Acts 13 God's Church Leadership Team

Welcome! In Acts 13 we are going to take some time to meet some people that God put together on the leadership team in Antioch. Precious Holy Spirit was building and structuring the church at Antioch. Luke tells us there were prophets and teachers: then he gives us a leadership list—Barnabas (a Levite Cyprus, prophet & teacher), Simeon Niger (likely African prophet & teacher), Lucius of Cyrene (North Africa prophet & teacher), Manaen (connected to Herod Antipas, had a privileged upbringing, became a leader in the church), and Saul (Tarsus, apostle 1 Cor. 15:9). Antioch, the third‑largest city in the Roman Empire, drew a wide variety of people—and its leadership reflected that diversity.   Joseph? I want to point out a few details about one man on that list that had a special gift that is often overlooked. His name is actually Joseph. But since you the name Joseph wasn't mentioned in that list let me explain everyone knew him as Barnabas. It was his nickname. the apostles nicknamed him Barnabas—'Son of Encouragement' (Acts 4:36–37). His generosity was unmistakable—he sold a field and brought every bit of the proceeds, placing it at the apostles' feet.   When Saul first came to Jerusalem,  he tried to join the followers of Jesus, but they were afraid of him and assumed his story wasn't true. But Barnabas stepped toward him when everyone else stepped back. He befriended Saul, brought him to the apostles, and explained what had happened on the road to Damascus and how boldly Saul had already preached the name of Jesus (Acts 9:27).   Later, in Acts 11:22, when a revival broke out among the Gentiles in Antioch, the apostles sent their trusted Barnabas to see whether this movement was truly from God. When he arrived, he immediately recognized the grace of God at work—and he encouraged the new believers to remain faithful to the Lord with all their hearts.   Acts 11:24 KJV  For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord.   Now let's look at Acts 13:2 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."   3 And after they had fasted and prayed, they laid their hands on them and sent them off.   4 So Barnabas and Saul, sent forth by the Holy Spirit, went down to Seleucia and sailed from there to Cyprus.  This was their first missionary journey.   Do you see what God is putting together here? He is putting together a team much like Paul describes in Ephesians 4: 11 And it was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers,   12  to equip the saints for works of ministry and to build up the body of Christ. 13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God, as we mature to the full measure of the stature of Christ.   Marks of a Healthy, Thriving, Fruitful Church (Acts 13–14) 1. Spiritual Practices Worship Fasting Prayer Deep, active use of the Word in preaching and teaching.   2. Holy Spirit Activity Holy Spirit–filled and Embraced the prophetic Signs and wonders Discernment   3. Ministry Strength & Leadership A diverse ministry team Appointed and trained local leaders Boldness Courage Perseverance Holy Spirit–led leadership   4. Gospel Mission & Outreach Jesus was preached Evangelistic Global mission (sending out Barnabas and Paul) Cross‑cultural ministry   5. Spiritual Warfare Confronting Elymas   6. Community Life & Fruit Generosity Testimony and celebration Discipleship   Father, thank you that you have given apostles, prophets, evangelist, pastor and teachers to the church to equip the saints for the work of ministry and build up the body of Christ. We see how beautifully it operated in the church at Antioch. Stir your church today to operate in the gifts that Jesus gave to the church. Open our eyes, our hearts. Stir our faith to believe you for more. They saw so many people saved as they used the gifts you gave them, help us not to explain your power away, but be filled to overflowing with Precious Holy Spirit, so lives are impacted by the love and power of God! In the Mighty Name of Jesus! Amen.   Want To Be Stronger?   Join me every Saturday for faith-filled encouragement, inspiring articles, and helpful resources delivered right to your inbox. I'd love to connect with you! Or subscribe to this podcast on your favorite Podcast Provider.