Grow Pete Kersker - Feb 13, 2026 Jesus' original disciples (students) received the Holy Spirit, preached in tongues (different languages) that Jesus is the Christ (Messiah, Anointed One), and baptized (immersed) thousands of people who believed them and repented (turned away from and left) of their sins. They, too, were forgiven and given the gift of the Holy Spirit. They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need (Acts 2:42-45 NIV). They prioritized learning from Jesus (the apostles' teaching), loving one another (fellowship), having meals together (meeting needs and communion), and letting God lead them (through their Scriptures, Jesus' teachings, and prayer). God's power was unleashed in them and through them so much that they were constantly amazed at what the LORD was doing. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved (Acts 2:46-47 NIV). Their priorities and resulting actions created an environment where people believe that Jesus is the Christ and followed Jesus as their Lord. They grew in numbers and in spiritual maturity. This is the picture of Jesus' first church. I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it (Matthew 16:18b NLT). Church, as we've already discovered, is simply a gathering or assembly of people. Christ's church gets together because we believe Jesus is the Christ and we want to follow him as Lord of our lives. They more we meet together, following Jesus as Christ and Lord, the more God causes us to grow. “For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them” (Matthew 18:20 NLT). Do you meet together with other Christ-followers to trust and follow Jesus? Do you see ways in your life where God has caused you to grow?