The First Christians

Key Takeaways

In the kingdom of King Jesus...

1. fear means family

2. leverage means love

3. a little means a lot

Study Questions

• Question 1

  The church in Antioch was the first multi-ethnic, multicultural church. How does this challenge or inspire you in your view of the church today?

• Question 2

  John mentions his personal journey with confronting racism and experiencing the richness of diverse relationships in Christ. Share or journal about an experience where God has expanded your understanding of Christian fellowship across cultural boundaries.

• Question 3

  How does Barnabas exemplify using leverage for love rather than power? In what areas of your life might God be calling you to leverage your influence for the benefit of others?

• Question 4

  Discuss the concept of encouragement as "oil in the church's engine." Who in your life needs encouragement this week? How can you practically offer it?

• Question 5

  How does the Antioch church's response to the famine challenge our approach to generosity? What might it look like for us to give "according to our ability" in our current context?

5-Day Devotional

DAY 1 DAY 2 DAY 3 DAY 4 DAY 5

Day 1 : The Kingdom Breaks Boundaries

READING :

Acts 11:19-26

DEVOTIONAL :

The early church in Antioch demonstrates how the gospel breaks down cultural and ethnic barriers. As believers, we're called to embrace a diverse family in Christ. Reflect on your own prejudices and comfort zones. How can you intentionally reach across divides to show Christ's love?

APPLICATION :

Pray for God to give you eyes to see others as he does and courage to build relationships beyond your usual circles.

Day 2 : The Power of Encouragement

READING :

Acts 11:23-24, Hebrews 3:12-14

DEVOTIONAL :

Barnabas, the "son of encouragement," played a crucial role in strengthening the Antioch church. His example reminds us of the vital importance of encouragement in the body of Christ. Who in your life needs encouragement today? How can you be a "Barnabas" to someone this week?

APPLICATION :

Prayerfully consider writing a note, making a call, or offering a word of affirmation to build up a fellow believer. Remember, your words have the power to inspire endurance and faith in others.

Day 3 : Humility in Leadership

READING :

Philippians 2:3-11

DEVOTIONAL :

Barnabas demonstrated servant leadership by seeking out Saul and sharing the ministry spotlight. This mirrors Christ's own example of humility. In what areas of your life are you tempted to cling to control or seek recognition? How can you cultivate a posture of humility like Jesus?

APPLICATION :

Ask God to help you release your grip on power and position, trusting that true greatness in His kingdom comes through serving others.

Day 4 : Generosity in Action

READING :

Acts 11:27-30, 2 Corinthians 8:1-9

DEVOTIONAL :

The Antioch church's response to the famine showcases the transformative power of the gospel in generating sacrificial generosity. Their example challenges us to view our resources as tools for Kingdom impact rather than personal security. What has God entrusted to you that could be used to meet others' needs?

APPLICATION :

Pray for God to reveal specific ways you can practice generosity, whether through your time, talents, or treasures. Remember, in God's economy, even a little can mean a lot when given in faith.

Day 5 : Living as "Little Christs"

READING :

Colossians 3:1-17

DEVOTIONAL :

The believers in Antioch were first called "Christians" - literally "little Christs" - because their radical love and unity stood out in their divided city. This name wasn't just a label, but a reflection of their transformed lives. As you read Colossians 3, consider how well your life reflects Christ to those around you. In what ways can you more fully "put on" the character of Jesus in your daily interactions?

APPLICATION :

Ask the Holy Spirit to empower you to live in a way that causes others to see Jesus in you.

This Week’s Liturgy & Playlist

CALL TO WORSHIP

Leader: The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.

People: The Lord is good to all, and his mercy is over all that he has made.

Psalm 145:8-9

Confession of Faith

The Apostles’ Creed

I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to hell. The third day he rose again from the dead. He ascended to heaven and is seated at the right hand of God the Father almighty. From there he will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic* church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

*catholic here means the universal church

Confession of Sin

Gracious Father,
We confess that we have feared difference more than we have loved our neighbor.
We have used power for self, not service. We have hoarded what you gave us to share. Forgive us for shrinking your Kingdom down to our comfort. Make us like your Son Jesus — joyful in sacrifice, generous in love, and bold to invite strangers into your family. That he would receive all the glory in his church. Amen

ASSURANCE OF PARDON

For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.

Romans 8:15-17

Looking Ahead

Next week’s scripture: Acts 12:1-25