"Seven Commitments Of The Church At Antioch"
Acts 11:19-26 "Bible Passage"
Antioch was Paul’s home church. The first worldwide missionary effort began there and has never ceased. Paul received much inspiration and support for Antioch. The Church at Antioch made seven commitments that proved to be favorable for the growth of the Kingdom of God.
I. A Strong Commitment To Worship.
A. Acts 13:2 - As they ministered unto the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, "Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.
B. We worship through.
1. Intense soul-searching prayer.
2. Singing in the Spirit.
3. Giving in the Spirit.
II. A Strong Commitment To Outreach.
A. Acts 11:20,21
B. Acts 13:3 - And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.
C. Acts 14:27 - And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how He had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles.
III. A Strong Commitment To Discipleship.
A. Inward growth strengthens the Christian’s testimony.
B. Inward growth produces numerical growth.
IV. A Strong Commitment To People.
A. Acts 11:29 - Then the disciples, every man according to his ability, determined to send relief unto the brethren which dwelt in Judaea.
B. James 2:15,16 - If a brother or sister be naked, and destiute of daily food, and one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doeth it profit?
V. A Strong Commitment To Growth.
A. Sent out Saul and Barnabas (Acts 13:3)
B. Sent out Mark and Silas (Acts 15:39,40)
VI. A Strong Commitment To The Possibility Of Change.
A. 1 Corinthians 9:22 - To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.
B. Philippians 4:11 - Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned,, in whatsoever state I am there with to be content.
VII. A Strong Commitment To Sacrifice And Faithfullness.
A. 1 Corinthians 4:2 - Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.
NIV - Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.
B. I know of now great church or person who has not sacrificed.
Conclusion:
We need more churches like Antioch. Churches that have committed people, grow in influence and number.
