Seven Habits of Effective Simple Churches (Acts 2:41-47)

Simple: Uncomplicated in nature, essence and expression

As simple churches, we are committed to a methodology for doing and being church that seeks to be uncomplicated in nature, essence and expression. We believe the church of Jesus Christ in all her ways share similar values, but not always similar outward expressions. And for us, those expressions are far too often barriers to those who most need to experience the presence of Jesus Christ. Simple churches come in all shapes, sizes, cultures and theological distinctives. But we do seem to share a common thread: A very simple methodology of what it means to follow Christ as a community of believers. We therefore endeavor to ask and be led by the right questions answers. Below are seven common questions and practices. They revolve around these verses found in Acts 2:41- 47:

Simple: Uncomplicated in nature, essence and expression

As simple churches, we are committed to a methodology for doing and being church that seeks to be uncomplicated in nature, essence and expression. We believe the church of Jesus Christ in all her ways share similar values, but not always similar outward expressions. And for us, those expressions are far too often barriers to those who most need to experience the presence of Jesus Christ. Simple churches come in all shapes, sizes, cultures and theological distinctives. But we do seem to share a common thread: A very simple methodology of what it means to follow Christ as a community of believers. We therefore endeavor to ask and be led by the right questions answers. Below are seven common questions and practices. They revolve around these verses found in Acts 2:41- 47:

Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day. They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.

1. SIMPLE MISSION: What do we see as our prime directive from the King and how do we accomplish this?

We make disciples! We do this by being incarnational in our mission. We carry the life of Jesus in cracked vessels so that the power and beauty we experience and demonstrate is of God and not ourselves.

2. SIMPLE LEADERSHIP: Who are those among us whom the Spirit has touched to help us reach our full potential in the things of Christ?

We recognize those among us who are called by the Spirit to be the spiritual moms and dads of the community. We deeply honor the work of the Spirit of God in those humble servants… Those who serve are those identified as having the spiritual gift of leadership, those who are able to share leadership. Simple leadership may be rotational or situational leadership-not just taking turns, but a community recognition of God’s calling and expression of that calling with a spirit of humility and the ability to listen in each circumstance.

3. SIMPLE TEACHING: How do we receive, obey and share God’s story as a community?

We learn as a community. Discovering the living Word through the study of scriptures, through life teachings from one another, from our struggles in this life and from spiritually gifted ones among the body of Christ. Obedience to the Word of God is essential in learning what the Bible means.

4. SIMPLE FELLOWSHIP: In what ways are we a family? What does this look like during the week?

We are building community and family life-practicing faith in the daily relationships and opportunities and challenges of life together as they arise, so that all among and around us are encouraged to become whole.

5. SIMPLE WORSHIP: How does a whole-life love for Jesus demonstrate itself when we gather?

We acknowledge Jesus by listening to Him and talking to Him, declaring who He is and what He has done.

6. SIMPLE GIVING: How do we generously share our resources with one another and with others who are serving the King?

We seek to practice wise and generous giving in ways that promote the kingdom, build relationships and reveal the heart of Jesus. We intentionally care for the real needs of our family members and strangers.

7. SIMPLE SERVING: How has the “neighborhood” benefited from the presence of Christ among us?

We are a people zealous for good works to which the Father has called us. Therefore we strive to see that every part of the body of Christ working together performs the work of Jesus on earth, especially in saving what is lost.

By Don Graves and Ron King

Simple Church Network, Greater Philadelphia

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