Sermon Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: FWPSM

Acts 2:42-47 (ESV) 42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43 And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. 44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. 45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.

Sermon OutlineThere are a number of basic practices that form the core of the ordinary Christian life and they are essential for growth and being sustained.

1. The Context

2. v47 “and the Lord added…”

3. v47 “praising God”, v43 “awe… wonders… signs”

4. The Practices

5. v42, 47 “they devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers… the Lord added to their number…”

6. The purpose

7. v47 “those who were being saved”

Prayer of ConfessionOur mighty and awe inspiring God, you are the giver and sustainer of life. We admit that we have fallen short and need forgiveness. We have not devoted ourselves to the practices of your people, but have taken on habits and patterns of our own liking. We have neglected your Word. Our fellowship has been weak. Our prayers have been half hearted. We have not made proper use of your means of grace. We have not gone boldly or compassionately into the world as your servants. We struggle with spiritual weakness and its effects. For these, and all our sins, forgive us. You are a God of grace, so we ask for mercy and help. Revive us and sustain us. Amen.

Questions for Reflection

1. What do you think are the most basic or essential Christian practices or disciplines?
2. Why is it important to be intentional about Christian habits? What are helpful things you can do to improve consistency?
3. Why is it not enough to simply be disciplined? What can go wrong? What else is needed?
4. Which of the five practices (fellowship, Word, sacraments, prayer, mission) are most natural for you? Which are hardest or most easily neglected? Why?
5. In this season of life, which of the five practices are worth focusing on? What can you do to grow in a particular practice?
6. Are there other ways (other practices) that are helpful to your Christian development? Is there anything to explore?
7. How can you make sure you are seeking God in the use of these practices?