The Apostolic Model at Antioch (Acts 13:1-3)
Characteristics of the New Testament Apostolic Congregation at Antioch
by Apostle Thurlow J. Switzer
It is a historical accuracy that the church at Antioch was started indirectly by Paul. When he was yet called Saul and, before his conversion he was persecuting the Church of Jesus Christ; he led the specific actions that resulted in Stephen’s death (Acts 8:1). It is fascinating that later Barnabas called Saul to come and help him lead the church at Antioch.
In the course of time, the church of Antioch became a wonderful New Testament model of church life and apostolic ministry. Over thirty years ago, I wrote and adopted the following items as important attributes, functions and dimensions that I believed God was leading to become characteristic of the church I was pastoring.
To my mind, it seemed that the church of Jerusalem was focused around the strength, identity and Jewish culture of the original twelve apostles. However, in the Church at Antioch, the gospel had clearly broken out beyond the confines of a primary Hebraic orientation to penetrate the Gentile world. Barnabas, the “son of encouragement” (Acts 4:36) represented the Jewish roots at Antioch, but Paul came to represent the advance of the gospel to the non-Jewish people. The church at Antioch was an exciting church, an effective church and an entrepreneurial church. The following dimensions characterized the Antioch mission.
1. EVANGELISM: The Openhearted Preaching of the Good News (Acts 11:19-21).
Acts 11:19-21 - 19 Now those who were scattered after the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word… 20 But some of them were men from Cyprus and Cyrene, who, when they had come to Antioch, spoke to the Hellenists, preaching the Lord Jesus. 21 And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number believed and turned to the Lord (NKJV).
The church of Antioch was birthed amidst the joyous experience of Jewish believers telling Gentile people about the Lord Jesus. The first dimension of a living church is simple. Are its believers spontaneously and joyfully sharing the good news about Jesus Christ? The church was begun by simple believers who “had been scattered by the persecution in connection with Stephen,” and were fleeing for their lives. They had traveled as far as Antioch, at first, “telling the message only to Jews” (Acts 11:19). Some of them, however, “began to speak to the Greeks also, telling them the good news about the Lord Jesus” (11:20). The Lord’s hand was with them and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord (11:21). Openhearted evangelism is essentially outreach and ministry flowing out of a heart of love and genuine burden for another. It cannot help but touch people when it flows out of the integrity and overflow of a community of people interacting in the love and grace of God. No one can be forced or coerced. “Whatever does not come from faith is sin” (Romans 14:23). Mechanical ministry does not work; only the true overflow of love and life works. The spirit of evangelism continued to characterize the ministry of Barnabas and Saul.ealing of the nations (Rev 22:2).
2. MULTI-RACIAL: Cross-cultural Community
This church was a blending of races and cultures. At first, they preached the Word to no one but the Jews. The church successfully overcame the “single focus” in the early church on Jews only. Some began to preach the Lord Jesus to the Greek-Hellenists. By the time a church leadership nucleus was formed, the congregation was clearly cross-cultural. The congregation emerged with an inclusive vision and exhibited diversity of cultures. Their leadership included those from Cyprus (Mediterranean), Cyrene (North Africa); Antiochians, Hellenists, and Jewish people, likely people from Nigeria.
The Antioch community began by reaching out to people in their geopolitical region; so should we in the 21st Century.
3. COMMUNITY: Every Member Participation and Discipleship (Acts 11:20).
A New Testament congregation is not democratic like the average American congregation. It was a visible community of God’s people existing and operating together under a sense of God’s theocratic love and administration through those gifted and “God-placed” leaders - “gift ministry” leaders, in their midst. Its slogan might have been, A community “of the people, for the people, by the people” to the glory of God. The church, and by implication, every local congregation, is made up of God’s people, His family, a living body at work (Eph. 4:11-16). God’s paradigm – a paradigm embraced by the church at Antioch and one being embraced afresh today by countless hundreds of congregations -- is a work that invites and involves “every member” participation. In Acts 11:21 and 24, we are told a “great number” believed and were brought to the Lord, but in verse 26, a “great number” of people were taught and discipled. The best kind of leadership is leadership which grows up in our midst and enters into the ministry at some level, either as deacons, overseers, elders, staff administrators, or as Eph. 4:11 gift ministry equippers.
4. COMPASSION: A Sense of Compassion and Caring Generosity (Acts 11:23, 30; 4:32-37; Acts 13:2).
The Antioch church was a giving church. Paul taught in Acts 20:35 that “it is more blessed to give than to receive.” Perhaps he learned the joy of this at Antioch when he was associated with Barnabas, who was known as the Son of Encouragement (Acts 4:36). Barnabas, identified as the “son of encouragement,” exemplified a humble, sacrificial and generous heart (Acts 4:32-37).
