The Gospel Message in Antioch.
After the disciples had been driven from Jerusalem by persecution, the gospel message spread rapidly through the regions lying beyond the limits of Palestine; and many small companies of believers were formed in important centers.Some of the disciples "traveled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word." Their labors were usually confined to the Hebrew and Greek Jews, large colonies of whom were at this time to be found in nearly all the cities of the world.
Among the places mentioned where the gospel was gladly received is Antioch, at that time the metropolis of Syria.The extensive commerce carried on from that populous center brought to the city many people of various nationalities.Besides, Antioch was favorably known as a resort for lovers of ease and pleasure, because of its healthful situation, its beautiful surroundings, and the wealth, culture, and refinement to be found there.In the days of the apostles it had become a city of luxury and vice.
The gospel was publicly taught in Antioch by certain disciples from Cyprus and Cyrene, who came "preaching the Lord Jesus." "The hand of the Lord was with them," and their earnest labors were productive of fruit."A great number believed, and turned unto the Lord.""Tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch." Upon arrival in his new field of labor, Barnabas saw the work that had already been accomplished by divine grace, and he "was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord."The labors of Barnabas in Antioch were richly blessed, and many were added to the number of believers there.As the work developed, Barnabas felt the need of suitable help in order to advance in the opening providences of God, and he went to Tarsus to seek for Paul, who, after his departure from Jerusalem some time before, had been laboring in "the regions of Syria and Cilicia," proclaiming "the faith which once he destroyed." Galatians 1:21, 23.Barnabas was successful in finding Paul and in persuading him to return with him as a companion in ministry.
In the populous city of Antioch, Paul found an excellent field of labor.His learning, wisdom, and zeal exerted a powerful influence over the inhabitants and frequenters of that city of culture; and he proved just the help that Barnabas needed.For a year the two disciples labored unitedly in faithful ministry, bringing to many a saving knowledge of Jesus of Nazareth, the world's Redeemer.
It was in Antioch that the disciples were first called Christians.The name was given them because Christ was the main theme of their preaching, their teaching, and their conversation.Continually they were recounting the incidents that had occurred during the days of His earthly ministry, when His disciples were blessed with His personal presence.Untiringly they dwelt upon His teachings and His miracles of healing.With quivering lips and tearful eyes they spoke of His agony in the garden, His betrayal, trial, and execution, the forbearance and humility with which He had endured the contumely and torture imposed upon Him by His enemies, and the Godlike pity with which He had prayed for those who persecuted Him.His resurrection and ascension, and His work in heaven as the Mediator for fallen man, were topics on which they rejoiced to dwell.Well might the heathen call them Christians, since they preached Christ and addressed their prayers to God through Him.
It was God who gave to them the name of Christian.This is a royal name, given to all who join themselves to Christ.It was of this name that James wrote later, "Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats? Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called?"James 2:6, 7.And Peter declared, "If any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf." "If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you." 1 Peter 4:16, 14.
The believers at Antioch realized that God was willing to work in their lives "both to will and to do of His good pleasure." Philippians 2:13.
Living, as they were, in the midst of a people who seemed to care but little for the things of eternal value, they sought to arrest the attention of the honest in heart, and to bear positive testimony concerning Him whom they loved and served.In their humble ministry they learned to depend upon the power of the Holy Spirit to make effective the word of life.And so, in the various walks of life, they daily bore testimony of their faith in Christ.
The example of the followers of Christ at Antioch should be an inspiration to every believer living in the great cities of the world today.While it is in the order of God that chosen workers of consecration and talent should be stationed in important centers of population to lead out in public efforts, it is also His purpose that the church members living in these cities shall use their God-given talents in working for souls.There are rich blessings in store for those who surrender fully to the call of God.As such workers endeavor to win souls to Jesus, they will find that many who never could have been reached in any other way are ready to respond to intelligent personal effort.
The cause of God in the earth today is in need of living representatives of Bible truth.The ordained ministers alone are not equal to the task of warning the great cities.God is calling not only upon ministers, but also upon physicians, nurses, colporteurs, Bible workers, and other consecrated laymen of varied talent who have a knowledge of the word of God and who know the power of His grace, to consider the needs of the unwarned cities.Time is rapidly passing, and there is much to be done.Every agency must be set in operation, that present opportunities may be wisely improved.
