Series: Rethinking Church
ANTIOCH
Acts 11
The series “Rethinking Church”. . .
· is NOT trying to reinvent the church.
· is NOT trying to become culturally acceptable.
· is NOT revamping the message.
· IS seeking to understand how to be more faithful disciple makers in our current context.
Methods are many, principles are few;
methods always change, principles never do.
Unknown
a healthy church model: ANTIOCH
context
Antioch was located 250 miles north of Jerusalem. It was the 3rd largest city in the Roman empire. Daphne was the object of worship of Antioch. The city was known for its lack of morals.
Because of persecution in Jerusalem, believers moved to Antioch and started proclaiming Jesus.
Antioch Principles
· The Antioch church was intentionally evangelistic.
· The congregation was multicultural.
Antioch was the first Gentile church in the world.
· There was a winsome, joyful spirit in the church.
· They were committed to discipleship.
The term “Christian” originated there.
· Antioch believers were concerned about others.
· They were innovative.
The first mission team was commissioned at Antioch.
Six “musts” for the American church
Sharing the gospel must be the primary goal.
Churches must strive to reconcile rather than to divide.
Methodological adaptation must be embraced.
Believers must live sacrificially.
Sending out must become a major win.
The power of God must be present among the church.
