Finding Purpose

Speaker: Michael Swearingen

Main Text: Acts 6:1-7

Description: The early church continued to grow even when it faced opposition, suffering, internal disagreements, and practical challenges. In Acts 5 and 6, we see believers refusing to let fear or reputation stop them from following Jesus, while also learning how to solve problems and share responsibility as the church grew. When a disagreement arose over the care of widows, the apostles equipped other Spirit-filled and wise believers to serve, allowing the church to continue growing and spreading the message about Jesus.

The church is not made up of professional Christians and passive consumers. Ephesians 4 teaches that church leaders are called to equip God’s people to do the work of ministry, and Scripture describes the church as one body made up of many different parts. God has uniquely created every person with gifts, purpose, and a place to contribute. Whether through the weekend gathering, a small group, or serving on a team, following Jesus means discovering how God has uniquely equipped you and using those gifts to build up the church and serve others.

Topics: Church 101, Serving in the Church, Spiritual Gifts, Finding Your Purpose, Christian Service, How to Serve at Church, Getting Involved in Church, Following Jesus, Early Church, Acts 5, Acts 6, Ephesians 4, 1 Corinthians 12, Christian Community, Church Leadership, Serving Others, Ministry, Purpose, Sarasota Church, Christian Church in Sarasota