Church Defined: HOW will We Do It?
What is Church? | Acts 2 | Chris Meade | February 1, 2026
In Ephesians 4 Paul teaches that unity does not happen automatically but must be pursued through humility, gentleness, and patience—kingdom values that run counter to the world’s divisive, tribal spirit. The sermon addressed how cultural, political, and personal differences often fracture the church, reminding believers that disagreement is inevitable, but Christlike conduct in disagreement is essential. Unity does not erase diversity; rather, God gives different gifts by grace so that every believer can contribute. Christ has designed the church as an “all-in” body where leaders equip the saints for works of service, and the church grows in maturity as each person does their part.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
1. Where did the Holy Spirit speak or challenge you through God’s Word? Were there any “ah-ah” moments?
2. Heart Check: Read Ephesians 4:1-6
o Humility: Chris’ message described humility as having a “right assessment of self” and staying curious rather than asserting your view. In what areas of your life (relationships, church, politics, family) do you find it hardest to practice humility—and why?
o Gentleness: Gentleness is strength under control, especially when emotions run high. Think of a recent conversation or disagreement—how did you respond? How might gentleness have changed the tone or outcome?
o Patience: Paul’s call to patience includes enduring frustration and bearing with difficult people without bitterness. Who is God asking you to be more patient with right now, and what is one Spirit-led step you can take toward them?
o Unity in Diversity: Mountainview values unity without uniformity—different gifts, perspectives, and backgrounds, but one body. How do you typically respond to people in the church who think, vote, or live differently than you? What would it look like to see them first as a brother or sister in Christ?
3. From Attender to Contributor: Read Ephesians 4:11-16
The sermon challenged us to move from “guest” to “family”—from enjoying “what is in the fridge” to “helping with the dishes”. Serving is more than receiving in community—it is taking an active role to make something happen.
o Where are you currently serving and what do you love about it? If not, what might be holding you back from taking a step into works of service? (https://www.mtnvw.org/volunteer/)
o If you are not serving, is there something that would hinder you from 1 hour a month per month/1 Sunday per month? Or during the week? If you are serving somewhere, would you be willing to take the “next step” and help lead there?
4. Read Each Part Doing Its Work:
o Paul says the body grows as each part does its work. What S.H.A.P.E or Spiritual gift, Ability, Passion, or Experience do you believe God has given you, and how could that be used to help build up the Church and advance God’s Kingdom at Mountainview?
Church Defined: Why Do We Do What We Do?
What is the Church? | Acts 2 | Chris Meade | January 25, 2026
We are being invited to examine the values we bring into life together and to allow God’s Word—not personal preferences, past experiences, or cultural expectations—to shape how we “do church.” In Acts 2, we see how the early church devoted themselves to biblical teaching, authentic fellowship, prayer, generosity, and shared life, forming a community centered on Jesus and empowered by the Holy Spirit. These practices were not just habits but reflections of deeply held values that sustained the church through growth, opposition, and cultural tension.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
1. Where did the Holy Spirit speak or challenge you through God’s Word? Were there any “ah-ah” moments?
2. Heart Check: Expectations & Values
When you think about “how church should be done,” what expectations or preferences do you bring with you? Where do you think those values came from (family, past churches, hurts, culture), and how might God be inviting you to surrender or reshape them?
3. Read Acts 2:42-47:
o Acts 2 says the early believers devoted themselves to certain practices. What does your calendar, energy, and attention reveal about what you are currently most devoted to?
o What would it look like to reorder one priority this week around Biblical truth, authentic community, prayer, or generosity/stewardship?
4. Read James 2:22-24
o We heard that Scripture is not only to be taught, but received and lived out. What helps you move from listening to obeying God’s Word—and what tends to get in the way? Can you share a recent example where God’s Word challenged or changed you?
o What would help you move from obeying God’s Word—to sharing and discipling from God’s word? Who are you pouring into? Who could you be?
5. Living Between Two Kingdoms
As followers of Jesus, we live in tension between the kingdom of God and the kingdom of the world.
o Where are you currently feeling and seeing that tension most clearly (relationships, workplace, family, culture)?
o How does being rooted in biblical truth, authentic community, and prayer help you stand firm with grace and courage?
o Who can you invite into community with you to encourage and build up?