The 9 Characteristics of a Great Church

December 23, 2024 Shahzaib Shahbaz No Comment 40 Views

The Fullness of Christ in the Church
“That he (Christ) might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.” (Ephesians 5:27)
“The name of the city from that day shall be, The Lord is there.” (Ezekiel 48:35)

The fullness of Christ in His Church is encapsulated by nine key characteristics. Together, these attributes represent the essence of a glorious, Christ-centered Church.

1. Great Prayer

The early Church exemplified steadfast and united prayer, resulting in divine intervention and boldness.

Acts 1:14: “These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication…”
Acts 4:31: “…and when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together…”
Acts 12:5: “…prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.”

2. Great Unity

Unity fosters strength and the manifestation of God’s blessings within the Church.

Acts 2:1: “They were all with one accord in one place.”
Psalm 133:1-3: “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity…”
John 17:11: “…that they may be one, as we are.”

3. Great Fellowship

True fellowship is rooted in shared faith and devotion to Christ.

Acts 2:42: “And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship…”
1 John 1:7: “…if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another…”

4. Great Power

The Church is empowered to witness, heal, and perform miracles through the Holy Spirit.

Acts 4:33: “And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus…”
1 Corinthians 1:18: “…unto us which are saved it is the power of God.”

5. Great Grace

God’s grace equips the Church to fulfill its mission and sustain its members.

Acts 4:33: “…and great grace was upon them all.”
Hebrews 4:16: “Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace…”

6. Great Giving

Generosity characterized the early Church, enabling the community to thrive.

Acts 4:34-37: “Neither was there any among them that lacked…”
Exodus 36:5-6: “…the people bring much more than enough for the service of the work…”

7. Great Fear

Reverence and awe for God inspire holiness and faithfulness.

Acts 5:11: “And great fear came upon all the church…”
Proverbs 9:10: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom…”

8. Great Conversion

The Church grows as people respond to the Gospel in faith.

Acts 2:41: “…the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.”
Acts 6:7: “…the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly…”

9. Great Persecution

Persecution refines the Church and advances the Gospel.

Acts 8:1: “And at that time there was a great persecution against the church…”
James 1:2-4: “…the trying of your faith worketh patience…”
1 Peter 4:12-14: “Think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you…”

Conclusion
These nine characteristics, drawn from Scripture, define a Church filled with the fullness of Christ. Together, they ensure that the Church remains a holy, vibrant, and powerful witness to the world. May the Lord be present in His Church always, fulfilling His purposes for His glory.