Acts 13 - 10.19.23
SCRIPTURE: Acts 13:1-3 NIV
“Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon, Lucius, Manaen and Saul. While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.”
OBSERVATION:
Antioch was the third largest city in the Roman Empire and was well-known as a center for pagan idolatry and licentious behavior. It was in this "cesspool" that God established His Church to be the base of missionary activity.
From Antioch, Paul and his helpers carried the Gospel throughout the then-known world. At least forty different cities are named in Acts.
APPLICATION:
Keys to a Powerful Ministry
As I’m reading about the church in Antioch a few key factors stand out to me today. This church is said to be in a well-known center for pagan idolatry and licentious behavior. In other words, it could be something very akin to Los Angeles-right where we live.
Yet, this was a Spiritually Strong and Effective Church-much like Desert Streams.
What were the components?
Prophets AND Teachers.
Worshiping and Fasting.
Praying.
We are getting ready to head into our 3-Day Prayer and Fasting -Ascent-10/25-10/27.
If you have never joined -this is a supernatural time to draw close to God in His word and prayer. We will have a kick-off service on Wednesday 10/25. Miracles breakout when People come before God to Worship, Seek His face and Pray.
I also learned a new phrase in my reading. “Aorist imperative”.
Barnabas and Paul Filled with the Spirit— Fulfilled Jesus’ command in Matthew 28:19 to “Make Disciples”.
This command from Jesus was spoken in an “aorist imperative” meaning it wasn’t just a command to GO.
It speaks of “an urgent need to Obey”.
“Then Jesus came to them and said,
“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.
Therefore- GO and make disciples..”
(Matthew 28:18a NIV)
The implication also has the meaning to make learners-
but not JUST learners who knew more about Christ—
learners who OBEYED what they learned
and thereby grew to become MORE like Christ.
“and teach them to obey everything I have commanded you.”
(Matthew 28:20a NIV)
PRAYER:
LORD Jesus,
FILL me With YOUR Heart-not-to be more knowledgeable-But to be More obedient. To be More like You Jesus. To reflect Your Love, Your mercy, Your Grace, and Your Truth. Teach me to Teach others to Obey You.
Give me great courage to speak out boldly today-
for whoever You send my way.
To urgently GO and make disciples.
In Jesus Name I pray.
Tina L Kudelka