Barnabas was a “good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith” (11:24). We are told that in his heart “he was glad” when he saw the evidence of God’s grace in people, and that he “encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts” (Acts 11:23). May the “Barnabas Spirit” increase in every congregation and in every leader!
All ministries should exist for the edification and encouragement of each and every person. Then each one will be encouraged and have a felt sense and real perception that they are being cared for. People are more important than details, procedures, legalities, or the exercise of arbitrary principles.
5. Radical Identification with Christ (Acts 11:19-26, 13:2).
Notice the phrases such as “Lord Jesus,” “the Lord’s hand,” “they turned to the Lord,” “a great many people added,” “people added to the Lord” abound in this passage. Notice some particular characteristics of those at Antioch who developed a radical identification with Jesus as Christ.
a) They turned to the Lord (11:21). At the preaching of Christ, they turned to the Lord. There was a true turning. There was true repentance, a change of mind-set, turning from a worldly view to a kingdom view.
b) They purposed in heart to continue with the Lord (11:23). When Barnabas was sent up by the apostles from Jerusalem to help the new believers, “he came and had seen the grace of God; he was glad and encouraged them all that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord.”
c) They were willing to be taught (11:26). Later, when Barnabas brought up Saul to work with him, “for a whole year they assembled with the church and taught a great many people.”
d) They were genuine Christians, “Christ-Ones.” The result, “the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.”
The critical foundation for believers is the foundation of Christ.
Christ must be the center of the congregation. Not programs or personalities, not procedures, not proprieties, but Christ, the reality and presence of Christ. Everything we do must reflect Him, His nature and character. Otherwise we lose integrity. Their life, worship, and leadership identity was unto the Lord. They would seek guidance as they worshipped the Lord (13:2).
6. TEACHING: Prophetic Preaching and Thoughtful Teaching (Acts 11:26; 13:1; 15:35).
The people and leaders are committed to the whole counsel of God and to a preaching and teaching of the Word that imparts vision, understanding and motivation for the congregation. The Antioch model was one of plurality. Not just one voice, but mutuality, a plurality, a consensus of “voice” to the congregation. There was a discipleship track for new believers to pursue. The goal was to raise up a congregation or, better yet, an army of disciplined believers. There is no true teaching until true learning has occurred.
7. WORSHIP: Expressive Dynamic Worship (Acts 13:2-3).
“While they were worshipping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said ‘Set apart Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them’ (13:2). True worship of God requires the centrality of Christ’s Lordship, allows room for the voice and working of the Holy Spirit, and exhibits submission to the expressed will of God - all of this in the midst of body-life in the congregation and leadership team.
Psalm 36:1-12 reveals the earmarks of a congregation that has learned to allow the Spirit of Christ to dominate and flood the worship, where the Holy Spirit is allowed to speak and the congregation allowed to listen and respond. It is the dividing line between the wicked, egocentric and proud (Ps. 36:1-4, 12) and those who find refuge in the shadow of God’s wings, feast on the abundance of God’s house, and drink at the fountain of life (36:5-11).
Worship is the corporate activity of abiding in the vine (John 14:1-2). “How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity” (Psalm 133:1). It causes the flowing of the precious anointing oil.
8. PROPHETIC: Spirit–Anointed Openness to the Spirit’s Leading (Acts 11:27-30; 13:2).
The Antioch church was a praying church. Furthermore, it is apparent that the church believed, practiced, and received the gifts of the Spirit. Clearly the leadership nucleus at Antioch was open to the Holy Spirit.
Here are two instances in which the leadership of the Antioch church responded to and obeyed the leading of the Holy Spirit. They listened to the prophets - in this case, Agabus who came from Jerusalem along with other prophets. They listened to the voice of the Holy Spirit and sent out apostles. The Antioch church knew how to touch God in both their individual and corporate life. The leadership team led the way.
9. EQUIPPING: Multiplying Disciples and Leadership (Acts 11:26; 13:1-2).
In harmony with Ephesians 4:11-12, the church at Antioch was an equipping church. They believed every member had a role. Leaders in an apostolic church must not suppress those coming forth but encourage, edify, and equip them to the ministry, releasing them progressively into the ministry. The Antioch church believed in the laying on of hands for commissioning individuals to kingdom ministry.
10. PLURALITY: Shared Leadership and Word Ministry (Acts 11:25; 13:1-3; 14:28).
“Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people” (11:25). “At the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers” (13:1). As they were worshipping, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart to me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them” (13:2). Later, Saul and Barnabas returned and “stayed a long time with the disciples at Antioch” (14:28). We see also in Acts 14:32 that Silas stayed in Antioch and became part of the plurality of gift ministries.
