Podcasts about Antioch

Church Planting, Discipleship & the Grace to Be Holy | Ken Fish, Jimmy Seibert & Joel Taylor Ken Fish and Joel Taylor welcome back Jimmy Seibert—leader of Antioch Waco and the Antioch Movement, one of the most effective church-planting movements in the Western world, and a speaker at the upcoming Luminosity conference (Nashville, Oct 1–3, 2026). Register: https://kingdomluminosity.org/Jimmy shares how the movement grew out of a full surrender as a young believer and a conviction that the local church is meant to both house and multiply the glory of God. The conversation ranges across world evangelization, why believers buy the lie that they aren't needed, and how partnering with God to reach every people group helps prepare the way for Christ's return. At its heart, it's about intimacy with God as the source of everything—"it takes God to do the work of God"—and why consecration and holiness are themselves a grace: power over sin, not just forgiveness of it.In this conversation:How the Antioch church-planting movement grew out of full surrender"A church for every 1,000 people"—and why the US is underservedWhy the enemy's great lie is that you're not neededPartnering with God to "hasten" Christ's return (Matthew 24:14)Reaching the next generation through heart, home, and shared missionDiscipleship that empowers rather than creates dependenceMaturity as taking responsibility for your own walk with GodConsecration and holiness as grace—power over sin, not just forgivenessWhy you can't set others free until you've been set freeRegister for Luminosity

What is the full armor of God and how does it prepare us for life? Paul gives us details about the armor of God in Ephesians 6. Pastor Derrick Lynch continues our series, “Ephesians: One in Christ,” preaching from Ephesians 6:10-20. Notes in this sermon: Stand in God's strength Stand against God's enemy Stand with God's armor Visit www.bluevalleychurch.org for more information about Blue Valley Church in Overland Park and Olathe, Kansas.

The church in Antioch was something else. Antioch was the third largest and most influential city in the Roman Empire, about 300 miles north of Jerusalem. While the first converts there were Jewish, the church exploded when the Gospel was proclaimed to Gentiles. This church became the model for all the churches planted in Acts. They were active on mission in their city, cared for their hurting brothers and sisters in Judea, and sent their best leaders to the nations on mission. We desire to be a church in the mold of Antioch. So to stay on mission we have a set of eight core values that has shaped our church for 20 years and we hope will shape our church for decades more. These are the pillars that support our vision and the tools we use to evaluate everything we do here. We hope these values will help us lift our chin to see our neighbors in Eureka/Pacific while also shaping us to be a church in getting the Gospel to all nations.

With season 1 and 2 complete we move into Acts: Season 3. The narrative shifts to Antioch and the focus is on Paul - previously called Saul - as he shares the gospel in Gentile areas. ___ At the end of season three we wrap up Acts 19 with the impact of the Gospel affecting the economy in Ephesus. The way of Ephesus is threatened and those making the most money off of her worship of Artemis are in fear of losing their abundance.

Verse by verse study through the book of Acts Chapter Thirteen and Verse Fourteen

Join Paul and Barnabas as they embark on a bold journey to unite Jews and Gentiles under Christ, fulfilling the Great Commission amidst persecution and trials.In this episode, Paul and Barnabas set out on their mission to spread the gospel, facing resistance and hardships but remaining steadfast in their calling. As they witness the growing movement of believers in Antioch, they prepare for greater challenges and an emerging role as leaders of the early church.Today's Bible verse is Matthew 28:19, from the King James Version.Download the ⁠Pray.com⁠ app for more Christian content including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.ories.Pray.com is the digital destination for faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Not Only Your Words, But Your Mannerisms, Tone And Attitude Also Does. Be Careful What You Are Saying Acts 15:30-35 30So the men were sent off and went down to Antioch, where they gathered the church together and delivered the letter. 31The people read it and were glad for its encouraging message. 32Judas and Silas, who themselves were prophets, said much to encourage and strengthen the believers. 33After spending some time there, they were sent off by the believers with the blessing of peace to return to those who had sent them. [34] d 35But Paul and Barnabas remained in Antioch, where they and many others taught and preached the word of the Lord.

