In Acts 11:19-30, we read about the church at Antioch. It was a very vibrant congregation, one that would be a good example for any church to follow. Let’s look at what was going on there and see what we can learn from the church at Antioch.

First, the congregation consisted of people who had been changed by the gospel message. They had believed in the crucified and resurrected Jesus and this faith had caused them to be transformed from what they had previously been. When Barnabas arrived at Antioch, he “saw what the grace of God had done” (v.23). A healthy church is filled with people who have been changed by the grace of God.

Second, the church at Antioch was encouraged. Barnabas, who was called “the son of encouragement” (Acts 4:36), was glad to see what God had done there and “…encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts” (v.23). We all need encouragement. There are so many discouraging things that go on in the world around us that we need to be lifted up by people like Barnabas. Consider all the people who have encouraged you along the way in your Christian life. Now think about how you could follow their example and encourage those around you. A church with encouragers is a delightful church to worship and serve in.

Next, we see that the church at Antioch was a growing church. Twice in this chapter it says that a great number of people believed in and came to the Lord (vv.21,24). We must never lose sight of our mission to make disciples. A church that is reaching other people for Jesus keeps its members excited about the work of the kingdom.

Then we notice that this congregation was a teaching church. “Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, and when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people. The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.” (vv.25-26). It is a shame to see such a woeful lack of biblical knowledge today. In an age of ignorance and false doctrine, we need to be diligent about teaching our church members the truth of God’s word. No church can be a vibrant congregation without a healthy dose of the Bible.

Finally, we read that the church at Antioch was a generous congregation. When they heard about a severe famine, they decided to take up an offering to give to the needy brothers and sisters in Christ who were living in Judea (vv.27-30).

This is a pretty good list of things to do if we want our churches to be healthy and vibrant. May God bless our efforts to do these things!