What can we learn from Paul and Barnabas's commitment to the Lord's work? The Setting in Antioch “Paul and Barnabas stayed in Antioch, where they and many others taught and preached the word of the Lord.” (Acts 15:35) Fresh from the Jerusalem Council, these two servants returned to the church that had first sent them out (Acts 13:1-3). Rather than slowing down after a major trip and a weighty doctrinal debate, they dug back in—right where believers needed solid grounding. A Portrait of Steadfast Ministry • They remained — commitment expressed in staying power. (“Be steadfast, immovable…” 1 Corinthians 15:58) • They taught — patiently instructing believers. (Matthew 28:20; Acts 11:26) • They preached — boldly proclaiming to the lost. (2 Timothy 4:2) • They worked together — ministry is often a team effort, not a solo act. (“Two are better than one…” Ecclesiastes 4:9-10) Key Lessons We Can Embrace 1. Perseverance after conflict • The circumcision dispute could have drained them, yet they pressed on. (Galatians 6:9) 2. Commitment to the local church • Returning to Antioch shows the value of home‐base accountability and support. (Hebrews 10:24-25) 3. Balanced ministry focus • Teaching builds depth; preaching spreads breadth. We need both. 4. Partnership multiplies impact • Paul’s gifting and Barnabas’s encouragement (Acts 4:36) complemented one another. 5. Centrality of Scripture • “The word of the Lord” was their message—unchanged and authoritative. (Psalm 119:160) Scripture Connections • Acts 14:27 — Reporting back to the church keeps God’s people unified. • Acts 9:15-16 — Paul’s calling to bear Christ’s name fuels his persistence. • 1 Thessalonians 2:9-12 — A glimpse of Paul’s tireless, nurturing heart. • 2 Timothy 4:7 — Finishing the race flows from daily faithfulness like we see in Antioch. Practical Takeaways for the Week • Schedule an hour to teach or disciple someone newer in the faith. • Share the gospel with at least one unbeliever, pairing proclamation with everyday conversation. • Reconnect with your church’s mission team or small group—stay planted where God has placed you. • Team up: invite a trusted believer to join you in the work, mirroring Paul and Barnabas’s partnership. • Keep Scripture central—let every plan, conversation, and lesson flow from the “word of the Lord.” |
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