The Bible teaches us that our enemy is defeated by the blood of the Lamb and by our testimony. Our personal stories of walking with Jesus serve as powerful reminders of His faithfulness, bring Him glory, and can help set others free. This Testimony Sunday, we heard three remarkable stories of God's rescue and goodness in the lives of three greatly loved family members here at Antioch.

Be Careful When You Share The Truth, Your Tone Or Attitude Can Close The Ears Who Néed To Hear Acts 15:22-29 22Then the apostles and elders, with the whole church, decided to choose some of their own men and send them to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas. They chose Judas (called Barsabbas) and Silas, men who were leaders among the believers. 23With them they sent the following letter: The apostles and elders, your brothers, To the Gentile believers in Antioch, Syria and Cilicia: Greetings. 24We have heard that some went out from us without our authorization and disturbed you, troubling your minds by what they said. 25So we all agreed to choose some men and send them to you with our dear friends Barnabas and Paul— 26men who have risked their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. 27Therefore we are sending Judas and Silas to confirm by word of mouth what we are writing. 28It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us not to burden you with anything beyond the following requirements: 29You are to abstain from food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals and from sexual immorality. You will do well to avoid these things. Farewell.

Season 2, Episode 138In this episode, Michael and Zach continue their series through Galatians by examining one of the most striking confrontations in the New Testament: Paul's public rebuke of Peter in Antioch. Working through Galatians 2:11–21, they explore why Peter's withdrawal from Gentile believers was more than a social mistake—it communicated a theology his own beliefs denied. The discussion traces Paul's argument from table fellowship to justification, showing why requiring Jewish distinctions for full fellowship ultimately undermines the sufficiency of Christ. Along the way, Michael and Zach examine what Paul means by “works of the Law,” why even Jews who possessed the Law still needed justification by faith, what it means to die to the Law, and how “I have been crucified with Christ” explains the believer's new life in Him. The episode culminates in Paul's stark conclusion: if righteousness could come through the Law, then Christ died needlessly.Find our videocast here: https://youtu.be/D-J18uhCIN0Merch here: https://take-2-podcast.printify.me/Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/reakt-music/deep-stone⁠License code: 2QZOZ2YHZ5UTE7C8Find more Take 2 Theology content at http://www.take2theology.com

The Law Cannot Save And Is Not A Prerequisite For Salvation Acts 15:1 1Certain people came down from Judea to Antioch and were teaching the believers: “Unless you are circumcised, according to the custom taught by Moses, you cannot be saved.”

Years ago, the leaders of Seashore Church received a word that it would be a place that would be like Antioch. Clayton Ritter shares what it means to be a disciple that disciples others.

No Matter How Uncomfortable Or Inconvenient, Support His Kingdom By Supporting Others Acts 14:21-25 21They preached the gospel in that city and won a large number of disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, 22strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. “We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said. 23Paul and Barnabas appointed elders a for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their trust. 24After going through Pisidia, they came into Pamphylia, 25and when they had preached the word in Perga, they went down to Attalia.

Always Give Glory To God And Point To Him For Others To See Acts 14:14-20 14But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard of this, they tore their clothes and rushed out into the crowd, shouting: 15“Friends, why are you doing this? We too are only human, like you. We are bringing you good news, telling you to turn from these worthless things to the living God, who made the heavens and the earth and the sea and everything in them. 16In the past, he let all nations go their own way. 17Yet he has not left himself without testimony: He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy.” 18Even with these words, they had difficulty keeping the crowd from sacrificing to them. 19Then some Jews came from Antioch and Iconium and won the crowd over. They stoned Paul and dragged him outside the city, thinking he was dead. 20But after the disciples had gathered around him, he got up and went back into the city. The next day he and Barnabas left for Derbe.

Today’s Topics: 1, 2, 3, 4) William discusses a few of the magnificent martyrs of the Early Church, including Apostle, Saint Bartholomew, Saint Stephen, Saint Polycarp, and Saint Ignatius of Antioch

What does the Bible say about work? The Apostle Paul has a clear message about workplace relationships in Ephesians 6. Pastor Derrick Lynch continues our series, “Ephesians: One in Christ,” preaching from Ephesians 6:5-9. Notes in this sermon: The Gospel Transforms the way we work because Christ is our True Master. Visit www.bluevalleychurch.org for more information about Blue Valley Church in Overland Park and Olathe, Kansas.

