DCLM Daily Manna Tuesday 7 May 2024
TOPIC: The Radiant Life
TEXT: Acts 11:19-26 (KJV)
19 Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only.
20 And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus.
21 And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord.
22 Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch.
23 Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord.
24 For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord.
25 Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul:
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.
KEY VERSE
“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.”
Acts 11:26
DCLM Daily Manna Tuesday 7 May 2024 MESSAGE
It is easy for some persons passing through a crisis to lose perspective and identity. They are thrown off balance in the process, readily compromising and abandoning cherished faith, beliefs and character. They seek community approval and short-term answers or solutions to the challenges confronting them. But, often, this approach is futile as it does not go to the root of the matter.
This was not the same with the Early Church, which did not lose focus despite the killing of Stephen and the persecution that followed. Rather than getting depressed or allowing the situation to discourage them, they donned the garment of the radiant spirit. Being outlawed and harassed in Jerusalem did not stop them from evangelising. They travelled to distant lands to preach Christ, which led to a great revival in Antioch.
READ DCLM Daily Manna Monday 6 May 2024 – The Depth of His Mercy
The glittering and shining conduct of the brethren in the Antioch church made the people address them, for the first time, as “Christians”. Those around them watched them live exactly like the Saviour. They were meek and remained unperturbed by their hostile environment. There was no retaliation for wrongs done to them. They displayed love among themselves, renounced worldly attractions and had a quiet disposition that showed that they were not of this world. They were heavenly-minded, waiting for the promised return of their Lord.
Moments of trials and temptations ought to bring out the stars in us. Indeed, our comportment should preach Jesus to our neighbours. Wherever we find ourselves, dreary conditions of the environment should not drag us into helplessness. As we stand firm and true to God, He will visit us and through us draw other people to Himself.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: For the true Christian, crisis provides a chance to show Christ’s lifestyle in us.
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 1 Samuel 21-22
