MODEL CHRISTIANS - THE PEOPLE OF ACTS

5. ACTS 11.19-30, 13.1-3 :  A MODEL CHURCH

ANTIOCH (in the ancient Roman province of Syria). For many years in early church history, Antioch was the most important centre of Christianity (outside Jerusalem). It was the 3rd largest city in the world  - and it became the first and the foremost centre of Gentile Christianity.  This week we try to see ways in which, as a church, it can be an example to us.

I. HOW THE GOSPEL REACHES ANTIOCH   11. 19-21

- Antioch, the Ist Gentile Church

Preliminary question:  Do you know the location of Antioch?  In what modern country is its site?

· Who exactly was responsible for the founding of the church at Antioch?

- was its founding planned or spontaneous? How did it come about? Why do you suppose those who talked to Greeks did so? To whom do you find it easiest and most natural to talk about the gospel?

· In what way is the founding of the church at Antioch a great encouragement and example of the Lord overruling evil and tragedy for good?

- Can you cite any other examples of this? .......in the Bible? ......... in your experience?

II. HOW THE GOSPEL SPREAD FROM ANTIOCH 11.22-30,  13.1-3

- Antioch, the birthplace of modern mission

Talk about the church at Antioch:

• How was it built up spiritually? How important were Barnabas and Saul in this?
• What lessons for us?
• What builds up a church?
• Talk about the church at Antioch: the church’s leadership: their  number; their diversity; their activity (or gifting)
• What principles do you see here?
• the church’s worship:    What did it involve?
• How important is worship?
• the church’s openness to the Spirit’s voice:   When did they hear the Spirit speak?
• the  church’s willingness to send two of its best people:  How important were Saul and Barnabas to the church?

Any lessons?

• How did the church identify itself with Barnabas and Saul’s mission? What does ‘laying hands’ on someone represent?
• How can we helpfully practice it today?
• Why do you think it was Antioch that became ‘a sending church’ and ‘the birthplace of modern missions’?    Who exactly was responsible?

What makes a church ‘mission-minded’ and ‘mission-hearted’?

CONCLUDING THOUGHT

Think how Saul of Tarsus was responsible, both indirectly and directly, in:

• The founding of the church at Antioch?   7.51 – 8.1, 11.19-30
• The building up of the church?
• The mission of the church?

Isn’t the Lord’s sovereignty wonderful?