First Century Principles…

            The record of the early church, as we see it in Scripture, lists four major focuses of their Christianity.  As a restoration people, it might help us to look at these focuses, determine which we are not as involved in as we could be, and alter our daily lives to better imitate the pattern…

1)      Koinonia (fellowship) – refers to a deep or intense association, communion of people, or fellowship.  It is not something broad like Del Rio, but is used for families and churches.  How deep and intense is your koinonia?

2)      Khrugma (proclamation) – the early church was universally involved in “speaking” the good news to those who need to hear it.  The word refers more to what a “town crier” might do, rather than soft, reserved conversation.  The key, however, is to proclaim… What endeavors have you made in this arena lately?

3)      Didach (teaching) – response to the proclamation is not enough to sustain a young Christian, especially in today’s world.  The early church was active in “continual teaching”, not simply learning something once, but continuing to learn it over and over as life progresses.  Each of us should be two-fold active here… continually teaching others, and continually allowing ourselves to be taught.

4)      Diakonia (service) – we derive the words “minister”, “deacon”, and “servant” all from this word.  Oddly enough service in the early church was never something that was focused on the server… completely on the one to be served.  What service are you offering the church, your family, baby Christians, and this community? 

Thank the Father for His Word, the pattern of proper focus…

May we have the strength to imitate…

Larry