You can establish a church or ministry that will be more than a fad; it can last until Jesus comes. Principles and dynamics from "the first church" as described in the book of Acts are still relevant and highly effective today.

In our latest episode of the Pinnacle Leaders Podcast, called Bulletproofing Your Church or Ministry, our guest, Dr. Larry Asplund, director of program development for Christian Life School of Theology Global, will be sharing strategies for bulletproofing your church or ministry in 2021 and beyond.

At CLST, Dr. Asplund teaches the online course Building Churches That Last based on a book he co-wrote with author Dick Iverson. In this course, he unpacks key principles of building a strong ministry foundation according to Acts 2. The seeds that gave birth to the church in the beginning had within them the life, power and everything needed for the church to be the church.

The fourfold foundation provided in Acts 2:42 lays the groundwork for a flourishing congregation. Scripture says that "they devoted themselves to" (1) the apostles' teaching and leadership, (2) fellowship/shared life, (3) breaking bread (also considered corporate worship), and (4) prayers or intentional corporate prayer. Following these principles resulted in a daily lifestyle of Christian community that caused the Good News of the kingdom to be announced throughout the world by the end of the first generation.

The early church shared life together. As stated in the book of Hebrews, especially as the final days approach, we're going to need each other and need to be able to connect in personal, relational ways.

Understanding that we are flawed individuals in desperate need of each other is important for being able to endure conflict with the church. We were built for relationship, and there is danger in disconnecting ourselves from the body of Christ, leaving us more vulnerable to deception and false doctrine.

There is safely in having brothers and sisters who are supporting each other through prayer and godly community. We are on mission for the Lord and need each other to help accomplish kingdom purposes.

Subscribe to the Pinnacle Leaders Podcast with Dr. Langley to listen to this episode and others containing biblical wisdom on the areas of lordship, leadership and lifestyle.

Dr. Randal S. Langley is the president and CEO of Christian Life School of Theology Global, a world leader in theological and leadership education, providing online degree programs and customized Christian higher-education solutions for churches, ministries and other organizations. Dr. Langley is also president of the International Association of Bible Colleges and Seminaries and is a founding partner and certified life coach, teacher and trainer for the John C. Maxwell Team. His desire is to help people fulfill their ultimate purpose in life and achieve their God-given dreams.

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