What made the church of Antioch such a powerful missions church?

The Rock in Rephidim (Saudi Arabia)

Just as the water gushed out of this rock over 3,400 years ago to meet the thirst of the people of Israel, the church of Antioch (of Syria) in the first century poured out the Gospel by the power and direction of the Holy Spirit through its numerous preachers.  Two of those preachers we know especially well--Barnabas and Paul.

Antioch was certainly not the only church doing missions.  But, they were obviously pleasing to God for He chose to record some of the doings of this church specifically for our instruction.




What made the church of Antioch such a powerful missions church?
1.  Abundant Sowing of the Word of God in the church:  Acts 13:1; 15:35.
2.  Adament Submission to the Holy Spirit:  Acts 13:2-4; 16:6-7.
3.  Ardent Stand for the truth:  Acts 15:1-3.
4.  Absolute Sufficiency in the grace of God:  Acts 13:3; 14:26.
5.  Active Sending of men to preach the Word of God:  Acts 13:2-3; 15:40.

Most churches, because of following a traditional/cultural model of 'church,' cupold with apathy and worldliness, will not achieve the spiritual outout of Antioch.  Only by a practical and determined daily rejection of all the inventions and wisdom of men and, from our hearts, learning and doing of God's Word and joyful submission to the Holy Spirit of God will churches be as fruitful as Antioch.