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For he was a good man (in God’s sight), and full of the Holy Ghost (prayed in tongues) and of
faith (studied the Word): and much people was added unto the Lord.

When a church emphasizes the grace of God, many people are born again. The church in
Antioch became the spiritual center for many years. Paul’s first three missionary journeys
began at Antioch.

Barnabas recognizes the need for good leadership in the church at Antioch. He does not return
to Jerusalem to ask Peter, James, or any other elder in Jerusalem to come to Antioch. Instead,
Barnabas travels to Tarsus and finds Paul, the man who had the greatest revelation of the grace
of God.

BARNABAS SEEKS FOR SAUL

Act 11:25 Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul:

Barnabas was not jealous of Paul’s superior knowledge and gifts. He was only interested in the
growth of the saints in Antioch.

Act 11:26 And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that
a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the
disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.

In his search for Paul, Barnabas is not supernaturally guided as in the case of Peter and
Cornelius. Barnabas seeks out Paul for himself. When Paul arrives in Antioch, he teaches the
people for one year.

New converts need teaching. The first teachings converts receive should establish them in the
grace of God. Teaching and training transforms converts into disciples.

The name “Christian” means Christlike. You do not become Christlike until you become a
disciple. The disciples were called Christians, but it was a derogatory term when first used by
Gentiles against believers.

THE OFFICE OF THE PROPHET

Act 11:27 And in these days came prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch.

The office of the prophet found in the New Testament is very similar to the prophet (or seer) of
the Old Testament. In the New Testament, God uses prophets to warn of the attacks of Satan
and to judge prophecy (1 Corinthians 14:9).

Act 11:28 And there stood up one of them named Agabus, and signified by the Spirit that there
should be great dearth throughout all the world: which came to pass in the days of Claudius
Caesar.

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