What personal steps can you take to support missions like in Acts 13:3? Setting the Scene Acts 13 opens with the church at Antioch sensing the Holy Spirit’s call to set apart Barnabas and Saul. Verse 3 captures the congregation’s response: “And after they had fasted and prayed, they laid their hands on them and sent them off.” (Acts 13:3) Observing the Pattern in Acts 13:3 • Fasting – a deliberate choice to forgo food to seek God’s direction • Praying – intercession that God would empower and guide the missionaries • Laying on of hands – public affirmation and identification with those being sent • Sending – releasing people and resources so the gospel can advance Personal Steps to Support Missions Today • Fast with purpose – Set aside regular times to fast for specific missionaries or unreached peoples (cf. Ezra 8:23). • Pray earnestly – “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest…” (Luke 10:2). – Intercede for open doors (Colossians 4:3) and bold words (Ephesians 6:18-20). • Affirm and commission – When your church sends workers, stand with them publicly, laying hands on them just as Antioch did. – Encourage their call instead of holding them back through fear or convenience. • Give sacrificially – “God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7) – Follow the Philippian model of ongoing partnership (Philippians 4:15-17). Budget missions first, not last. • Go, if God opens the door – Short-term trips can support long-term teams and may clarify a personal call (Isaiah 6:8). – Be ready to relocate permanently if the Spirit sends. • Encourage continually – Send notes, texts, and voice messages that quote Scripture and convey specific prayer. – Celebrate their victories, bear their burdens (Galatians 6:2). • Practice hospitality – Offer housing and meals when missionaries are stateside (3 John 6-8). – Open your table to international students or refugees in your city—mission begins at the doorstep. • Educate yourself and others – Read missionary biographies; follow reputable mission agencies. – Lead a small group study on God’s heart for the nations (Genesis 12:3; Revelation 7:9-10). • Mobilize the body – Champion a mission focus in youth ministry, women’s groups, men’s breakfasts. – Help organize prayer nights, fundraising events, and care teams for missionaries. Staying Consistent Over Time • Schedule reminders—calendar alerts for fasting days or missionary birthdays. • Partner with others—accountability strengthens perseverance (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). • Revisit your commitment—evaluate giving amounts, prayer lists, and possible future involvement annually. By mirroring the Antioch church’s fasting, praying, affirming, and sending, every believer can play a vital role in God’s global mission. |
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