The Antioch leadership model in Antioch is that of a plurality of leaders functioning together in collegial oneness, diversity and strength. This is quite different from the American model of just one senior leader or senior couple. Plurality is a strong model. Plurality is strength to the congregation and its people. It is a preferred model, one that creates less one-man dependency and “hero-worship” (a pagan, mythological concept), but allows for a team of champions and those in mutuality of submission to come forth. It provides for a stronger model of synergy and diversity of gifts, motives and inspiration. It supplies an enlarged pool of resources for the immediate congregational ministry and any extended apostolic work that flows out of the congregation.
A plurality of leaders, elders, teachers and prophets ministered the word at Antioch. Their diverse cultural identities and names are listed in Acts 13:1. Later, after Paul and Barnabas were sent out to do apostolic work and they had returned home, it could be rightfully stated that “apostles” were added to the plurality list of leaders. When some in the leadership team were sent off to minister in other churches, “Paul and Barnabas remained at Antioch, where they and many others taught and preached the word of the Lord” (15:35).
11. APOSTOLIC: Antioch Was an Apostolic Base Church (Acts 13:1-3; 15:32).
The church at Antioch was an apostolic base community with a “missional” perspective, and this involved a “going” and “coming” ministry beyond the parameters of the local church. There was an interactive teamwork between apostles and elders.
Later, “when they had preached the word...they sailed back to Antioch, where they had been committed to the grace of God for the work they had now completed. On arriving there, they gathered the church together and reported all that God had done through them.
At the time of the Acts 15 Council, a serious doctrinal dispute had developed in the church at Antioch over issues of the law and faith, so “Paul and Barnabas were appointed...to go up to Jerusalem to see the apostles and elders” (Acts 15:2, 4). Galatians 1:18-19 states that Paul went up to Jerusalem to get acquainted with Peter and James, the Lord’s brother. Galatians 2:8 records that 14 years later, Paul and Barnabas went up to Jerusalem to meet James, Peter and John, those reputed to be pillars.” An interesting and necessary dynamic develops. A proper interaction between trans-local apostles (sent ones) and local leaders (elders) will bring balance, enlarged insight and forward progress. It seems obvious that Paul and Barnabas were exposed to an active model of interaction between elders and apostles, part of a team of apostles, prophets, teachers and elders.
After the Acts 15 Council, certain ones were sent off to convey the results of the council to the churches. When they had traveled to all the churches on the way and had come to Antioch, while Judas returned to Jerusalem, Silas remained behind at Antioch and joined with Paul and Barnabas and all the leaders in teaching and preaching the Word.
Later, Paul and Barnabas determined they should go out to the various churches and encourage them. Paul took Silas and Barnabas took Mark.
Barnabas took Mark and sailed for Cyprus (Acts 15:39). Paul chose Silas and left, commended by the brothers to the grace of God, and he went through out Syria and Cilicia strengthening the churches” (Acts 15:41). This is a pattern of leaders “coming and going.” They not only contribute their strengths and gifting in the midst of their home church, out of the abundance of their gifts and spiritual leadership, but also they helped supply what was needed for other churches in the region and beyond.
12. LEADERSHIP: Lead Person Leadership (Acts 15:13-19).
A question has often lingered in the realm of local church leadership. Should there be a single pastor or a single, senior leader, who has position, power, and preeminence over other elders and leaders? It seems, throughout history, that in a local assembly, normally one person has become the set man, point person or spokesman for the resident eldership. Ephesians 4:
Barnabas was the early point-person leader at Antioch before he brought up Saul to serve alongside him; soon he brought Saul to work with him. There does not seem to be a clear pattern of one leader per congregation, as is often called the “set man.” The closest we come to that possibility is the story of James in the church at Jerusalem. It seems that James may have been such a point person, interacting with such apostles as Peter and Paul. “When they [Paul and Barnabas] had finished speaking, James spoke up; ‘Brothers, listen to me. Simon has described.... The prophets are in agreement with this (scripture quoted). It is my judgment, therefore, that we should do the following...’” (e.g., a conclusion and consensus declared) (Acts 15:13-19). In Acts 21:18, Paul and his team arrived in Jerusalem, and “they went to see James and all the elders with him.” Peter led the apostolic mission to the Jews. Paul led the apostolic mission to the Gentiles. James provided leadership for the congregation at Jerusalem. Barnabas initially provided leadership for the congregation at Antioch. However, it seems emphatically that James was surrounded by elders and interacted with the apostles for the sake of the larger mission. For instance, in Acts 15:4, when Paul and Barnabas came “to Jerusalem, they were received by the church and the apostles and the elders,” (15:5), as “the apostles and elders came together to consider matters” (15:6). The result was that “it pleased the apostles and elders, with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas, namely, Judas who was also named Barsabbas, and Silas, leading men among the brethren” (Acts 15:22).The pattern of plurality is emphasized in I Thessalonians chapter 5:
- Acts 8:1-5 - Now Saul was consenting to his death. At that time a great persecution arose against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles. 2 And devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great lamentation over him. 3 As for Saul, he made havoc of the church, entering every house, and dragging off men and women, committing them to prison. 4 Therefore those who were scattered went everywhere preaching the word (NKJV).
