THE EARLY GROWTH MODEL
ACTS 14:21-23 NKJV
21 And when they had preached the gospel to that city and made many disciples, they returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch, 22 strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and saying, "We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God." 23 So when they had appointed elders in every church, and prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord in whom they had believed.
Chapter 14 continues with the story of Paul and Barnabus and their missionary journeys.
They encountered such a contrast of results in almost every city where they preached.
In Lystra, God used them to heal a man born disabled and he walked for the very first time. That was an amazing miracle. The people of that city thought the gods had come in human form. When Paul and Barnabas clarified that they were only men, the people turned on them and stoned Paul. Someone has said that Paul brought revivals and riots wherever he went.
What is inspiring to me is the courage that Paul and Barnabus displayed. They actually would return to the cities that had been abusive to them.
The reason for their return was to strengthen the disciples. These were new believers in an environment without an established church structure.
So they would reinforce what they believed by teaching and preaching God's word. They also were encouraging the believers to continue trusting God, to continue in the faith.
Paul and Barnabus did not sugarcoat expectations for these new believers. They were clear that there would be problems associated with their newfound faith.
Paul and Barnabus set up leaders in all the churches. They prayed with these leaders and commended them to the Lord. In a day when communication was slow and inconsistent, these two men knew that the believers had to be connected to the Lord, not to them personally.
APPLICATION:
Paul and Barnabus showed amazing clarity in establishing new disciples of Jesus.
Preach the gospel so people could believe. Reinforce their beliefs with teaching and more preaching. Encourage new believers to stay connected to their faith. Forewarn them regarding the realities and challenges of a Christian lifestyle. Commend them to the One who makes the biggest difference, the Lord Jesus.
There are many methods of helping believers grow today; many ways to create disciples. The early model that Paul and Barnabas started contains the basics that still stand.
PRAYER:
Thank You, Lord, for Paul and Barnabus. Their courage and convictions regarding Your gospel are still inspiring and instructional for today.