With season 1 and 2 complete we move into Acts: Season 3. The narrative shifts to Antioch and the focus is on Paul - previously called Saul - as he shares the gospel in Gentile areas. ___ As ministry progresses in Ephesus, people start to recognize the power of God on Paul's life and want to be involved. Some try to impersonate - and get embarrassed. And other choose to identify their imperfections - and get blessed.

Pastor Jeremiah Gabbard | Actst 11:19-26 This sermon defines the characteristics of a genuine believer by examining the early church in Antioch as recorded in Acts 11. It argues that a Christ-like Christian must possess a heart grounded in devotion to the Lord, doctrine anchored in biblical truth rather than situational ethics, and a life that visibly reflects Christ to the world. The speaker warns against emotionalism and entertainment-driven worship, emphasizing that sound teaching and faithful obedience are essential for spiritual stability. By contrasting true discipleship with superficial association, the message calls believers to examine their own commitment and ensure their lives serve as evidence of their faith. Ultimately, the goal is for Christians to be conduits for God's work rather than obstacles in a corrupt world.

Pastor Jeremiah Gabbard | Actst 11:19-26 This sermon defines the characteristics of a genuine believer by examining the early church in Antioch as recorded in Acts 11. It argues that a Christ-like Christian must possess a heart grounded in devotion to the Lord, doctrine anchored in biblical truth rather than situational ethics, and a life that visibly reflects Christ to the world. The speaker warns against emotionalism and entertainment-driven worship, emphasizing that sound teaching and faithful obedience are essential for spiritual stability. By contrasting true discipleship with superficial association, the message calls believers to examine their own commitment and ensure their lives serve as evidence of their faith. Ultimately, the goal is for Christians to be conduits for God's work rather than obstacles in a corrupt world.

Chapters 1-12 the focus has been on the Jerusalem believers, Apostle Peter Chapter 13 and onward will be focused on the Apostle Paul (also known as Saul) and the church at Antioch. In the book of Acts Paul travels 12,000 miles (20,000 kilometers) to bring the message of Jesus to people who had never heard of Him.   Acts 13   THEN + NOW   Seek and heed the Spirit. In the first 3 verses of this chapter we see them praying, fasting and doing as the Holy Spirit leads.Seeking the Spirit's guidance and then heeding it is an important truth for us today individually and as the Body of Christ.  Acts 13:1-3 Rely on the Holy Spirit.  Paul and Barnabas follow the Holy Spirit's leading and head to the island of Cyprus. There they meet the proconsul Sergius Paulus and his attendant, a sorcerer and false prophet named Bar-Jesus. The sorcerer tries to stop the proconsul from faith in Jesus as Paul and Barnabas share the Good News. God blinds the sorcerer and when the proconsul sees this he believes because he was amazed at the teaching about Jesus.  There is power in the Name of Jesus, there is power through the Holy Spirit, there is insight given to those who believe and trust the Lord and who rely upon the Holy Spirit. Acts 13:4-12    Connect Scripture to today. Paul and Barnabas leave Cyprus and sail to Perga and then travel to Pisidian Antioch. They go to the synagogue and are asked if they have a word of exhortation to share with the people. Paul talks through the history of the people of Israel and all that God had done ending with God's bringing of the Messiah, Jesus the Savior. Paul connected the scripture to the present day. The Bible is for all people, in all times, in every generation. The Scriptures are relevant for us today. Acts 13:13-26 Testifies to the Risen Savior.  Paul goes on to say how people missed and ignored what was prophesied about the Savior even going so far as to execute Him on the cross even without proper grounds to do so. Then they laid him in a tomb and God raised Him from the dead and there are witnesses to His resurrection.  Paul makes it evident that what the prophets had said would happen was accomplished with Jesus Christ the Messiah and risen Savior. Our mission is to testify what God has done and point people to Jesus.   Acts 13:27-32  Christ alone can free us.  Paul shares by quoting Scriptures: Psalm 2:7, Isaiah 55:3, Psalm 16:10 and goes on to tell that all sins are forgiven in Christ. Following the Law doesn't save us, rather it shows us our failure to uphold it and shows our need for the Savior. Through faith in Jesus we are set free from every sin, a justification we are unable to obtain ourselves, it is only in Jesus Christ alone.  Act 23:33-43 The following weeks many came to the synagogue to hear the Good News but some Jews were filled with jealousy and began to contradict what Paul was saying, heaping abuse on him. Paul and Barnabas spoke boldly that they had to speak the Word of God to the Jews first but that now they would teach the Gentiles. The gentiles rejoiced and the word of the Lord spread throughout the whole region and as it did the Jewish leaders incited the Jewish people against Paul and Barnabas until they finally left, shaking the dust off their feet and going to Iconium filled with joy and the Holy Spirit. Acts 13:44-51   This week's READING ASSIGNMENT: Acts chapter 13-14.      Now What? Learn about God at https://www.awakeusnow.com EVERYTHING we offer is FREE.   Check out this video series from our website: https://www.awakeusnow.com/god-acts-then-now   Or watch from our Youtube channel https://www.youtube.com/@AwakeUsNow/videos   Join us Sundays live or on demand from our website  https://www.awakeusnow.com/sunday-service

