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Gentiles added to the Church

Scripture reading for February 7th: Acts 11, Psalm 27, Proverbs 27

Acts 11: 20-26 “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. And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number who believed turned to the Lord. The report of this came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. 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, for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord. So Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, 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.”

Jesus had told His disciples to go into all the world and preach the Gospel, making disciples of all nations. At first, these Jewish disciples and apostles were reluctant to go among the Gentiles. But God worked with them, and through persecution and clear direction took them before Gentile audiences. As they preached Jesus Christ, God worked with them as He promised and many turned to the Lord and were saved. These new believers were first called “Christians” in Antioch and they were discipled by Barnabas and Saul (Paul) who faithfully tended to the Master’s business: making disciples of all nations!

Psalm 27:11″ “Teach me Your way, O Lord, and lead me on a level path because of my enemies. ” . . . 13-14 “I believe that I shall see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living! Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!”

Prayer: Father God, I pray with the Psalmist, “Teach me Your way!” Keep my feet on Your narrow path and let Your grace and power of the Holy Spirit add many to Your Church family. I believe I will see Your goodness in the land of the living! Use me to teach new believers and to tend to the Master’s business. May the Name “Christian” be honored in my life as I wait upon You for courage and strength.

Proverbs 27:17-18 “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another. Whoever tends a fig tree will eat its fruit, and he who guards his master will be honored.”