For June 6, 2026
The Driving Force of the Gospel by Greg Holmes, D.MIN – Director of Missions serving 17 churches
THE CHURCH AT ANTIOCH became the first church outside of Jerusalem that developed a powerful base from which evangelism spread. Its inception had roots in the events surrounding the martyrdom of Stephen. Luke records, “Now those who had been scattered by the persecution that broke out when Stephen was killed traveled as far as Antioch, and began to speak to Greeks also, telling them the good news about the Lord Jesus. The Lord’s hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord.” (Acts 11:19-21) The Jerusalem church sent Barnabas to Antioch. “When he arrived and saw what the grace of God had done, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts. A great number of people were brought to the Lord.” (Acts 11:23-24)