What kind of church do we want to become?Not just a church that gathers more people but a church that sends more people.In Acts 13, the church at Antioch gives us a powerful picture of what it looks like to be ALL IN with multiplication. They worshiped before they worked, released their best leaders, and trusted God with the future.Healthy churches don't just grow. Healthy churches multiply.For sixteen years, we've asked, “Who's coming with us?” Now, we're asking a different question: “Who are we willing to send?”The mission is the same, but the map gets bigger.In this message, Pastor Carl Nichols challenges us to stop measuring success by our seating capacity and start measuring it by our sending capacity.

2 Timothy 3:10-13 [10] But you have carefully followed my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, perseverance, [11] persecutions, afflictions, which happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra-what persecutions I endured. And out of them all the Lord delivered me. [12] Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. [13] But evil men and impostors will grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived.

"He was an officer, a tribune, in the Roman army in the time of the Emperor Maximian. A Syrian by birth, he served in his native land. When the Persians attacked the imperial Roman army, this Andrew was entrusted with the command in the battle against the enemy — whence his title: commander, strateletes. A secret Christian, although as yet unbaptised, Andrew commended himself to the living God, and, taking only the cream of the army, went to war. Before the battle, he told his soldiers that, if they all called upon the aid of the one, true God, Christ the Lord, their enemies would become as dust scattered before them. All the soldiers, fired with enthusiasm by Andrew and his faith, invoked Christ's aid and attacked. The Persian army was utterly routed. When the victorious Andrew returned to Antioch, some jealous men denounced him as a Christian and the imperial governor summoned him for trial. Andrew openly proclaimed his steadfast faith in Christ. After harsh torture, the governor threw Andrew into prison and wrote to the Emperor in Rome. Knowing Andrew's popularity among the people and in the army, the Emperor ordered the governor to set Andrew free, but to seek another occasion and another excuse (not his faith) to kill him. By God's revelation, Andrew came to know of this imperial command, and, taking his faithful soldiers (2,593 in all) with him, went off to Tarsus in Cilicia, where they were all baptised by the bishop, Peter. Persecuted here also by imperial might, Andrew and his companions withdrew deep into the Armenian mountain of Tavros. There in a ravine, while they were at prayer, the Roman army came upon them and beheaded them all. Not one of them would recant, all being determined on death by martyrdom for Christ. On the spot where a stream of the martyrs' blood flowed down, a spring of healing water sprang forth, healing from every disease. The bishop, Peter, came secretly with his people and buried the martyrs' bodies in that same place. They all suffered with honour at the end of the third century and were crowned with wreaths of eternal glory, entering into the Kingdom of Christ our God." (Prologue)

