Week 24: The Church in Antioch
Verses Covered: Acts 11:19-30
The Gospel Reaches Antioch
- After the persecution in Jerusalem, some believers traveled to Antioch and began preaching to Greeks as well as Jews.
- The hand of the Lord was with them, and many people came to believe in Jesus.
Barnabas Sent to Antioch
- The church in Jerusalem sent Barnabas to Antioch to encourage the new believers.
- He was glad to see their faith and encouraged them to remain true to the Lord.
The Disciples Called Christians
- In Antioch, the believers were first called Christians, marking the start of a new identity for followers of Jesus.
Life Applications:
- Be bold in sharing your faith with everyone, just as the believers in Antioch did.
- Encourage others in their walk with God, helping them stay faithful to Jesus.
- Know that your identity as a Christian should shape your actions and attitudes.
Discussion Questions:
- Why was Antioch such an important city for the early church?
- How can we encourage new believers in their faith today?
- What does it mean to live as a Christian, and how should that impact our daily lives?