- Acts 9:26-31 - 26 - And when Saul had come to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples; but they were all afraid of him, and did not believe that he was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. And he declared to them how he had seen the Lord on the road, and that He had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus. 28 So he was with them at Jerusalem, coming in and going out. 29 And he spoke boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus and disputed against the Hellenists, but they attempted to kill him. 30 When the brethren found out, they brought him down to Caesarea and sent him out to Tarsus. 31 Then the churches throughout all Judea, Galilee, and Samaria had peace and were edified. And walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, they were multiplied (NKJV).
- Acts 11:19-21-19 Now those who were scattered after the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to no one but the Jews only. 20 But some of them were men from Cyprus and Cyrene, who, when they had come to Antioch, spoke to the Hellenists, preaching the Lord Jesus. 21 And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number believed and turned to the Lord (NKJV).
In the course of time, the church of Antioch became a wonderful New Testament model of church life and apostolic ministry. Over thirty years ago, I wrote and adopted the following items as important attributes, functions and dimensions that I believed God was leading to become characteristic of the church I was pastoring.
To my mind, it seemed that the church of Jerusalem was focused around the strength, identity and Jewish culture of the original twelve apostles. However, in the Church at Antioch, the gospel had clearly broken out beyond the confines of a primary Hebraic orientation to penetrate the Gentile world. Barnabas, the “son of encouragement” (Acts 4:36) represented the Jewish roots at Antioch, but Paul came to represent the advance of the gospel to the non-Jewish people. The church at Antioch was an exciting church, an effective church and an entrepreneurial church. The following dimensions characterized the Antioch mission.
1. EVANGELISM: The Openhearted Preaching of the Good News (Acts 11:19-21).
Acts 11:19-21 - 19 Now those who were scattered after the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word… 20 But some of them were men from Cyprus and Cyrene, who, when they had come to Antioch, spoke to the Hellenists, preaching the Lord Jesus. 21 And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number believed and turned to the Lord (NKJV).
The church of Antioch was birthed amidst the joyous experience of Jewish believers telling Gentile people about the Lord Jesus. The first dimension of a living church is simple. Are its believers spontaneously and joyfully sharing the good news about Jesus Christ? The church was begun by simple believers who “had been scattered by the persecution in connection with Stephen,” and were fleeing for their lives. They had traveled as far as Antioch, at first, “telling the message only to Jews” (Acts 11:19). Some of them, however, “began to speak to the Greeks also, telling them the good news about the Lord Jesus” (11:20). The Lord’s hand was with them and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord (11:21). Openhearted evangelism is essentially outreach and ministry flowing out of a heart of love and genuine burden for another. It cannot help but touch people when it flows out of the integrity and overflow of a community of people interacting in the love and grace of God. No one can be forced or coerced. “Whatever does not come from faith is sin” (Romans 14:23). Mechanical ministry does not work; only the true overflow of love and life works. The spirit of evangelism continued to characterize the ministry of Barnabas and Saul.ealing of the nations (Rev 22:2).
2. MULTI-RACIAL: Cross-cultural Community
- Acts 11:19-20 - 19 Now those who were scattered … traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to no one but the Jews only. 20 But some of them were men from Cyprus and Cyrene, who, when they had come to Antioch, spoke to the Hellenists, preaching the Lord Jesus.
- 13:1 Now in the church that was at Antioch there were certain prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul (NKJV).
This church was a blending of races and cultures. At first, they preached the Word to no one but the Jews. The church successfully overcame the “single focus” in the early church on Jews only. Some began to preach the Lord Jesus to the Greek-Hellenists. By the time a church leadership nucleus was formed, the congregation was clearly cross-cultural. The congregation emerged with an inclusive vision and exhibited diversity of cultures. Their leadership included those from Cyprus (Mediterranean), Cyrene (North Africa); Antiochians, Hellenists, and Jewish people, likely people from Nigeria.
- Deut 10:17-19 - 17 For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality nor takes a bribe. 18 He administers justice for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the stranger, giving him food and clothing. 19 Therefore love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt (NKJV).
The Antioch community began by reaching out to people in their geopolitical region; so should we in the 21st Century.