Join us as we dig deeper into last Sunday's sermon from Pastor Gabe Kasper "The Gospel for the Greeks" and hear from Amy Duncan and Nate Zuellig on "You Walk With Me".   Digging Deeper Questions: Where/to whom has God sent you?   What does "Spiritual depth" look like in your life?   An "other focus" doesn't mean we spend our lives worried about what others think of us, or as people pleasers, rather it means we live lives looking to serve others in love. What is challenging about that?   How does receiving grace transform our lives?   Scripture Reading: Acts 11:19-30 19 Now those who were scattered because of the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia and Cyprus and Antioch, speaking the word to no one except Jews. 20 But there were some of them, men of Cyprus and Cyrene, who on coming to Antioch spoke to the Hellenists also, preaching the Lord Jesus. 21 And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number who believed turned to the Lord. 22 The report of this came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. 23 When he came and saw the grace of God, he was glad, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast purpose, 24 for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord. 25 So Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, 26 and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. For a whole year they met with the church and taught a great many people. And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians.   27 Now in these days prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch. 28 And one of them named Agabus stood up and foretold by the Spirit that there would be a great famine over all the world (this took place in the days of Claudius). 29 So the disciples determined, every one according to his ability, to send relief to the brothers living in Judea. 30 And they did so, sending it to the elders by the hand of Barnabas and Saul. Intro/Outro Song: "Only One" Nate Zuellig ULC Artist In Residence    "You Walk With Me" Housefires CCLI Song # 7130488   CCLI License # 11254293

In the first hour of the Chase & Big Joe Show, Big Joe and Nick Frazier set the table for Wednesday's show, including celebrating Dr. Crane's birthday! In the hour, the guys talk with East Robertson head football coach Chris Keylon to discuss the upcoming season opener, Jake Lyman joins the show to sit down with Titans WR Chimere Dike, and today's Question of the Day: What's the perfect gift for someone who has everything? In the second hour of the show, Big Joe and Nick Frazier talk with Antioch head football coach Arcentae Broome and Summit head football coach Brian Coleman to discuss their team's and the upcoming high school football season. Also, the guys discuss the news of Tennessee and Alabama wearing their home jerseys against each other in 2026 and 2027, the impact of travel ball on kids, and what it would take for the Titans to go 14-3 this season. In the last hour, the guys talk with long-time NFL insider John McClain to discuss the Titans as well as the latest news around the NFL. Also, Joe and Dr. Crane debate if corners should play physically, and the guys play America's favorite game: What Day Is It and Celebrity Birthdays!

In the second hour of the Chase & Big Joe Show, Big Joe and Nick Frazier talk with Antioch head football coach Arcentae Broome and Summit head football coach Brian Coleman to discuss their team's and the upcoming high school football season. Also, the guys discuss the news of Tennessee and Alabama wearing their home jerseys against each other in 2026 and 2027, the impact of travel ball on kids, and what it would take for the Titans to go 14-3 this season.

During the second hour of Wednesday's Chase & Big Joe Show, Big Joe and Dr. Crane talk with Antioch head football coach Arcentae Broome about the upcoming season, his time and impact as a coach in Metro Nashville, and more.

