I Want To Be In On What He’s Doing

In the first 7 chapters, we see the ministry of the Holy Spirit in Jerusalem.  But they got a little lazy, and began to so enjoy what was happening to them that they weren’t taking the message to everyone else.  So God allowed persecution, and as a result, the witness spread.  In Acts 8 and 9 we see the witness in Judea and other places.

After Acts 9, it’s amazing how God could not get the Jerusalem church to fulfill what He said.  So He got someone who was persecuting the church to accomplish His purpose.  Now we see Paul’s ministry beginning, fulfilling the promise to witness to the uttermost parts of the earth.

They were gathered in Antioch: certain prophets and teachers (proclaimers and explainers).  

• Prophets – includes fore-telling, but also forth-telling.
• Teachers – to explain and give understanding and instruction.
• Barnabas – Son of encouragement

Simeon who was called Niger – A teacher of some distinction in the church.  Some suppose this was Simon of Cyrene.

• Lucius – A teacher who was also a kinsman of Paul.
• Manaen – A Christian teacher whose name means counselor.
• If you want to be in on what God is doing you must

Minister to the Lord

In our society, we have placed the ministry to people as the highest accomplishment.  I submit that the highest honor is ministering to the Lord.  And we must be fully satisfied in Him.  To God be all the Glory!  

How did they Minister to the Lord?

They worshipped and fasted!

Fasted and Prayed

In Ezekiel, we see that the penalized priesthood was relegated to ministering people only, and could not enter the Holies of Holies and handle the things of God.

“There are some people more comfortable ministering to people than they are to the Lord.” – Pastor Billy Johnson

The Holy Spirit Said

Acts 13:2a – While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said…

When you minister to the Lord, the Holy Spirit will begin to speak to you. 

Sometimes God doesn’t just call a him, but a them.

Acts 13:2b-3 – Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”  Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off.

“Some were sent and some just went.” – Pastor Billy Johnson