3. COMMUNITY: Every Member Participation and Discipleship (Acts 11:20).
- Acts 11:22-26 - 22 Then news of these things came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent out Barnabas to go as far as Antioch. 23 When he came and had seen the grace of God, he was glad, and encouraged them all that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord. 24 For he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord. 25 Then Barnabas departed for Tarsus to seek Saul. 26 And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for a whole year they assembled with the church and taught a great many people. And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch (NKJV).
A New Testament congregation is not democratic like the average American congregation. It was a visible community of God’s people existing and operating together under a sense of God’s theocratic love and administration through those gifted and “God-placed” leaders - “gift ministry” leaders, in their midst. Its slogan might have been, A community “of the people, for the people, by the people” to the glory of God. The church, and by implication, every local congregation, is made up of God’s people, His family, a living body at work (Eph. 4:11-16). God’s paradigm – a paradigm embraced by the church at Antioch and one being embraced afresh today by countless hundreds of congregations -- is a work that invites and involves “every member” participation. In Acts 11:21 and 24, we are told a “great number” believed and were brought to the Lord, but in verse 26, a “great number” of people were taught and discipled. The best kind of leadership is leadership which grows up in our midst and enters into the ministry at some level, either as deacons, overseers, elders, staff administrators, or as Eph. 4:11 gift ministry equippers.
4. COMPASSION: A Sense of Compassion and Caring Generosity (Acts 11:23, 30; 4:32-37; Acts 13:2).
- Acts 11:22-24 - 22 Then news of these things came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent out Barnabas to go as far as Antioch. 23 When he came and had seen the grace of God, he was glad, and encouraged them all that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord. 24 For he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith…(NKJV).
The Antioch church was a giving church. Paul taught in Acts 20:35 that “it is more blessed to give than to receive.” Perhaps he learned the joy of this at Antioch when he was associated with Barnabas, who was known as the Son of Encouragement (Acts 4:36). Barnabas, identified as the “son of encouragement,” exemplified a humble, sacrificial and generous heart (Acts 4:32-37).
- Acts 4:32-37 - 32 Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common. … 34 Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for all who were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold, 35 and laid them at the apostles' feet; and they distributed to each as anyone had need. 36 And Joses, who was also named Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated Son of Encouragement), a Levite of the country of Cyprus, 37 having land, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles' feet (NKJV).
Barnabas was a “good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith” (11:24). We are told that in his heart “he was glad” when he saw the evidence of God’s grace in people, and that he “encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts” (Acts 11:23). May the “Barnabas Spirit” increase in every congregation and in every leader!
All ministries should exist for the edification and encouragement of each and every person. Then each one will be encouraged and have a felt sense and real perception that they are being cared for. People are more important than details, procedures, legalities, or the exercise of arbitrary principles.
5. Radical Identification with Christ (Acts 11:19-26, 13:2).
- Acts 11:19-21 – Some came to Antioch… 19 preaching the word…. 20…some preaching the Lord Jesus. 21 And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number believed and turned to the Lord. à 11:24 - … and a great many people were added to the Lord. à 11:26 …for a whole year they assembled with the church and taught a great many people. And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch. à13:2 – They ministered to the Lord and fasted … (NKJV).
Notice the phrases such as “Lord Jesus,” “the Lord’s hand,” “they turned to the Lord,” “a great many people added,” “people added to the Lord” abound in this passage. Notice some particular characteristics of those at Antioch who developed a radical identification with Jesus as Christ.
a) They turned to the Lord (11:21). At the preaching of Christ, they turned to the Lord. There was a true turning. There was true repentance, a change of mind-set, turning from a worldly view to a kingdom view.
b) They purposed in heart to continue with the Lord (11:23). When Barnabas was sent up by the apostles from Jerusalem to help the new believers, “he came and had seen the grace of God; he was glad and encouraged them all that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord.”
c) They were willing to be taught (11:26). Later, when Barnabas brought up Saul to work with him, “for a whole year they assembled with the church and taught a great many people.”
d) They were genuine Christians, “Christ-Ones.” The result, “the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.”
The critical foundation for believers is the foundation of Christ.
- I Cor. 3:10-11, By the grace of God, I have laid a foundation as an expert builder and someone else is building on it. But each one should be careful how he builds. For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Christ.
Christ must be the center of the congregation. Not programs or personalities, not procedures, not proprieties, but Christ, the reality and presence of Christ. Everything we do must reflect Him, His nature and character. Otherwise we lose integrity. Their life, worship, and leadership identity was unto the Lord. They would seek guidance as they worshipped the Lord (13:2).
