In today’s sermon, we explored valuable lessons from the church in Antioch, as described in Acts 11 and 14. This church, notable for being the first place where disciples were called Christians, provides a model for us in several key areas.

1. Starting a Church: The Church of Antioch began when disciples, dispersed due to persecution in Jerusalem, started preaching and teaching in Antioch. This exemplifies how churches often start effectively when Christians, like swarming bees, move from an established church to initiate a new work. Church planting is most successful when groups of families undertake this new work, driven by their commitment to spreading the Gospel.

2. Being a Strong Church: Strength in a church is marked by members who are not just confessors of faith but true converts. This was evident in Antioch, where believers turned to the Lord in genuine repentance. A church consisting of members who have experienced godly sorrow and true repentance becomes strong and vibrant.

3. Being a Growing Church: The growth of the Antioch church was attributed to preaching about Lord Jesus. It highlights the importance of focusing on Jesus Christ in teachings, which leads to faithful discipleship. A church grows effectively when it preaches Jesus as Lord and relies on divine help, as seen in the growth and nature of God’s kingdom.

4. Generosity in Times of Crisis: The Antioch church also teaches us about being generous, especially during crises. When a famine struck Judea, the disciples in Antioch gave according to their ability to help the brethren there. This generous spirit is a hallmark of a compassionate and responsive church, ready to aid others in need.

The Church of Antioch sets an example in how to start, strengthen, grow, and exhibit generosity. As individuals and as a church, we should strive to emulate these qualities. The sermon closes by urging self-examination: Are we truly children of God, following the steps laid out in the Gospel? Are we living faithfully despite our human imperfections? It’s a call to action, inviting those who wish to commit or recommit their lives to Christ to do so.

As the sermon transitions into the song of invitation, it’s a time for reflection, decision-making, and potentially, a new beginning in one’s spiritual journey.