MONDAY June 19, 2023

The Call of a Missionary

Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch) and Saul. While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.
Acts 13:1-3 NIV

In the church of Antioch, there was a mixed group of people who prayed and fasted––prophets and teachers. Some of them were Jews, and others were from South Africa. Interestingly, Manaen was a friend of Herod the tetrarch. Somehow, he became converted to Christianity, and he received a called to be in the ministry. We see that they all exhibited spiritual gifts that God had given to each one of them.

God, in a very unique way, called Barnabas and Saul to become missionaries. It came about as the elders in the church fasted, prayed, and waited upon God to speak to them. The Holy Spirit called them to go. I am sure a word of prophecy was uttered as the men laid hands on Barnabas and Saul. This is when they received direction and a specific call. That is how God works. Using the gift of teaching, Barnabas and Saul would preach the Word to the lost and teach converts.

The gift of teaching is used to help young believers grow to full maturity. When Jesus commanded His disciples to go and make disciples, He also included: “...teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you...” (Matthew 28:20). The Great Commission is a vision that churches must catch if they are to reach a lost world for Jesus Christ.

Most believers will remain in a home church, but not everyone will stay. Some men and women will be called by the Holy Spirit to go! He will direct them to a specific area to begin a new ministry. However, a word of caution––if the Holy Spirit has not called someone to go, and they leave without God’s anointing or direction in their lives, He will not go before them! Very important factor––always be led by the Holy Spirit.

I have but one candle of life to burn, and I would rather burn it out in a land filled with darkness than in a land flooded with light.
~John Keith Falconer~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!