FEBRUARY 2022
APOSTLES' DOCTRINE
Author: District Evangelist K. Berry

According to the Collins dictionary, a doctrine is a set of principles or beliefs that is taught or advocated.   
 
The Apostles’ doctrine, according to Acts 2: 42 ...and they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine (teaching)....was not something the Apostles created on their own, as they simply shared what they had learned from Jesus. Throughout the years, the Apostles' doctrine remains consistent regardless of who the active Apostles are as they continue steadfastly in this teaching.

Jesus, the teacher in action
The example of Jesus as one who loved and included all was demonstrated by: 
  • speaking with the Samaritan woman at the well at a time when Jews did not associate with Samaritans (John 4: 4-42)
  • eating with the tax collectors and sinners (Matthew 9: 10-11)
  • receiving the children when the disciples rebuked them (Mark 10: 13-16)

Another aspect of His teaching is taking decisive action in:
  • fulfilling His mission
  • cleansing the temple of the activities that did not belong
  • reminding the people of its true purpose which is to be a house of prayer for all nations (Mark 11: 15-17) and
  • preparing and sending His Apostles

Putting the doctrine (teaching) in action
Out of the love of Christ in us and our love for Christ we seek to make a new and better space for everyone. Each of us has a role in making our congregations more inclusive and contribute to the unity of God’s people. We battle evil which seeks to divide based on our differences. When we help by removing elements of discrimination, the things that divide us, and work to prevent them in the future, then this is a step in the right direction toward a more blessed congregational life. Let us not be bound by our biases nor hindered by our hurt, or even our disappointments, but instead be strengthened by our Saviour.

 

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