First called ‘Christian’

Today’s passage sends the church further north to Antioch where the church grows and expands and followers of Jesus are first called Christians. This church will keep popping up in Acts as a major launch pad for the missionary movements of Paul. But the church begins because of the persecution that originated from Stephen’s stoning back in Acts 8. People from the island of Cyprus and all the way from Cyrene on the northern coast of Africa come to Antioch and begin proclaiming Jesus to either Greek Jews, or straight up Gentiles and the church takes off. The church in Antioch is both diverse, and incredibly focused on mission and spreading the good news of Jesus in their community and across the known world. It raises questions like, ‘What are some ways the church today can take on characteristics of the church in Antioch? Who are the Barnabas like people in the church? How might we take on a Barnabas role of encouragement and support within the church and on mission?’ Preacher: Jim de Witte Passage: Acts 11:19-30 Support the show