6. TEACHING: Prophetic Preaching and Thoughtful Teaching (Acts 11:26; 13:1; 15:35).
- Acts 11:25-26 - 25 Then Barnabas departed for Tarsus to seek Saul. 26 And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for a whole year they assembled with the church and taught a great many people. à Acts 13:1 - Now in the church that was at Antioch there were certain prophets and teachers… à 15:35 - Paul and Barnabas also remained in Antioch, teaching and preaching the word of the Lord, with many others also (NKJV).
The people and leaders are committed to the whole counsel of God and to a preaching and teaching of the Word that imparts vision, understanding and motivation for the congregation. The Antioch model was one of plurality. Not just one voice, but mutuality, a plurality, a consensus of “voice” to the congregation. There was a discipleship track for new believers to pursue. The goal was to raise up a congregation or, better yet, an army of disciplined believers. There is no true teaching until true learning has occurred.
7. WORSHIP: Expressive Dynamic Worship (Acts 13:2-3).
- Acts 13:2-3 - 2 As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3 Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away (NKJV).
“While they were worshipping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said ‘Set apart Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them’ (13:2). True worship of God requires the centrality of Christ’s Lordship, allows room for the voice and working of the Holy Spirit, and exhibits submission to the expressed will of God - all of this in the midst of body-life in the congregation and leadership team.
Psalm 36:1-12 reveals the earmarks of a congregation that has learned to allow the Spirit of Christ to dominate and flood the worship, where the Holy Spirit is allowed to speak and the congregation allowed to listen and respond. It is the dividing line between the wicked, egocentric and proud (Ps. 36:1-4, 12) and those who find refuge in the shadow of God’s wings, feast on the abundance of God’s house, and drink at the fountain of life (36:5-11).
- Ps 36:1-12 - 1 An oracle within my heart concerning the transgression of the wicked: there is no fear of God before his eyes. 2 For he flatters himself in his own eyes, when he finds out his iniquity and when he hates. 3 The words of his mouth are wickedness and deceit; he has ceased to be wise and to do good. 4 He devises wickedness on his bed; he sets himself in a way that is not good; he does not abhor evil. 5 Your mercy, O Lord, is in the heavens; Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds. 6 Your righteousness is like the great mountains; Your judgments are a great deep; O Lord, You preserve man and beast. 7 How precious is Your lovingkindness, O God! Therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of Your wings. 8 They are abundantly satisfied with the fullness of Your house, and You give them drink from the river of Your pleasures. 9 For with You is the fountain of life; in Your light we see light. 10 Oh, continue Your lovingkindness to those who know You, and Your righteousness to the upright in heart. 11 Let not the foot of pride come against me, and let not the hand of the wicked drive me away. 12 There the workers of iniquity have fallen; they have been cast down and are not able to rise (NKJV).
Worship is the corporate activity of abiding in the vine (John 14:1-2). “How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity” (Psalm 133:1). It causes the flowing of the precious anointing oil.
8. PROPHETIC: Spirit–Anointed Openness to the Spirit’s Leading (Acts 11:27-30; 13:2).
The Antioch church was a praying church. Furthermore, it is apparent that the church believed, practiced, and received the gifts of the Spirit. Clearly the leadership nucleus at Antioch was open to the Holy Spirit.
- Acts 11:27-29 - 27 And in these days prophets came from Jerusalem to Antioch. 28 Then one of them, named Agabus, stood up and showed by the Spirit that there was going to be a great famine throughout all the world, which also happened in the days of Claudius Caesar. 29 Then the disciples, each according to his ability, determined to send relief to the brethren dwelling in Judea (NKJV).
- Acts 13:2 - As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”
Here are two instances in which the leadership of the Antioch church responded to and obeyed the leading of the Holy Spirit. They listened to the prophets - in this case, Agabus who came from Jerusalem along with other prophets. They listened to the voice of the Holy Spirit and sent out apostles. The Antioch church knew how to touch God in both their individual and corporate life. The leadership team led the way.
9. EQUIPPING: Multiplying Disciples and Leadership (Acts 11:26; 13:1-2).
- Acts 11:26 - … they assembled with the church and taught a great many people. à Acts 13:1 - Now in the church that was at Antioch there were certain prophets and teachers…
- Acts 14:21-28 - 21 And when they had preached the gospel to that city and made many disciples, they returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch, 22 strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and saying, “We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God.” 23 So when they had appointed elders in every church, and prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord in whom they had believed. 24 And after they had passed through Pisidia, they came to Pamphylia. 25 Now when they had preached the word in Perga, they went down to Attalia. 26 From there they sailed to Antioch, where they had been commended to the grace of God for the work which they had completed. 27 Now when they had come and gathered the church together, they reported all that God had done with them, and that He had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles. 28 So they stayed there a long time with the disciples (NKJV).
