GROWING THROUGH GROWING PAINS

But as the believers rapidly multiplied, there were rumblings of discontent.   Acts 6:1 (NLT2)

So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.       Acts 6:7 (NIV)

HEALTHY COMMUNITIES ALLOW THEIR POTENTIAL TO BECOME THE SOLUTION

So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.       Acts 6:7 (NIV)

It was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. We will speak truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.     Ephesians 4:11-16 (NIV & NLT2)

Now Stephen, a man full of God's grace and power, did great wonders and miraculous signs among the people.       Acts 6:8 (NIV)

HEALTHY COMMUNITIES CHOOSE GRACE & TRUTH TO RESPOND TO OPPOSITION 

Opposition arose, however, from members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen (as it was called) -- Jews of Cyrene and Alexandria as well as the provinces of Cilicia and Asia. These men began to argue with Stephen, but they could not stand up against his wisdom or the Spirit by whom he spoke. Acts 6:9-10 (NIV)

In your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.But do this with gentleness and respect.       1 Peter 3:15 (NIV)

Be wise in the way you act towards outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.     Colossians 4:5-6 (NIV)

HEALTHY COMMUNITIES REMAIN FAITHFUL IN THE MIDST OF UNCERTAINTY

And Saul was there, giving approval to his death. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church at Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. Godly men buried Stephen and mourned deeply for him. But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off men and women and put them in prison. Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went.   Acts 8:1-4 (NIV)

But you will receieve power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.       Acts 1:8 (NIV)