...grow through service of the poor...

The Church in Antioch

19 Now those who were scattered because of the persecution that took place over Stephen travelled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, and they spoke the word to no one except Jews. 20 But among them were some men of Cyprus and Cyrene who, on coming to Antioch, spoke to the Hellenists also, proclaiming the Lord Jesus. 21 The hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number became believers and turned to the Lord. 22 News of this came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. 23 When he came and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast devotion; 24 for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were brought to the Lord. 25 Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, 26 and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for an entire year they associated with the church and taught a great many people, and it was in Antioch that the disciples were first called ‘Christians’.

27 At that time prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch. 28 One of them named Agabus stood up and predicted by the Spirit that there would be a severe famine over all the world; and this took place during the reign of Claudius. 29 The disciples determined that according to their ability, each would send relief to the believers living in Judea; 30 this they did, sending it to the elders by Barnabas and Saul” Acts 11:19-30.

Dear friends, there can be no doubt that the formation of the Church in Antioch was of great significance to the expansion and mission of the church to the Gentiles throughout the world. The church grew so much that they followers of Christ were first called Christians! Now Luke tells us that the death of Stephen led to a huge wave of opposition to the church and the scattering of many Christians. But the Holy Spirit would have none of this, so Barnabas is inspired to go to Antioch and later bring Paul there for a year!

Notice that prophets, charismatic preachers, began to travel and move to Antioch, far from Jerusalem. Here a famine was predicted by Agabus, a prophet. That spurred on a collection to be sent to Judea to help alleviate the famine.

Dear friends, this story is inspiring. When we hear of people in need, especially famines and droughts, we have to act in support because we are Christians. This story gives us a challenge about how to act as Christians. We can’t just look at our own needs. We must help! 

Today, give thanks for the growing Christian Church, and ask God for that growth to take place again. Look for ways you and your church can support those who are struggling and suffering. Pray for such awareness and generosity.

Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the Living God, have mercy on me a sinner.