An Evangelistic Church (The Antioch Church)
Keith Malcomson teaches that the Antioch church exemplifies an evangelistic church birthed through persecution, calling believers to embrace evangelism as a core mark of their faith and mission.
This sermon focuses on the birth of the Antioch Church, highlighting the importance of evangelism amidst persecution, the breaking of religious traditions to reach all people, and the preaching of the Lord Jesus Christ. The church was birthed by normal believers who faced hardships but saw a great number believe and turn to the Lord due to the hand of God working through them.
Sermon Outline
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I
- Introduction to the Antioch church and its significance
- The vision for LCC drawn from biblical example
- The importance of evangelism as a church mark
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II
- Evangelism birthed amidst growing persecution
- The scattering of believers from Jerusalem
- The role of persecution in spreading the gospel
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III
- The cultural and moral backdrop of Antioch city
- The diversity and challenges faced by the early church
- The believers’ response to persecution without self-pity
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IV
- The believers’ proactive evangelism while fleeing
- The geographical spread of the gospel to Phoenicia and Cyprus
- The call for modern believers to emulate this evangelistic zeal
Key Quotes
“The Word of God washes us. It renews our minds and I'd like to do that for a bit even if I don't go too far into this tonight.” — Keith Malcomson
“This evangelism that birthed the church was birthed amidst growing persecution.” — Keith Malcomson
“The mark of these persecuted believers was not self-preservation or self-pity. Woe is me. They were unhindered in evangelism.” — Keith Malcomson
Application Points
- Believers should actively share the gospel even in difficult or hostile environments.
- Church vision must be grounded in Scripture and the Great Commission.
- Persecution and trials can be used by God to expand His kingdom and should not deter evangelistic efforts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main focus of the Antioch church in this sermon?
The Antioch church is highlighted as a model evangelistic church birthed through persecution and committed to sharing the gospel widely.
Why was persecution important in the birth of the Antioch church?
Persecution caused believers to scatter, which God used to spread the gospel beyond Jerusalem, leading to the formation of the Antioch church.
How does Keith Malcomson view the source of vision for the church?
He believes the church’s vision must come from the Bible and Christ’s commission, not from dreams, gifts, or prophecies.
What attitude did the early believers have despite persecution?
They were marked by a lack of self-pity and a strong desire to evangelize even while suffering great loss and hardship.
How can modern believers apply this message?
By embracing evangelism as a core part of their faith and being willing to share the gospel regardless of difficulties or cultural challenges.