4 Phases of Growth - The Church in Antioch
Then the LORD answered me and said “Write the vision and make it plain on tablets, that he may run who reads it.” (Habakkuk 2:2)
- Our
- Our
- Our
a) Encounter His
14 And He said, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” 15 Then he said to Him, “If Your Presence does not go with us, do not bring us up from here. —Exodus 33:14-15
b) Connect with People.
c) Embrace God’s.
• In looking at the church in Antioch, the Lord wants us to get a glimpse of what our church family is called to as well.
“Now those who were scattered after the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to no one but the Jews only. But some of them were men from Cyprus and Cyrene, who, when they had come to Antioch, spoke to the Hellenists, preaching the Lord Jesus. And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number believed and turned to the Lord. Then news of these things came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent out Barnabas to go as far as Antioch. When he came and had seen the grace of God, he was glad, and encouraged them all that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord. For he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord. Then Barnabas departed for Tarsus to seek Saul. And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for a whole year they assembled with the church and taught a great many people. And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.”
—Acts 11:19-26NKJV
4 Phases / Waves of Growth in Antioch
1) There was the first wave when the believers arrived during the persecution. (Acts 11:19-21). A season of
2) There was a second wave when Barnabas arrived. (Acts 19:22-26a). A season of
3) There was a third wave when Barnabas brought Saul to Antioch. (Acts 11:26b) A season of
4) There was a fourth wave when Barnabas and Saul were sent out. (Acts 13:2-3) A season of
This beautiful vibrant community in Antioch is a picture, I believe, of what God has called us to be and do at our church here in Novato.
1) Unpacking Phase 1 - a season of evangelism. Acts 11:19-21.
But Jesus said, “I will build my church and the gates of hell will not prevail against it.” —Matthew 16:18
• The church was began to see that no one was beyond the
2) Unpacking Phase 2 - A season of encouragement. Acts 19:22-26a.
“When he got there and witnessed for himself God’s marvelous grace, he was enthused and overjoyed. He encouraged the believers to remain faithful and cling to the Lord with passionate hearts.” —Acts 11:23, TPT
• Barnabas wanted to
• Barnabas understood the power of
• Who are you going to be a
“I am sending her with this letter and ask that you shower her with your hospitality when she arrives. Embrace her with honor, as is fitting for one who belongs to the Lord and is set apart for him. So provide her whatever she may need, for she’s been a great leader and champion for many—I know, for she’s been that for even me!” —(Romans 16:2)TPT)
- Paul said that Phebe was a great leader and a champion for many. He was sending Phebe to minister in Rome as Barnabas had ministered in Antioch, to be a daughter of encouragement.
• A succorer - someone who gives
3) Unpacking Phase 3 - This was a season of equipping. Acts 11:26b.
• They were
• The believers were being
• There was a remarkable atmosphere of
“In the church at Antioch there were a number of prophets and teachers of the Word, including Barnabas, Simeon from Niger, Lucius the Libyan, Manean (the childhood companion of King Herod Antipas), and Saul.” —(Acts 13:1 )
for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ. —Ephesians 4:12
4) Unpacking Phase 4 – A season of sending. Acts 13:1-3.
2 As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” —Acts 13:2