As we begin to look to the Re-Entry into the church building, it is particularly important we do not forget the continuation of what God has been doing over the last two months. As we have looked at Acts the last two weeks, we have seen God taking the initiative to spread the Gospel beyond the confines of Jerusalem and Jewish believers.
God was at work in a variety of ways. Sometimes He used miraculous deliverance; other times He allowed martyrdom. God worked through times of persecution and dispersion but also allowed for proclamation and conversion. We’ve seen God work through the Apostles, what we would call “lay people” and even, as we see today, a converted persecutor of the church who referred to himself as the “worst of all sinners.”
In Chapter 13, God, for the first time, sends two men out on an official work sent by the Church. We read that the church of Antioch was intentionally focused on seeking God’s direction when, Acts 13:2–3 (CSB) “ As 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 they had fasted, prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them off.”
We see three things happen in these two verses. Barnabas and Saul were called by God. This word is a word that signifies that God was giving them a specific task to do. They were set apart. As we examine the last two months of our lives, God has set apart our church in each of our homes and communities. God was not limiting the impact of His church; He was expanding it. God has called each and every Christian to be on mission right where He has placed them.
Second, we see that God commissioned them. God commissioned the two missionaries first by His Spirit but also by the laying on of hands by the church. This was not an ordination but a commitment on the part of the church to support the two missionaries in whatever ways they would need, especially through prayer and encouragement. We, as the body of Christ, must grow in our commitment to pray and encourage one another as we try to meet the spiritual needs of our community. We have been strategically placed in numerous counties and communities. They need Christ; are we fulfilling our commission?
Finally, we see that the pair of missionaries were confirmed before they were sent out. The church heard from God and then continued in prayer and fasting for verification from God. After receiving confirmation, Barnabas and Saul went out obediently. Have you confirmed God’s calling and commissioning in your life?
How sad it would have been if Barnabas and Saul had gone on that first journey and then returned to Antioch or Jerusalem never to go again. The biggest danger threatening the Church has not been the absence of assembling for the last two months. It is the threat that that we may retreat back into a sanctuary and forget the world we have been commanded to reach.
Dear God, Reveal Your calling to our lives and help us to boldly go empowered by Your Holy Spirit in humble obedience to Your command. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Attention All PBC Kids:
Every Tuesday night at 7 pm, we will be having Sunday School
for kids in Kindergarten through 5th grade. Join Carol Jo Taylor on Zoom
for Sunday School. Contact Carol Jo if you need the link.
Also, all kids are invited to a Biblical Storytime with Carol Jo on Sunday nights at 6 pm on Piner Baptist Church Facebook Live.
Items needed for Food Collection Week of May 4-8
Cereal
Pop Tarts
Oatmeal
Granola Bars/Fruit Snacks
Packs of Cookies
Peanut Butter
Mac/Cheese
Canned Vegetables
Tuna/Tuna Helper
Pancake Mix
Dinty Moore Stew/Ravioli
Chef Boyardee Pizza Kits
Loaf of Bread
VBS on the Road
We are looking for volunteers to lead and/or host 2-hour day camps in subdivisions around our area during the month of July. If you are interested in teaching or hosting, please contact Bro. Mark. mark@pinerbaptist.org
Family Meeting May 17
Make plans to join us on a special Zoom Meeting on May 17th. Time and link to be announced.