In what ways can we "multiply greatly" spiritually in our communities? Verse Focus: Acts 6:7 “So the word of God continued to spread, and the number of disciples in Jerusalem grew rapidly, and a great many of the priests became obedient to the faith.” Setting the Scene • The early church faced internal tensions over neglected widows (Acts 6:1). • Spirit-filled servants were appointed to meet practical needs (vv. 2–6). • Unity and faithful service cleared the way for unstoppable gospel witness, and spiritual growth exploded. Key Observations from the Verse • “The word of God continued to spread” – Scripture was central, proclaimed openly and without compromise. • “The number of disciples … grew rapidly” – personal conversions led straight into intentional discipleship. • “Many of the priests became obedient” – even resistant groups were reached; the gospel penetrated cultural strongholds. Principles for Spiritual Multiplication • Center everything on God’s Word—teach it, read it, obey it. (Isaiah 55:11; Colossians 1:6) • Prioritize prayer and the Spirit’s power. (Acts 4:31) • Mobilize servant-leaders who meet tangible needs, freeing others to proclaim. • Commit to relational discipleship—believers personally raising new believers. (2 Timothy 2:2) • Maintain unity; unresolved conflict stifles growth. (Psalm 133:1) • Expect God to reach unlikely audiences; never limit His harvest. Practical Steps for Today • Schedule regular, Scripture-saturated gatherings—home groups, public readings, street outreaches. • Launch prayer cells that intercede specifically for neighborhood households by name. • Pair mature believers with newer ones for weekly one-to-one discipleship. • Train every member to share a concise testimony and a clear gospel presentation. • Identify community needs (food insecurity, tutoring, elderly care) and form service teams; good works open doors for good news. • Celebrate every conversion publicly, then integrate new believers into service immediately. • Equip youth and children early—future multiplication begins now. • Network with nearby congregations for joint evangelistic projects; visible unity amplifies witness. • Evaluate ministries quarterly: are they spreading the Word, making disciples, reaching outsiders? Adjust ruthlessly. Encouraging Scriptures • Matthew 28:19-20 – “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…” • Acts 19:20 – “So the word of the Lord powerfully prevailed and spread.” • 2 Timothy 2:2 – “And the things you have heard me say… entrust to faithful men who will be qualified to teach others as well.” • Colossians 1:6 – “…the gospel is bearing fruit and growing throughout the whole world…” • Isaiah 55:11 – “So My word that goes out from My mouth will not return to Me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.” As we anchor our communities in these truths and practices, God Himself causes the Word to spread and disciples to multiply greatly. |
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