Former Nashville Teachers Claim Metro Schools Admin Directed Them To Change Failing Students' GradesTennessee Conservative News [By Olivia Lupia] –Two former teachers at different Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) have alleged that district administration pressured them to alter failing student grades, reprimanding them for refusing to do so, and were also discouraged from reporting student behavioral issues to bolster district statistics.The story made national headlines last week when award-winning former teacher Samira Hardcastle, who resigned earlier this year after eight years of teaching art in Metro schools, took her complaints directly to the school board, citing allegations concerning grading, staffing, and other workplace issues.Hardcastle, who was previously named teacher of the Year at John F. Kennedy Middle School in Antioch and recognized as a Blue Ribbon Teacher of the Year for the 2025-2026 school year, submitted a three-page resignation letter in May, outlining her concerns about the grade manipulation and behavioral issues with students.“The news reports that behavioral issues are down, they are not. We are simply banned from reporting them, forcing us to keep disruptive students in the classroom,” she said during her testimony. “Statistics are being skewed to protect the district, not our children. Our children cannot read or write. They cannot do basic math.” She also recounted her experience of giving a failing mark to a student for not finishing a project, then having the mother complain and harass the school district until her child was given a passing grade by the administration, overriding Hardcastle's original grade which she stood by. She said this was just one example of the grade fabrication practice which she believes is pushed by administrators to make district scores look better.“The kids don't put in the work. They get the grade they earn, and the parents would come and complain and argue and say that I didn't do something correctly. And so then when that district gets involved, they just side with the parent to shut them up,” Hardcastle later elaborated to a local news outlet.“It creates false entitlement. What happens when these kids lie, cheat and cry their way through school and end up as future doctors, police, or politicians? When will you protect the future of our society?” she demanded of the school board.Hardcastle also claimed the HR department withheld money from her paycheck and others. “They took $500 from me specifically and it put me behind on my mortgage. And then they sent out an email saying they had to do it to pay other employees,” she alleged.Before resigning, Hardcastle was disciplined for what the district called “unprofessional communication” with a parent and student, but MNPS denies all the allegations in Hardcastle's documentation, telling media outlets there is “no evidence” that any of the former teacher's allegations have been substantiated at JFK Middle School or districtwide, and could not offer definitive clarity about the paycheck discrepancies.But internal emails have also surfaced regarding a second teacher, Diana Wills, who rejected directives to change failing student grades. Wills, a former math teacher at John Overton High School, was ultimately suspended for failing students without informing parents and told she had to give the students passing grades because of it. “What is being done is unethical and could very well be interpreted as illegal,” she wrote in one email. Other emails show how administrators told Wills she had violated district policy by failing students without alerting their parents, and because of that action she needed to pass the students by giving them a D.Wills stood her ground, writing that one student was offered multiple opportunities to make up exams but never did, also noting she was on medical leave for much of one semester. “You are latching onto a very vague line in the policy so you can cook the books to have the data look the way you need it do,” Wills said in another email.The former math teacher is now suing the district for suspending her, though the district contends Wills' case involved a “difference of opinion over district policies” and that the grade changes “did not meaningfully affect the student's final outcome in those courses.”JC Bowman, executive director of Professional Educators of Tennessee, said the concerns raised by Hardcastle and Wills extend beyond Nashville. In a media interview, Bowman said his organization hears similar concerns from educators in other part of the state, though they specifically hear it from MNPS.He showed a text message he received from a teacher in Montgomery County who claimed school districts have been “massaging” discipline numbers for years and expressed frustration with how disruptive student behavior is handled. Bowman pointed to the message as yet another example of why he believes the challenges brought to light by the former Nashville teachers warrant a “broader discussion” about student discipline in Tennessee schools.

How should parents raise their Kids? Do kids always have to obey their parents? The Apostle Paul describes Christian family relationships in Ephesians 6. Pastor Derrick Lynch continues our series, “Ephesians: One in Christ,” preaching from Ephesians 6:1-4. Notes in this sermon: Parents have a responsibility to God to Nourish Children have a responsibility to God to obey Visit www.bluevalleychurch.org for more information about Blue Valley Church in Overland Park and Olathe, Kansas.

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Monday, August 17, 2026

With season 1 and 2 complete we move into Acts: Season 3. The narrative shifts to Antioch and the focus is on Paul - previously called Saul - as he shares the gospel in Gentile areas. ___ Now on his third mission trip, Paul comes back to Ephesus to find 12 men who were committed to a life of purity and repentance but lacking the power of the Holy Spirit.

What does it mean to be a sending people and a sent people? In Acts 13, the church at Antioch trusted the Holy Spirit and sent Barnabas and Saul into the unknown. Pastor Matt Looloian invites us to consider how sending and being sent are not just occasional moments, but part of our identity as followers of Jesus.

