts with Changed Hearts

 

Greek word “Metanoia” = A change of mind.

 

“The call to follow Christ is a call to come and die.”

-Dietrich Bonhoeffer

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“Changed hearts become changed homes, schools, workplaces, and, over time, changed cities.” 

 

This is our mission: To Be with Jesus and Become like Him for the sake of the world. 

 

3. A Church That Feels Like Home

 

“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”

Acts 2:42

 

“The gospel isn’t just a message for a Sunday sermon; it's good news that belongs at your kitchen table on a Tuesday night, at the lunchroom table at school, and at the boardroom table downtown.”

 

4. A Church That Lives Open-Handed Not Closed-Fisted

 

“Christian fellowship is Christian caring, and Christian caring is Christian sharing.” 

-John Stott

 

“Jesus then took the loaves, and when he had given thanks, he distributed them…”

John 6:11

 

Church Value: To live with open hands, not closed fists.

 

Looking Ahead: Our Vision for the Future

First, we aim to be a Beacon of Hope

Second, we want to be a Table of Belonging

Third, we want to be a launchpad for impact

 

“Love builds trust, and people rarely care what you know until they know you care.”

 

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith, and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast.”

Ephesians 2:8-9

 

“The tomb is still empty today, which means anything is possible!”​