As you may now realize, the Book of Acts contains many examples of what to expect when we walk in Holiness. Has FATHER changed in HIS Divine Intent for increasing the Kingdom of GOD on earth since the first century? NO!
The fruitfulness of those walking in Holiness is accurately described by Luke as he recorded the events and results throughout the land. Why aren’t we seeing and hearing of such dramatic true spiritual growth in our times? The problem isn’t FATHER withholding HIS Hand.
Luke recorded by The Holy Spirit in Acts chapter 11:
19 Because of the persecution triggered by Stephen’s death in Jerusalem, many of the believers were scattered. Some reached as far as the coast of Lebanon, the island of Cyprus, and Antioch of Syria, but they were still only preaching The Word to Jews.
20 However, some of the believers from Cyprus and Cyrene, who had come to Antioch in Syria, preached to the non-Jews living there, proclaiming the Message of salvation in the Lord Jesus.
21 The Mighty Power of The Lord was with them as they ministered, and a large number of people believed and turned their hearts to the Lord.
We see that when GOD pours out HIS SPIRIT and HIS Hand is upon the work of the church, the church grows numerically quantitatively hundreds and at times thousands, are added to the community of believers! Nowadays, some churches use human tactics to build their congregation by soulish means. Refreshments in the foyer, loud music with smoke and flashing lights, and other devices do not reflect The Hand of THE LORD.
22 News of what was happening in Antioch reached the church of Jerusalem, so the apostles sent Barnabas to Antioch as their emissary.
23 When he got there and witnessed for himself God’s marvelous grace, he was enthused and overjoyed. He encouraged the believers to remain faithful and cling to the Lord with passionate hearts.
24 Barnabas was a good man, full of the Spirit of Holiness, and he exuded a life of faith. Because of his ministry even more crowds of people were brought to the Lord!
Barnabas walked in Holiness and in faith! Isn’t that what has been lacking in most ministries today? In the 1970’s, the focus was on faith, yet many ministries did not emphasize Holiness. Some were brought down by sex scandals, misuse of finances, and other unrighteous acts. On the other hand, Barnabas was above reproach.
25 Barnabas left for Tarsus to find Saul and bring him back to Antioch.
26 Together Saul and Barnabas ministered there for a full year, equipping the growing church and teaching the vast number of new converts. It was in Antioch that the followers of Jesus were first revealed as “anointed ones.” (Christians)
Barnabas did not try to exalt himself in any manner. He sought out Saul (who is Paul) to assist in ministering to the vast number of new converts. He did not seek out a reputation for himself. He was a Holy, acceptable living sacrifice unto GOD for the benefit of others. We are to be the same! The fruitfulness of our walk in Holiness will be seen by all.