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Antioch: Introduction
Scripture References: Acts 11:19-30, Acts 13:1-3, Matthew 28:18-20, Acts 2:42-47, Revelation 2
Intro:
- Introduction to a new series studying the church at Antioch.
- Invitation to commit for six weeks to understand the church's vision.
- Acknowledgment of Antioch's lesser-known status despite its significant impact.
- Antioch's role in the Gentile inclusion in the early church.
- Analogy of overlooked siblings to explain Antioch’s lack of focus.
Key Points:
- Antioch's Significance:
- A model church that transformed the world.
- Its success led to less attention compared to churches with issues.
- Luke's focus on Antioch due to its role in Gentile inclusion.
- Antioch's Context:
- Third-largest city in the Roman Empire: diverse, wealthy, and wicked.
- Multi-ethnic and multi-religious environment.
- Divided city: Greek and Syrian sides.
- Antioch's Impact:
- First place followers of Jesus were called "Christians."
- Possible location for Matthew's Gospel writing.
- Site of the meeting addressing Gentile inclusion.
- Antioch's Characteristics:
- Prophetic Leadership: Guided by prophetic words (Acts 11:27, 13:1-3).
- Evangelistic Boldness: Sharing faith despite persecution.
- Multi-Ethnic Unity: Breaking down social barriers.
- Generosity: Sacrificial giving to meet needs.
- Spiritual Disciplines: Practicing Jesus's lifestyle.
- Spirit-Empowered Ministry: Operating in spiritual gifts.
- Sending Church: Willing to release key leaders.
- Our Church's Vision:
- To be an "Antioch sending center" in our community.
- To embody the characteristics of the Antioch church.
- To reflect the diversity of our city.
Conclusion:
- Antioch's model provides a blueprint for our church.
- We are called to common faithfulness and unique assignments.
- God wants to work through us to impact our community.
Call to Action:
- Commit to the six-week series to learn from Antioch.
- Reflect on how we can embody Antioch's characteristics.
- Participate in communion, remembering Christ and the saints.
- Pray for prophetic direction for our church.
*Summaries and transcripts are generated using AI.
Please notify us if you find any errors.
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