Normal Church
Scroll to read a recap of Pastor Lee Cummings’ sermon from April 27, 2025
What Does Normal Christianity Really Look Like?
The answer might surprise you.
Normal Christianity isn’t bland or passive. It’s not about going through the motions or aligning with expectations. It’s vibrant. It’s powerful. It’s alive. It looks less like a weekly routine and more like the fire-filled church we read about in the Book of Acts.
Let’s step back into that moment—Acts 2, the birth of the Church. What happened there wasn’t a religious service. It was a divine eruption. The Holy Spirit fell like a rushing wind, flames danced on heads, and hearts burned with conviction. Peter, once shaky and ashamed, stood bold and unflinching.
One message.
Three thousand souls.
One day.
This wasn’t just good preaching—it was heaven colliding with earth. But the miracle didn’t stop at salvation. These new believers didn’t simply return to business as usual. Scripture says: “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer”
(Acts 2:42)
That rhythm of devotion—that sacred cadence—is the heartbeat of normal Christianity. It wasn’t polished. It wasn’t perfect. But it was pure. And it was powerful. The early church lived in awe. Miracles flowed. Needs were met. Hearts were glad and sincere.
This wasn’t religion—it was revival. Not an event, but a lifestyle.
Fast forward to today.
Have we drifted from that heartbeat? Have we accepted a diluted version of faith that no longer transforms lives? Normal Christianity was never meant to be tame. It was always meant to be supernatural.
It’s the Spirit moving.
It’s the gospel cutting through darkness.
It’s ordinary people carrying extraordinary power.
And yes—this is happening right now. Across Asia, Africa, and South America, millions are coming to Christ. Heaven is advancing. So why not here? Why not us? Have we become hospice centers for the spiritually sick instead of hospitals of healing—hubs of heaven’s power?
Let’s Rediscover What “Normal” Really Means
Here are eight hallmarks of normal Christianity worth reclaiming:
1. Bold Proclamation of the Gospel
Not watered down. Not sugarcoated. The kind of message that pierces hearts and compels response:“What must I do to be saved?”
2. Immediate, Joyful Baptism
In the early church, baptism followed belief without hesitation. It was the celebration of a life made new.
3. Devotion to God’s Word
Not occasional skimming, but daily feasting. Let the Word form us, convict us, and renew our minds.
4. Authentic Community
Real fellowship. Breaking bread. Sharing burdens. Celebrating joys. Life together—not alone.
5. A Culture of Prayer
Prayer that doesn’t wait for crisis. Prayer that undergirds every moment—unceasing, expectant, and bold.
6. Awe and Wonder
Have we lost our amazement? Let us regain the reverence of knowing: God is truly among us.
7. Radical Generosity
Not out of obligation, but out of love. Open hands. Open hearts. Meeting needs with joy.
8. A Hunger for Growth
They grew daily. Do we even expect growth anymore? Let’s believe again that salvation is still breaking in.
This kind of Christianity isn’t reserved for the spiritual elite. You don’t need to be a “Navy SEAL Christian” to live like this. You just need to be available—open to the Spirit, willing to be used, and ready to say yes.
Think of a heart out of rhythm. When it falters, doctors act fast—defibrillation, realignment, whatever it takes to bring it back. Perhaps the Church today needs the same—a holy shock back into rhythm.
The Beautiful Truth Is This:
Jesus is still building His Church. Nothing can stop Him.
Not darkness.
Not culture.
Not apathy.
Even now, He’s calling hearts home. He’s reviving His people.
Because normal Christianity was never meant to blend in. It was meant to stand out—with fire in our bones, love in our hands, and heaven in our eyes.
Tap to watch Pastor Lee Cummings’ full sermon on Youtube.
Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on this sermon:
Day 1: The Power of Pentecost
Reading: Acts 2:1–21
Devotional: The day of Pentecost marked a pivotal moment in church history. As we read about the Holy Spirit descending upon the disciples, we're reminded that God's power is still available to us today. Just as the early believers were transformed from fearful followers to bold witnesses, we too can experience a spiritual awakening. Reflect on areas in your life where you need the Holy Spirit's empowerment. How might your witness for Christ change if you were filled anew with His presence? Pray for a fresh outpouring of the Spirit in your life and church community.
Day 2: Repentance and New Life
Reading: Acts 2:37–41
Devotional: Peter's powerful sermon led thousands to repentance and new life in Christ. This reminds us that true transformation begins with acknowledging our need for God's forgiveness. Repentance isn't just feeling sorry; it's a complete change of direction. Consider areas in your life that may need realignment with God's will. Are there habits, attitudes, or relationships that are hindering your spiritual growth? Take time to confess these to God, asking for His forgiveness and strength to walk in newness of life. Remember, baptism symbolizes our death to sin and resurrection to new life in Christ. How can you live out this reality today?
Day 3: The Heartbeat of the Church
Reading: Acts 2:42–47
Devotional: The early church provides a beautiful picture of Christian community. They were devoted to teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer. This "heartbeat" of the church should still characterize our gatherings today. How closely does your church experience match this description? Are you personally committed to these core practices? Consider how you might deepen your engagement in each area. Perhaps you could start a small group Bible study, invite someone for a meal, or commit to regular prayer with fellow believers. Remember, when we align our hearts with God's design for the church, we create an environment where His presence can move powerfully.
Day 4: Signs and Wonders
Reading: Acts 3:1–10
Devotional: The healing of the lame man demonstrates that God's power extends beyond spiritual transformation to physical restoration. While we shouldn't seek miracles for their own sake, we should remain open to God working supernaturally in and through us. Have you become skeptical or cynical about God's ability to do the miraculous? Take time to pray for a renewed sense of awe and expectancy. Ask God to use you as a channel of His healing and hope to those around you. Remember, the greatest miracle is always a changed life—how has God transformed you, and how can you share that testimony with others?
Day 5: Boldness in the Face of Opposition
Reading: Acts 4:1–22
Devotional: Peter and John's courageous stand before the Sanhedrin reminds us that following Christ often means facing opposition. Their boldness came from being filled with the Holy Spirit and their unwavering conviction about Jesus. In a world that's increasingly hostile to Christian faith, how can we cultivate this kind of courage? Spend time meditating on the reality of Christ's resurrection and what it means for your life. Pray for opportunities to share your faith, and for the boldness to seize those moments. Remember, when we speak up for Jesus, He promises to give us the words we need (Luke 12:11–12). How might your witness impact someone's eternity today?