ACTS of the Apostles

Tuesday, May 24

ACTS of the Apostles

Learning How to be Daring and Dynamic

Read Acts 11:19-30

Focus Verses: Acts 11:25-26

“So Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. For a whole year they met with the church and taught a great many people. And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians.”

The founding of the church at Antioch was a significant event for the Christian church, in that it blended together in one body both Jews and Gentiles. AND it was there that the followers of Jesus were first called Christians and the church began to prosper. The name “Christian” was first applied to the disciples of Jesus Christ by pagans joining the Latin suffix -ian, which means “belonging to the party of” with the name of Christ. So, the suffix was tied to the name of Christ and thus we are referred to as Christians.

Barnabas was instrumental in this growth of the church and teaches us how to be an encourager to others. He was FULL OF ENCOURAGEMENT and lived up to his nickname (Barnabas), which means “son of encouragement” (Acts 4:36). We can learn so much from him. He was a righteous man who obeyed the Word and his character was a true reflection of that! He was effective in his ministry because he was filled with the Holy Spirt and encouraged others to have what he had or to grow in their faith and ministry.

Barnabas encouraged the new Gentile believers by rejoicing and worshipping with them and emphasizing dedication to the Lord. When Barnabas went to Antioch, he saw the grace of God and “he was glad and encouraged them to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts” (Acts 11:23). He also encouraged Paul to join him in Antioch so they could strengthen the believers in their faith.

From a small group of persecuted refugees, the church in Antioch saw large numbers of people come to Christ, come to be Christians. In fact, three times Luke underscores the large numbers (11:21, 24, 26). The reason for the growth was simple: “The hand of the Lord was with them” (11:21) and he sent disciples to strengthen their faith. He knew they needed ENCOURAGEMENT

Discipleship is vital to new believers. Is there someone in your life that taught you about God’s word? Are you in some kind of mentorship role, giving away what you have graciously received?

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank you for the encouragement we receive from others to stay strong in our faith and to help others in their faith journey. May we be obedient as you call us to encourage others to stay dedicated to you. Let the Holy Spirit work in us and through us so that we are bold and impactful in our ministry all according to your will. In your son’s name we pray. Amen