In harmony with Ephesians 4:11-12, the church at Antioch was an equipping church. They believed every member had a role. Leaders in an apostolic church must not suppress those coming forth but encourage, edify, and equip them to the ministry, releasing them progressively into the ministry. The Antioch church believed in the laying on of hands for commissioning individuals to kingdom ministry.
10. PLURALITY: Shared Leadership and Word Ministry (Acts 11:25; 13:1-3; 14:28).
- Acts 11:25-26 – 25 Then Barnabas departed for Tarsus to seek Saul. 26 And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for a whole year they assembled with the church and taught a great many people
- Acts 13:1 - Now in the church that was at Antioch there were certain prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul (NKJV).
- Acts 14:27-28 - 27 Now when they had come and gathered the church together, they reported all that God had done with them, and that He had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles. 28 So they stayed there a long time with the disciples (NKJV).
- Acts 14:32 - Now Judas and Silas, themselves being prophets also, exhorted and strengthened the brethren with many words.
- Acts 15:2-5 - 2 Therefore, when Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and dispute with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas and certain others of them should go up to Jerusalem, to the apostles and elders, about this question. 3 So, being sent on their way by the church, they passed through Phoenicia and Samaria, describing the conversion of the Gentiles; and they caused great joy to all the brethren. 4 And when they had come to Jerusalem, they were received by the church and the apostles and the elders; and they reported all things that God had done with them (NKJV).
- Acts 15:35 - Paul and Barnabas also remained in Antioch, teaching and preaching the word of the Lord, with many others also (NKJV).
“Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people” (11:25). “At the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers” (13:1). As they were worshipping, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart to me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them” (13:2). Later, Saul and Barnabas returned and “stayed a long time with the disciples at Antioch” (14:28). We see also in Acts 14:32 that Silas stayed in Antioch and became part of the plurality of gift ministries.
The Antioch leadership model in Antioch is that of a plurality of leaders functioning together in collegial oneness, diversity and strength. This is quite different from the American model of just one senior leader or senior couple. Plurality is a strong model. Plurality is strength to the congregation and its people. It is a preferred model, one that creates less one-man dependency and “hero-worship” (a pagan, mythological concept), but allows for a team of champions and those in mutuality of submission to come forth. It provides for a stronger model of synergy and diversity of gifts, motives and inspiration. It supplies an enlarged pool of resources for the immediate congregational ministry and any extended apostolic work that flows out of the congregation.
A plurality of leaders, elders, teachers and prophets ministered the word at Antioch. Their diverse cultural identities and names are listed in Acts 13:1. Later, after Paul and Barnabas were sent out to do apostolic work and they had returned home, it could be rightfully stated that “apostles” were added to the plurality list of leaders. When some in the leadership team were sent off to minister in other churches, “Paul and Barnabas remained at Antioch, where they and many others taught and preached the word of the Lord” (15:35).
11. APOSTOLIC: Antioch Was an Apostolic Base Church (Acts 13:1-3; 15:32).
The church at Antioch was an apostolic base community with a “missional” perspective, and this involved a “going” and “coming” ministry beyond the parameters of the local church. There was an interactive teamwork between apostles and elders.
- Acts 13:1-4 - 1 Now in the church that was at Antioch there were certain prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. 2 As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3 Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away. 4 So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia, and from there they sailed to Cyprus. 5 And when they arrived in Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews (NKJV).
Later, “when they had preached the word...they sailed back to Antioch, where they had been committed to the grace of God for the work they had now completed. On arriving there, they gathered the church together and reported all that God had done through them.
- Acts 14:24-28 – 24 And after they had passed through Pisidia, they came to Pamphylia. 25 Now when they had preached the word in Perga, they went down to Attalia. 26 From there they sailed to Antioch, where they had been commended to the grace of God for the work which they had completed. 27 Now when they had come and gathered the church together, they reported all that God had done with them, and that He had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles. 28 So they stayed there a long time with the disciples (NKJV).
At the time of the Acts 15 Council, a serious doctrinal dispute had developed in the church at Antioch over issues of the law and faith, so “Paul and Barnabas were appointed...to go up to Jerusalem to see the apostles and elders” (Acts 15:2, 4). Galatians 1:18-19 states that Paul went up to Jerusalem to get acquainted with Peter and James, the Lord’s brother. Galatians 2:8 records that 14 years later, Paul and Barnabas went up to Jerusalem to meet James, Peter and John, those reputed to be pillars.” An interesting and necessary dynamic develops. A proper interaction between trans-local apostles (sent ones) and local leaders (elders) will bring balance, enlarged insight and forward progress. It seems obvious that Paul and Barnabas were exposed to an active model of interaction between elders and apostles, part of a team of apostles, prophets, teachers and elders.
