What to Expect (The FAQ)
If you’re wondering what a gathering at Assembly of the Acts looks like, this page answers the most common questions. Learn how our fellowship operates, why our meetings are interactive and Spirit-led, and what makes it different from a typical church service. We also share the four pillars that guide our fellowship and what you can expect when you visit for the first time.
Your First Visit
WHAT YOUR FIRST VISIT WILL FEEL LIKE
If you’ve been away from church for a while, or if you’ve been disappointed by church culture, visiting somewhere new can feel intimidating.
You’re welcome to simply come, listen, and observe if you wish. Participation is always voluntary.
We are simply believers gathering around Christ and His Word, encouraging one another in faith.
No spotlight.
No pressure.
No expectations placed on you.
Just come. You’ll be welcome.
Is this a typical church service
Not exactly. If you’re used to a 20-minute music set followed by a 40-minute monologue, this will feel very different. We don’t have a decorated altar we all look up to; we are the altar, we are the temple of God. We simply gather around the Word and talk with each other, not just at each other, to edify one another, allowing the Holy Spirit of God to lead and edify us (Malachi 3:16, 1 Corinthians 3:16-17, 6:19-20, 2 Corinthians 6:16).
Do I have to talk or participate?
Only if you want to. We value participation because we believe every believer has something to bring to the table: a verse, a prayer, a song, or a question (1 Corinthians 14:26, 1 Thessalonians 5:11). But if you just want to sit, listen, and "breathe" for a few weeks while you observe, that is perfectly okay. No one will put a microphone in your face.
Who is "in charge"?
We believe Jesus Christ is the only Head of the Church. While we have mature believers who provide oversight and direction (much like the elders in the New Testament), we don’t have a "celebrity pastor" culture. Our goal is to empower the family, not build a platform for a person (Ephesians 2:20-22, 4:15).
Will I be asked for money?
We don’t pass a plate. Any giving is done privately and willingly as worship unto God and used to support the work of the ministry and the needs of each other, just as the early church did. You aren't a "donor" here; you're a brother or sister (Acts 2:42-47; 4:34-35, 2 Corinthians 9:7)
Is there a dress code?
We believe that our body is the temple of God and it should glorify God in every thing, including in dressing. In 1Timothy 2:9, Paul talked about "women... dressing modestly and decently in appropriate clothes, not with elaborate hairstyles or by wearing gold, pearls, or expensive clothes," we believe the same is applicable to all, not only women. Whether that’s a suit or jeans, T-shirt, native attire, it doesn't matter to us, as long as Christ is glorified. (1 Corinthians 6:19-20, 1 Peter 3:3-5).
What about my children?
We love families. Because we believe in the "family" model of the early assembly, children are often part of our gathering. We don’t shuffle them off to a separate building to be entertained; we find ways to include them in the life of the fellowship (Matthew 19:14).
How we protect the simplicity of the Gospel
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No Stage. In the early assembly, fellowship happened as brethren sat together. No stage, title, or spotlight for the "anointed priests." The Bible says, "There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." He alone is the head (Galatians 3:28, Colossians 3:11, Ephesians 4:16). That doesn't mean we are not coordinated, we are, through teh recognition of leading brethren. But primarily, we are all brethren first.
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Every Voice Matters. We believe the Holy Spirit speaks through the entire Body, not just a person with a microphone. Our gatherings are interactive by design. Whether it’s a question, a testimony, or a word of encouragement, there is room for you to participate, and we don't pressure you on that. You aren't a spectator; you are part of the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 14:26, 1 Thessalonians 5:11).
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Deep Roots, Not Shallow Hype. We do not subscribe to "pep-talk" Christianity, materialism, motivational messages, or similar type of teachings under the "word of faith" movement. We prioritize depth in the Word of God over clever branding or emotional hype that psyches up the soul without nourishing the spirit. We study the Scriptures deeply, making space for questions, allowing scripture to interpret scripture (2 Timothy 2:15)
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Spirit-Led, Not Scripted. We value order, but we are not rigid. We are sensitive to the Holy Spirit to move, change and direct our meetings and lead us. We’d rather follow where God is going than stick to a 60-minute itinerary. Since we are gathered to Him, we give Him that honor so that He can minister to us and not make Him just a participant (Luke 24:49, Acts 2:1-4).
What to Bring
(And what to leave behind)
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A Bible (Any Version): We actually open them. If you prefer a physical one or a digital app, either is great. If you don't have one, we have plenty to share.
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Your Honest Questions: This isn't a "shushing" environment. If you’ve been holding onto hard questions or doubts, bring them. We believe the truth can handle the scrutiny.
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Your Weariness: If you’re just coming to sit in the back and heal without being "put to work," bring that. You don’t need to put on a mask here.
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A Participatory Heart: Since we don't have a "show" to watch, we rely on one another. Bring a verse that encouraged you, a prayer, or simply a willingness to listen and grow.
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Leave the "Religious Mask" at the Door: You don’t need to look, act, or speak a certain way to fit in. We’re interested in the real you, not the "church" version of you.
Are you coming this Sunday?
Let us know you're coming.
We'd love to welcome you by name.
Drop your info at this link and we'll save you a seat.
Assembly of the Acts Christian Fellowship
3128 Hudson Crossing, Unit G4
McKinney, Texas. 75070
If you want to know more about us, our story, and what we believe, Click Here