What was the essential element that made the first century church so successful?
Vance Havner said, The early church had none of the things that we think are so essential for success todaybuildings, money, political influence, social statusand yet the church won multitudes to Christ and saw many churches established throughout the Roman world. Why? Because the church had the power of the Holy Spirit energizing its ministry. They were a people who were ignited by the Spirit of God. (Warren W. Wiersbe, Be Dynamic, Victor Press, 1987, pg. 23.) Jesus gave his disciples the Holy Spirit after his resurrection. However, they were to wait in Jerusalem for the power of the Holy Spirit. John 20:21-23 21 Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” 22 And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. 23 If you forgive anyone his sins, they are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.” NIV On Pentecost the miraculous power of the Holy Spirit jump-started their faith. It is evident that the awesome p
