Be Glad

Acts 11:19-24

“19 Now those who had been scattered by the persecution that broke out when Stephen was killed traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch, spreading the word only among Jews. 20 Some of them, however, men from Cyprus and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began to speak to Greeks also, telling them the good news about the Lord Jesus. 21 The Lord’s hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord. 22 News of this reached the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. 23 When he arrived and saw what the grace of God had done, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts. 24 He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord.”

Gentiles in Antioch were sought out for the purpose of sharing the gospel with them.  This represents a turning point for the church.  For the first time the gospel was deliberately shared with Gentiles.  A great number of these people believed and repented.  And they received the Holy Spirit.

Barnabas, a good man who was full of faith, who was led by the Holy, went to Antioch to see if this movement was of God.  What he witnessed was the hand of God at work and he encouraged these new Christians in their faith.

Barnabas saw the new way God was leading and he was glad; glad that the Gentiles were followers of Christ and had a relationship with God.

When someone professes faith in Christ, it is a moment of great joy and gladness to God….and should be to us as well.

May the love of Christ be with you,

Rev. Eric Lanier (Retired)