Between Spirit and Strategy: A Biblical Theology of Church Growth According to Acts 2:42–47

Abstract

This article critically examines contemporary models of church growth influenced by business strategies, contrasting them with the biblical paradigm presented in Acts 2:42-47. The primary objective is to demonstrate that the authentic growth of the early church resulted from the sovereign action of the Holy Spirit, manifested through four fundamental dimensions: (1) apostolic teaching as doctrinal foundation, (2) radical fellowship (koinonia) integrating spiritual and material aspects, (3) liturgical celebration of the breaking of bread, and (4) prayer as communal practice. Using a methodology combining exegetical analysis of the Greek text of Acts 2:42-47 with a critical theological evaluation in dialogue with contemporary primary and secondary sources, the study reveals how this model contrasts with current pragmatic approaches prioritizing quantitative indicators (baptisms, attendance, economic resources). The findings emphasize that growth in Acts 2 was the natural consequence of a community embodying Kingdom values, not the product of human strategies. As pastoral implications, the study proposes reorienting contemporary ecclesial practice toward: (a) understanding success based on Gospel faithfulness rather than numerical results, (b) discipleship as a comprehensive formation process, and (c) integration of worship, fellowship, and social witness.