Radiant Church Visalia

Antioch: Evangelism

Travis Aicklen

radiantvisalia.com
Evangelism (Acts 11:19-26)

Scripture References: Acts 11:19-26, Acts 2, Acts 6-9

Intro:

  • Introduction of Tucker and the Gap Year program.
  • Emphasis on the impact of the Antioch church and its relevance today.
  • Overview of the Acts narrative and the spread of the gospel.
  • Focus on evangelistic boldness as the foundation of the Antioch church's influence.
  • Announcement of a survey to gather input on evangelism.

Key Points:

  • The Planting of the Antioch Church:
    • Forced migration due to persecution as the catalyst.
    • Migrants becoming missionaries, sharing the gospel in new territories.
    • The role of Stephen and the persecution that followed his death (Acts 6-8).
    • The courage of believers to share their faith despite hardship.
  • The Spread of the Gospel to the Gentiles:
    • The church initially sharing the gospel only with Jews.
    • The inclusion of Hellenists (Greeks) and the growth of a multi-ethnic church.
    • The significance of this breakthrough in breaking down barriers.
  • Barnabas and Saul's Involvement:
    • Barnabas's positive assessment of the church in Antioch and his encouragement.
    • Barnabas's journey to find Saul and bring him to Antioch.
    • Saul's (Paul's) conversion and his unique calling to reach the Gentiles (Acts 9).
    • The unlikely partnership of Paul and Barnabas in leading the church.
  • The Message of the Gospel:
    • The core message: Jesus's life, death, resurrection, and ascension (Acts 2).
    • The forgiveness of sins, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, and the new community in Christ.
    • The challenge of sharing this message in a secular context.
  • Practical Tips for Sharing Faith:
    • Conversations, not a conversation: Emphasizing ongoing dialogue.
    • Right questions, not just answers: Listening and engaging with others' perspectives.
    • Attending their events before inviting them to yours: Building relationships and trust.
    • Fishing with a net, not a hook: Fostering community and connection.
    • Becoming their chaplain: Offering support and care in times of crisis.
  • Plausibility Structures:
    • The importance of community experience, facts, and data in making faith plausible.

Conclusion:

  • The Antioch church's example of evangelistic boldness and its impact.
  • The challenge and importance of sharing the gospel in today's world.
  • The call to be intentional and relational in sharing our faith.

Call to Action:

  • Take the survey to provide input on evangelism.
  • Reflect on your own evangelistic boldness.
  • Consider how you can apply the practical tips for sharing your faith.
  • Identify opportunities to build relationships and share the gospel.
  • Pray for courage and boldness to be a witness for Christ.
  • Participate in communion, remembering Jesus's sacrifice and his example of reaching out to us.

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