How can we apply Paul's example of follow-up in our church communities today? Setting the Scene in Acts 15:36 Acts 15:36: “After some time, Paul said to Barnabas, ‘Let us return and visit the brothers in every town where we proclaimed the word of the Lord to see how they are doing.’” Paul’s instinct after the Jerusalem Council is clear: revisit, check in, strengthen. Follow-up is not an afterthought; it is integral to disciple-making. Principles We Learn from Paul’s Follow-Up • Intentionality – He proposes a specific plan, not a vague hope (Acts 15:36). • Relational Care – “See how they are doing” shows genuine concern, echoing Acts 14:21-22, where he “strengthened the disciples.” • Team Ministry – Paul partners with Barnabas, later Silas (Acts 15:40), modeling shared responsibility. • Consistency – Follow-up threads through his letters (1 Thessalonians 3:1-5; Philippians 1:3-6). • Accountability – Revisiting churches allows correction and encouragement (Galatians 4:19; 2 Timothy 4:2). Practical Ways to Live This Out in Our Local Church 1. Regular Check-Ins • Elders or small-group leaders schedule periodic visits, calls, or messages. • Use a simple “Acts 15:36 list” of members and newcomers to contact monthly. 2. Discipleship Pairs and Triads • Pair mature believers with newer ones (2 Timothy 2:2). • Encourage meetings around Scripture and life application. 3. Follow-Up After Ministry Events • VBS, outreach nights, baptism services—plan immediate contact within 48 hours. • Share notes of encouragement, Scripture, and next-step opportunities. 4. Shepherding Through Written Encouragement • Send letters, texts, or emails mirroring Paul’s epistles (1 Corinthians 1:4-9). • Include personalized prayers and relevant verses. 5. Small-Group Culture of Care • Groups keep attendance logs and pray intentionally for absentees (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Rotate hosts so every home becomes a place of encouragement. 6. Digital Platforms Wisely Used • Private church apps or group chats for updates, testimonies, and needs. • Short video devotionals reinforcing Sunday teaching. Overcoming Common Obstacles • Busy Schedules – Designate specific “follow-up windows” in the church calendar; brief, consistent touches outweigh sporadic marathons. • Uneven Participation – Recruit and train a broad care team, spreading load (Ephesians 4:12). • Fear of Intrusion – Emphasize love and consent; follow-up flows from genuine relationship, not surveillance. • Hidden Needs – Create safe avenues for members to share burdens (Galatians 6:2). Encouraging Results of Faithful Follow-Up • Stronger Faith Roots – Believers are “established and encouraged” (1 Thessalonians 3:2). • Unity and Mutual Support – Shared life reduces isolation (Romans 1:11-12). • Protecting Against Drift – Gentle correction keeps doctrine sound (Titus 1:9). • Multiplication of Leaders – Invested disciples grow into disciplers (Acts 16:1-5). • Lasting Joy – Seeing others stand firm becomes a source of deep rejoicing (3 John 4). Closing Challenge Let Acts 15:36 move the church from event-centric ministry to a rhythm of ongoing care. By revisiting and investing, we echo Paul’s heart and see believers flourish for the glory of Christ. |
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