The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch

Acts 11:19-30

Now those who had been scattered by the persecution that broke out when Stephen was killed traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch, spreading the word only among Jews. Some of them, however, men from Cyprus and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began to speak to Greeks also, telling them the good news about the Lord Jesus. The Lord’s hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord.

News of this reached the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. When he arrived and saw what the grace of God had done, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts. He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord.

Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, and when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year, Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people. The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.

Agabus, stood up and through the Spirit predicted that a severe famine would spread over the entire Roman world. The disciples, as each one was able, decided to provide help for the brothers and sisters living in Judea. This they did, sending their gift to the elders by Barnabas and Saul.

Why?

The Lord's hand was with them and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord. How to do and the hand of the Lord may come with us to do the work of the Lord and to preach the gospel?

The Good News was not only in Caesarea but also preached to Cyprus Cyrene and Antioch. More important the Christian was called from Antioch. For Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul and they served the people in Antioch together. A great number of people turned to Jesus Christ. And the church was formed.

Only Barnabas knew Saul was the chosen one of the Lord, and the Holy Spirit with him. Barnabas knew Saul could do a more important mission than he could.

The church should help other churches when famine comes or disaster comes. We are a family under the Lord.

How?

Serve others and look for some excellent disciples to do the work of the Lord! Walk with the Holy Spirit!