Christians
Day 503, Saturday, Dec. 27
Acts 11:19-30
Paul and Barnabas teaming up to preach at Antioch has significance beyond two powerul preachers joining forces—it also represents a unity between Paul’s mission and the leaders of the church at Jerusalem that will not always be present.
This year that Paul and Barnabas spend with the church at Antioch is also significant for giving the Christ-followers a new name. “The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.”
We take the term for granted, but its use represents another step away from the church being considered to be just another sect of Judaism. Followers of Jesus are on their way to becoming a separate religion, distinct from the religion practiced by Jesus himself.
Another step toward the formalization of the movement that will become the Christian church is the collection of money for the relief of the church at Judea. “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.”
This offering, along with the growing idea that the church at Jerusalem has a special role in sending out leaders (like Barnabas), is the beginning of the church seeing itself as a connected institution rather than just isolated communities of believers who follow the same rabbi.

Saturday meditation

Psalms 50:1-6
The Mighty One, God, the Lord, speaks and summons the earth from the rising of the sun to where it sets. From Zion, perfect in beauty, God shines forth. Our God comes and will not be silent; a fire devours before him, and around him a tempest rages. He summons the heavens above, and the earth, that he may judge his people: “Gather to me this consecrated people, who made a covenant with me by sacrifice.” And the heavens proclaim his righteousness, for he is a God of justice.

Prayer focus
God, make your church one across the whole earth.

-Rev. Mark Fleming