As the gospel takes root in Antioch we see the Greeks come to faith in Jesus as the Christ, who isn't just for the Jewish people, but for all people. Receiving this grace transforms us into people who live with a sent posture, spiritual depth, and a heart to serve others.   Scripture Reading: Acts 11:19-30   Digging Deeper Questions: Where/to whom has God sent you?   What does "Spiritual depth" look like in your life?   An "other focus" doesn't mean we spend our lives worried about what others think of us, or as people pleasers, rather it means we live lives looking to serve others in love. What is challenging about that?   How does receiving grace transform our lives?

Once the Jerusalem council had decided that Gentiles did not have to come under the Mosaic Law in order to be saved, they now had to communicate their decision to the churches. They selected Judas Barsabbas and Silas to accompany Paul and Barnbas back to Antioch and deliver a letter to the congregation there. As the Gentiles received this letter, the rejoiced at the goodness of God and hungered all the more to receive teaching about Christ and salvation.

Every church has to make decisions that affect the people of the church. Not everyone agrees with every decision. Is there a basis for how decisions are made? Are there principles that guide us in our decision-making? The conflict in the church in Antioch gives us some insight into how we can work towards unity in the church. Main Scripture passage: Acts 15:21-29

We know that they were first called Christian at Antioch but what actually is a Christian? Find out if it is more than a name or title.

In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Hellenistic Jews[a] among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. 2 So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, "It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. 3 Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them 4 and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word." 5 This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. 6 They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them. 7 So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith. Stephen Seized 8 Now Stephen, a man full of God's grace and power, performed great wonders and signs among the people. 9 Opposition arose, however, from members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen (as it was called)—Jews of Cyrene and Alexandria as well as the provinces of Cilicia and Asia—who began to argue with Stephen. 10 But they could not stand up against the wisdom the Spirit gave him as he spoke.

The gospel wasn't just spread. It was intentionally sent...In this next part of our journey through Acts, we see how the early believers move beyond their borders to carry the message of Jesus to the ends of the earth. From the shores of Antioch to the heart of Rome, they step into the unknown, navigating cultural barriers, trials, and shipwrecks along the way. What looks like a dangerous journey is actually God's direction. As the Church is sent, the gospel transforms the world, and that same mission is handed to us today.

The Apostle Paul had spent about a year and a half in the city of Corinth, but the time had come for him to be back on the move, especially to report back to the church in Jerusalem and the church in Antioch who had commissioned him. In these two paragraphs this morning we follow Paul and we are introduced to Apollos, and through these two men we see exhibited a faithfulness to the church and a faithfulness to biblical practice.

Try the BibleACTS app!: https://bibleacts.goodbarber.app/subscribe Shop "Cut to the Heart" apparel: https://cut2theheart.com In this episode, we continue our verse-by-verse study through **Acts 11**, where Peter explains why he entered the home of Gentiles and how God confirmed that salvation through Jesus Christ was available to them as well. We also see the gospel continue to spread through persecution and the beginning of the influential church at Antioch. In this study, we discuss: * Peter being questioned for eating with Gentiles * Peter recounting his vision and the conversion of Cornelius * The Holy Spirit falling upon the Gentile believers * God granting repentance that leads to life * Why Peter concluded, “Who was I that I could stand in God's way?” * Persecution causing the gospel to spread even farther * Barnabas encouraging the growing church in Antioch * Saul joining Barnabas to teach the believers * The disciples being called “Christians” for the first time Acts 11 shows the gospel breaking through cultural and religious barriers as God continues building His Church among both Jews and Gentiles. Watch, listen, and grow in your faith — and subscribe for more verse-by-verse Bible teaching, podcast discussions, and biblical commentary.

Friday, August 13, 2026

In 1978, the late Evangelist Dr. Billy Graham preached at the Singapore National Stadium for 5 days, and over 337,000 people attended. That's about 10% of the total population of 3 million then. After the crusade, Christianity went up by about 4%, resulting in a tipping point for the Christian faith. He gave a word that Singapore would be the ‘Antioch of Asia'. What does that mean and how can we become the ‘Lion of the East'?

Before Christ, the Bible says we were dead in our sins, lost sheep without a Shepherd. But God. He leaves the 99 to search after the one lost sheep and bring them safely home. In this episode of Antioch Stories, you'll hear the testimonies of three people who once were lost, but now are found. Who once were blind, but now have sight. They were the one God was chasing after!

