1 Now there were in the church at Antioch prophets and teachers, Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, [1] Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen a member of the court of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. 2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3 Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off.
Acts 13 1-3
Barnabas and Saul carried considerable anointing from God. Try and imagine having them in your church, the son of encouragement and the great apostle. These men would transfrom any community they were part of.
Yet here, this church is willing to send them off on mission.
I DON’T THINK THAT WOULD HAVE BEEN EASY
The questions I have for those Christians in Antioch are; How did you do it? & Why did you do it?
I think the answers must be found in the gospel it’s-self
We are generally very happy to enjoy the benefits of the gospel
- Forgiveness
- Freedom from guilt
- The Holy Spirit
- The promise of eternal life
What is noticeable of these Christians is that they were not only enjoying the benefits of the gospel but they also allowed the gospel to shape them. In this case they were prepared to send their best.
This is a reflection of the Father’s willingness to send the best of heaven, the Son of His love.
They sent Paul and Barnabas knowing they had received the best from God. This shaping by the gospel is essential as we seek maturity of faith.