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The Church at Jerusalem, the first Christian community, was initially marked by unity and shared faith. Known as believers, disciples, and saints, they distinguished themselves from other local churches by their communal life and dependence on God. Over time, they developed a self-sufficient organization with a strong missionary spirit. The Jerusalem Conference demonstrated their maturity, as they were fully organized, open to discussion, and attentive to the Holy Spirit's guidance. They took on responsibility and carefully identified false teachings, solidifying their role in early Christianity.
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The Church at Jerusalem • Their earliest identifications: • Believers • Disciples • Saints • Brethren Later distinguished from other churches • By time of general persecution there were other local churches • From then on the church in Jerusalem was self-identified
Jerusalem Church in Infancy • They… • Worshiped God • Were together and had all things common • Were united in thought and practice • Depended on the Lord for strength • Were disciplined by the hand of God • Were active in proclaiming the word
Jerusalem Church Developing • They developed… • Self-sufficiency • Local organization • Missionary spirit
Jerusalem Church in Maturity • The Jerusalem Conference shows that they… • Were fully organized • Were willing to listen to both sides of an issue • Permitted the whole church to hear the matter • Were willing to heed the teaching of the Holy Spirit • Readily marked the false teachers • Accepted some responsibility