In Acts 11:26 we read that the disciples were called Christians first at Antioch. "Disciple" is the most used word in the New Testament to describe followers of Jesus. It is used 261 times. The word "Christian" is used only 3 times in the New Testament. Brothers and sisters, believers, followers are also used but "disciples" is Jesus' favorite word to describe His followers.   Matthew 29:19-20 - the Great Commission - Jesus says, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."   The other 2 uses of Christian: Acts 26:28 Then Agrippa said to Paul, "Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?" 1 Peter 4:16 However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.   The New Testament word appears to be invented by the opposition, a derisive term patterned after the names of Roman political parties; Example those following Herod = Herodians, or followers of Pompe = Pompeians.   Christian = Christ followers. Or "Christ-ers."   Followers of Jesus accepted and reveled in the name.  In the writings of non-Christian people we see them embracing that term. "And the tribe of the Christians so called after him, has still to this day not disappeared." - Josephus, Antiquities, Book 18 (ca. 93A.D.)    Another example from an adamant unbeliever: "Consequently, to get rid of the reports, Nero fastened the guilt and inflicted the most exquisite tortures on a class hated for their abominations, called Christians by the populace. Christus, from whom the name had its origin, suffered the extreme penalty during the reign of Tiberius at the hands of one of our procurators, Pontius Pilat…" Tacitus, The Annals, Book 15 (ca.118 A.D.)   Christian is all about the Messiah, the Christ of God, the Lord Jesus our Savior and the world's Savior.  It's also about our mission to bring others to Christ where there is healing, forgiveness, and hope of eternal life.     We are called to bear His Name with joy, confidence and power!!     Now What? Learn about God at https://www.awakeusnow.com EVERYTHING we offer is FREE.   View live or on demand: https://www.awakeusnow.com/tuesday-bible-class   For the full list of videos in this series, Dig Deeper, https://www.awakeusnow.com/dig-deeper   For more check out our Sunday series, God ACTS! https://www.awakeusnow.com/god-acts-then-now   Join us Sundays  https://www.awakeusnow.com/sunday-service   Or watch from our Youtube channel https://www.youtube.com/@AwakeUsNow/videos     Watch via our app. Text HELLO to 888-364-4483 to download our app.

Could your normal, everyday life be holy ground? In this conversation, John Mark and Dr. Sittser discuss how it came to be believed that even the most ordinary of people like you and me — not just saints, mystics or monastics — could create a deeply spiritual life with God in their everyday lives.This podcast and its episodes are paid for by The Circle, our community of monthly givers. Special thanks for this episode goes to: Brook from Antioch, Tennessee; Chris from Burlington, Ontario; Daniel from Vancouver, Washington; Anthony from Raleigh, North Carolina; and Chris from Stone Ridge, New York. Thank you all very much.If you'd like to pay it forward and contribute toward future resources, you can learn more at practicingtheway.org/give.

Faithful ResilienceActs 14Teacher: Pastor Tommy BaileyDate: August 9, 2026In Acts 14, Paul and Barnabas finish a fourteen hundred mile journey marked by resistance at nearly every turn, and when they finally arrive at home base in Antioch, bruised and worn, the first thing they do is gather the church to say, "Look at what God has done!"Join Pastor Tommy as we walk the last miles of that first missionary journey and consider the kind of resilience that sustained them. It was a resilience not sourced in themselves. It was rooted in the grace of God, the mission of God, and the people of God, and it is the same grace given to us in our own callings today.Support the showTo find more resources like these, follow us:Website: https://thevillagechapel.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQVTzDbaiXVUAm_mUBDCTJAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/tvcnashville/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tvcnashvilleX: https://twitter.com/tvcnashvilleTo support the ongoing mission of The Village Chapel go to https://thevillagechapel.com/give/. If you are a regular giver, thank you for your continued faithfulness and generosity!

Reading Acts 14:23-28 where Paul and Barnabas retrace their steps, appointing elders in the churches they had planted, and returning to Antioch to report on the work of God. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!