“Model Church”

Tuesday, April 14, 2020

Now in the church that was at Antioch there were certain prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away." (Acts 13:1-3)

The church at Antioch was flourishing. It is often thought that the church in Jerusalem was the model church. However, the church in Antioch of Syria also provides a great example of a lively, God pleasing church.

The city of Antioch of Syria was founded in 301 BC during the Grecian period. It was named after Antiochus. Scholars tell us it was a city that allowed for a free expression of religion. Thus, the atmosphere was ripe for the enlargement of the gospel. Luke records:  "But some of them were men from Cyprus and Cyrene, who, when they had come to Antioch, spoke to the Hellenists, preaching the Lord Jesus." (Acts 11:20)

The church in Antioch was blessed with several gifted leaders. Five are specifically noted here. While every local church should be guided by the message of the Holy Spirit, this seems to be strikingly so at Antioch. These gifted leaders were zealously ministering to the Lord. The result is recorded by Luke:  "And a great many people were added to the Lord." (Acts 11:24) "So it was that for a whole year they assembled with the church and taught a great many people. And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch." (Acts 11:26)

All of this activity would ultimately manifest itself in a work that would extend beyond Antioch. "Separate me" is from the Greek word which means to separate for a special purpose, and to a work for which they have been prepared. Paul and Barnabas would be sent to share the gospel of Christ with the Gentile world.  This separation took place after fasting, prayer, and laying on of hands. These were symbols of their solemn work. Their ministry was not self-serving. With a high and noble purpose, they parted to do the work facing even perils along the way.

Just what was the purpose of this work? That others may know the love of God. That they may believe and obey Christ for the remission of sin. That they might lead righteous lives for God. May we look to the great work at Antioch, with an intent to emulate these zealous disciples.

By George Slover

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