After the Acts 15 Council, certain ones were sent off to convey the results of the council to the churches. When they had traveled to all the churches on the way and had come to Antioch, while Judas returned to Jerusalem, Silas remained behind at Antioch and joined with Paul and Barnabas and all the leaders in teaching and preaching the Word.
- Acts 15:30-35 - 30 So when they were sent off, they came to Antioch; and when they had gathered the multitude together, they delivered the letter. 31 When they had read it, they rejoiced over its encouragement. 32 Now Judas and Silas, themselves being prophets also, exhorted and strengthened the brethren with many words. 33 And after they had stayed there for a time, they were sent back with greetings from the brethren to the apostles. 34 However, it seemed good to Silas to remain there. 35 Paul and Barnabas also remained in Antioch, teaching and preaching the word of the Lord, with many others also (NKJV).
Later, Paul and Barnabas determined they should go out to the various churches and encourage them. Paul took Silas and Barnabas took Mark.
Barnabas took Mark and sailed for Cyprus (Acts 15:39). Paul chose Silas and left, commended by the brothers to the grace of God, and he went through out Syria and Cilicia strengthening the churches” (Acts 15:41). This is a pattern of leaders “coming and going.” They not only contribute their strengths and gifting in the midst of their home church, out of the abundance of their gifts and spiritual leadership, but also they helped supply what was needed for other churches in the region and beyond.
12. LEADERSHIP: Lead Person Leadership (Acts 15:13-19).
A question has often lingered in the realm of local church leadership. Should there be a single pastor or a single, senior leader, who has position, power, and preeminence over other elders and leaders? It seems, throughout history, that in a local assembly, normally one person has become the set man, point person or spokesman for the resident eldership. Ephesians 4:
- Ps 2:6 - Yet I have set My King on My holy hill of Zion (NKJV).
- Eph 4:11-12 - 11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 12 for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ (NKJV).
- Titus 1:5 - For this reason I left you in Crete, that you should set in order the things that are lacking, and appoint elders in every city as I commanded you (NKJV).
Barnabas was the early point-person leader at Antioch before he brought up Saul to serve alongside him; soon he brought Saul to work with him. There does not seem to be a clear pattern of one leader per congregation, as is often called the “set man.” The closest we come to that possibility is the story of James in the church at Jerusalem. It seems that James may have been such a point person, interacting with such apostles as Peter and Paul. “When they [Paul and Barnabas] had finished speaking, James spoke up; ‘Brothers, listen to me. Simon has described.... The prophets are in agreement with this (scripture quoted). It is my judgment, therefore, that we should do the following...’” (e.g., a conclusion and consensus declared) (Acts 15:13-19). In Acts 21:18, Paul and his team arrived in Jerusalem, and “they went to see James and all the elders with him.” Peter led the apostolic mission to the Jews. Paul led the apostolic mission to the Gentiles. James provided leadership for the congregation at Jerusalem. Barnabas initially provided leadership for the congregation at Antioch. However, it seems emphatically that James was surrounded by elders and interacted with the apostles for the sake of the larger mission. For instance, in Acts 15:4, when Paul and Barnabas came “to Jerusalem, they were received by the church and the apostles and the elders,” (15:5), as “the apostles and elders came together to consider matters” (15:6). The result was that “it pleased the apostles and elders, with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas, namely, Judas who was also named Barsabbas, and Silas, leading men among the brethren” (Acts 15:22).The pattern of plurality is emphasized in I Thessalonians chapter 5:
- 1 Thess 5:12-13 - 12 And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, 13 and to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. Be at peace among yourselves (NKJV).
- 1 Tim 5:17 - Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine (NKJV).
Written 1987, Thurlow J. Switzer
Biography: Thurlow J. Switzer is President and Director of Adventure Teaching Ministries, specializing in 6-8 hour leadership training seminars and family life, marriage and parenting seminars. He is an apostolic pastor of Northgate Community Church, Gaithersburg, Maryland; the founder and president of the Maryland Federation of Church Schools, active in church and home school issues; and, previously he has served as President of Messiah Biblical University of Washington D. C. Thurlow currently serves and leads Living Grace Ministries, an apostolic sphere of leaders and congregations, with extensive apostolic ministry overseas.
Biography: Thurlow J. Switzer is President and Director of Adventure Teaching Ministries, specializing in 6-8 hour leadership training seminars and family life, marriage and parenting seminars. He is an apostolic pastor of Northgate Community Church, Gaithersburg, Maryland; the founder and president of the Maryland Federation of Church Schools, active in church and home school issues; and, previously he has served as President of Messiah Biblical University of Washington D. C. Thurlow currently serves and leads Living Grace Ministries, an apostolic sphere of leaders and congregations, with extensive apostolic ministry overseas.