The Book of Acts: The Growing Church (Week 16)
1. It must stand __________ on _________.
[Peter said] 43 "All the prophets testify about him that, through his name, everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins." 44 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who were listening to the message. 45 All the circumcised believers who had come with Peter were amazed that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out, even on the Gentiles. 46 For they heard them speaking in other languages and praising God. Then Peter responded, 47 "Certainly no one can refuse water for baptizing these people! They have received the Holy Spirit just as we have." 48 He gave directions that they be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked him to stay for a few days. (Ac 10:43–48)
2. It must share God's ________ with ______________.
Now those who had been scattered by the persecution that took place at the time of Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, speaking the word to no one except Jews.
(Ac 11:19)
So those believers who were scattered went around proclaiming the gospel message. (Ac 8:4)
21 Then I went to the regions of Syria and Cilicia. ... 23 They heard only: 'The one who was once persecuting us is now preaching the faith that he once tried to destroy.' (Ga 1:21, 23)
20 But there were some men from Cyprus and Cyrene who came to Antioch and also began to speak to the Greeks, preaching the good news about the Lord Jesus. 21 The Lord's hand was with them, and a large number of people believed and turned to the Lord. (Ac 11:20–21)
In those days, as the number of disciples was increasing, a complaint arose from the Greek-speaking Jews against the Hebrew-speaking Jews, because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. (Ac 6:1)
Hellenists were Jews who accepted the Greek language and culture following the rule of Alexander the Great (356–323 BC).
A report about this reached the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to go on to Antioch. (Ac 11:22)
Joseph, who was called Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated "son of encouragement"), a Levite, a native of Cyprus. (Ac 4:36)
When he arrived and saw God's grace, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with devoted hearts. (Ac 11:23)
The Greek word χαίρω (chairō) means to be in a state of happiness and well-being, and can translated rejoice, be glad.
He was a good man who was full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a large number of people were added to the Lord. (Ac 11:24)
... a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit. (Ac 6:5b)
25 Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul. 26 When he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year they met with the church and taught a large number of people. It was in Antioch that the disciples were first called Christians. (Ac 11:25–26)
27 In those days some prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch. 28 One of them, named Agabus, stood up and indicated by the Spirit that there was going to be a severe famine all over the known world. This took place during the time of Claudius. 29 Each of the disciples, according to his ability, decided to send relief to the brothers who lived in Judea. 30 They did this, sending it to the elders by means of Barnabas and Saul. (Ac 11:27–30)
Points to Ponder
1. What is one thing that stood out to you from this week's message?
2. Whom do you know who is a Barnabas and why? Have you shared that observation with them?
3. Why is sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ so important to you? Is there someone in your life right now you need to share the gospel with?
4. Over the weeks and months ahead, please give some serious thought and prayer about our ministry plan, how we are going to be more focused on sharing the gospel in our new location.
