The Twelve Marks of an
Active Church
based on Acts 2:36-47
An active church is a church in which the Holy Spirit produces the following marks.
CORE VALUES AND AUTHORITY
1. A TRUE AND TESTED LEADERSHIP ACTS 2:37
Every church needs an ordained leader who has a proven track record. Moreover, this person should have gifts appropriate to the current needs of the congregation and a servant leader mentality.
2. A CONVERTED MEMBERSHIP AND THE PRESENCE OF THE SPIRIT ACTS 2:38-41
The church should be made up of born again believers who are filled with the Holy Spirit.
3. COMMITMENT TO THE WORD ACTS 2:42
The Bible should be collectively studied and actively used in the shaping the polices and activities of the congregation.
BODY LIFE PART 1
4. FELLOWSHIP ACTS 2:42
Everyone should be involved in some kind of small nurture group.
5. ORDINANCES ACTS 2:42
Baptism and the Lord's Supper should be clearly understood and practiced.
6. PRAYER ACTS 2:42
There should be regular prayer gatherings to support the life of the church.
BODY LIFE PART 2
7. THE SENSE OF GOD'S PRESENCE ACTS 2:43
The sense of awe comes when the power of God is experienced and miracles are performed and acknowledged.
8. A DEMONSTRATION OF THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT ACTS 2:43
This is evidenced when the gifts of the Holy Spirit are practiced within the congregation.
9. A UNIFIED CONGREGATION ACTS 2:44
Unity is evidenced by a sense of mutual caring and trust.
WORSHIP AND WITNESS
10. PUBLIC WORSHIP AND SMALL GROUPS NURTURE ACTS 2:46
Public worship is the usual Sunday morning service which serves as an entry point for visitors. Small groups nurture includes any spiritual formation activity within the church.
11. JOY IN THE HOLY SPIRIT ACTS 2:47
When the Holy Spirit is present in his fullness and there is a joyful attitude among within the congregation.
12. A GOOD WITNESS AND A GROWTH BY CONVERSION ACTS 2:47
When all of the above conditions
are present,
then church enjoys a good reputation in the community
and people
repent and come to the Lord.