The Missing Antioch
Quite often verses jump off the pages of scripture demanding a season of contemplation. For the past several weeks, I’ve been pondering this passage found in Acts 13:1-3.
“Now there were in the church at Antioch prophets and teachers, Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen a lifelong friend of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul (aka Paul). While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “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.”
What intrigues me about this narrative is what it might imply for the church today. Could it be that we have a MISSING ANTIOCH?
These questions come to mind while pondering this historical event…
Was this a one-time experience played out a few thousand years ago designed exclusively for the Antioch church?
Should the Church replicate the Antioch experience in hearing and sending missionaries?
If so, why is there so few (if any at all) modern day examples of this practices?
If not exclusively for the Antioch church, what purpose does this historical event play in the life of the Church today?
How does this event contribute to a proper understanding of the Great Commission as given by Christ to the Church today?(Matthew 28:18-20 / Acts 1:8).
Most importantly, how do we (the Church) respond?
A common practice in contemporary global missions is what’s known as self-identification. Simply put, a missionary hears from the Lord to go to the nations. Shortly after, the missionary approaches the Church (usually a local congregation) to confirm their calling including a request for prayer and financial support.
The Antioch experience appears to be quite different. While the outcome is quite similar, the Church plays an equal and vital role in identifying the call to global missions. Where are the Antioch experiences lived out today? Are there reasons to re-think and reform the Church’s doctrine and practice of sending? It’s a big question – a question begging for an answer.
Is it possible that global missions would become even more powerful global missions if similar Antioch events were happening in our church gatherings today?