spreading the gospel in the early days of Christianity

Paul and Barnabas in Lystra, by Adriaen van Stalbemt, 1580–1662.

Acts 13–14

Calling from the to be in the service of God in His church come from His servants who are hold authority. When these leaders are led by inspiration, they use much prayer and fasting to gain this revelation. Over the years, I've served in many ways. When I have received a calling, I never accept until I am sure it is inspired. Sometimes that comes with a burning testimony at the time of calling. Sometimes it takes a little prayer and fasting on my part to gain a witness. Certainly, individuals are called to do work outside the church and to be anxiously engaged in good works. However, the calling of Saul and Barnabas in Acts shows about how Church members are called to serve in God's church today.

In Antioch, the leaders of the synagog invited Paul to speak in the Shabbot service. Paul taught the history and message of Jesus' mission. Afterward, the Gentiles in Antioch asked the missionaries, Paul and Barnabus, to share their message with them. These Gentiles believed and glorified God. Filled with envy, the Jews persecuted Paul and Barnabas.

In Lystra, Paul healed a crippled man. The people thought they were, Jupiter and Mercurius, false gods the Lystrians worshiped. Understandably upset, Paul and Barnabas turned the attention away from themselves and back unto God.


In each city Paul and Barnabas visited, they found people eager to accept the gospel, but they also found people who persecuted them and stirred up others against the Church. Paul and Barnabas returned to each of the cities to direct the work of the church even though it was dangerous for them. Without instruction and encouragement,  the new members of these branches might not have held to their new-found faith. To feel part of things in a new situation, people need fellowship and to feel needed. Although we don't belong to the body of Christ as a social club, we can see through studying the early day of the church that fellowshipping among other saints is important. They banded together to show Christian love, bear witness, and teach the gospel to each other and anyone who wanted to join with them.

As Christians, we have and will experience persecution. We need each other, since together we can bolster the courage of the others. We can build and strengthen resolves and testimony as we meet, learn, and instruct each other.