How might Paul's actions in Acts 18:22 inspire our own church involvement? Context of Acts 18:22 “When he landed at Caesarea, he went up and greeted the church, and then went down to Antioch.” (Acts 18:22) What Paul Actually Did - Landed at Caesarea after a strenuous ministry trip - Ascended to greet “the church” (likely Jerusalem) before anything else - Returned to Antioch, his sending congregation, closing the loop of accountability and fellowship Lessons for Our Church Involvement - Prioritize gathering: Paul’s first impulse after travel was to meet with believers. We should arrange our schedules around consistent church attendance (Hebrews 10:24–25). - Value the local body: He greeted “the church”—a specific, identifiable assembly. Commitment to a defined congregation guards us from isolated Christianity (1 Corinthians 12:18–27). - Maintain accountability: Returning to Antioch shows a willingness to report, receive counsel, and stay rooted in community (Acts 14:26–28). - Encourage and be encouraged: Greeting implies mutual blessing. Our presence uplifts others, and theirs refreshes us (Romans 1:11–12). - Recognize sending and supporting roles: Antioch had commissioned Paul (Acts 13:1–3). Churches still send, pray, give, and receive updates, joining in gospel work (Philippians 4:15–17). Practical Steps We Can Take - Schedule church first, allowing other plans to fit around corporate worship. - Join a membership class or covenant to make your commitment clear. - Share ministry updates or testimonies with your congregation—emails, brief reports, or small-group visits. - Invite returning missionaries or traveling members to speak, affirming that they are “part of us.” - Seek spiritual check-ins with elders or mature believers after extended absences. - Offer hospitality to newcomers and travelers, imitating Paul’s warmth. Scriptural Echoes - Psalm 122:1—“I rejoiced with those who said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the LORD.’” - 3 John 5–8—commendation for supporting traveling workers “in a manner worthy of God.” - Acts 20:7—Paul meeting with believers in Troas on the first day of the week. - 1 Thessalonians 3:1–2—Paul sends Timothy to strengthen and encourage the church, highlighting two-way care. Closing Encouragement Paul’s simple act of greeting the church shows that no ministry, travel, or personal agenda outranks faithful connection to the people of God. Let his example move us to deeper, more intentional involvement with our own congregations—for their good, our growth, and Christ’s glory. |
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