THE EARLY CHURCH — EPISODE 10: THE CHURCH AT ANTIOCH
Based on Acts 11:19-30, 13:1-3
Series: The Early Church | Episode 10 of 10
Target audience: Kids ages 7-15
We've made it to the final episode of this series — and what a way to end. Because this is the story of the church that changed the world.
After Stephen was killed and persecution scattered believers everywhere, some ended up in Antioch — the third-largest city in the Roman Empire. Massive, diverse, bustling with people from every background you can imagine.
And here's the bold part — these scattered believers didn't just talk to Jewish people. They shared my message with Greeks. Gentiles. And those people believed — in huge numbers.
The church in Jerusalem sent Barnabas — remember him? He arrived, saw what God was doing, and encouraged everyone to stay true. Then he found Saul and brought him to Antioch. For an entire year, those two taught this explosive new church.
And here's a detail that seems small but is actually HUGE. It was in Antioch that my followers were first called "Christians." The believers were so identified with me — my teachings, my character, my mission — that people said, "Those are the Christ-ones. The Christians."
Two thousand years later, that name still defines my followers.
But the story doesn't stop there.
The church's leaders were diverse — Barnabas from Cyprus, Simeon called Niger, Lucius from North Africa, Manaen who grew up in King Herod's household, and Saul from Tarsus. Different countries, different cultures — united by one thing: me.
Then came the moment that launched everything.
While they were worshipping and fasting, the Holy Spirit spoke: "Set apart Barnabas and Saul for the work I have called them to."
They didn't argue. They laid hands on them, prayed, and sent them out. The first missionaries — launched. From that sending, my message would spread across Asia Minor, into Europe, and eventually to the entire world.
This is what the church is meant to be — a launching pad. Not a building where people get comfortable. A place where people worship, hear my voice, and GO. Into your school. Your neighborhood. The world.
This series started with the Holy Spirit falling like fire. It ends with the church on fire — carrying that flame to the ends of the earth.
Now it's your turn. Go.
