SUMMARY: Open doors
OVERVIEW: Paul and Barnabas’ lives are threatened, despite seeing a “great number” (v. 1) of converts and winning “a large number” (v. 21) of disciples.
BIG IDEA: Persevere in what God has called you to do because he is always at work around you.
KEY VERSE: Acts 14:27 (Paul and Barnabas report to the church)
Upon arriving in Antioch, they called the church together and reported everything God had done through them and how he had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles, too.
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
Take time to share with others what I am doing in and through you. As you follow me, you will witness miracles, see lives changed, and experience my power, faithfulness, and purpose. You will see amazing things, but you will also encounter hardship. Sacrifice will be necessary, but don’t be discouraged. Share all of it, wherever you go: the good, the bad, and the miraculous. Don’t hide any of it. Live transparent lives for all to learn from and see.
Some may recognize extraordinary qualities within you and look to you for salvation. Recognize their compliment, but always point them to me. Remind everyone that I am the remarkable power working through you to impact others. As you share the truth about all you encounter as a Christ-follower, others will be challenged, encouraged, and motivated to keep going. Faithfully follow me to the end. Point others to me and celebrate your journey of faith.
NEXT STEP
Organize your story about God’s work in your life by reflecting upon the following questions: What was my life like before I became a Christ-follower? What happened when I chose to go where God was leading me? What is my life like now? Look for opportunities to report what God is doing in and through you.
MUSIC VIDEO