Because of the persecution.

Acts 11:19-30, Now those who were scattered because of the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia and Cyprus and Antioch, speaking the word to no one except Jews. But there were some of them, men of Cyprus and Cyrene, who on coming to Antioch spoke to the Hellenists also, preaching the Lord Jesus. And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number who believed turned to the Lord. When he came and saw the grace of God, he was glad, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast purpose, for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord. So Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. For a whole year they met with the church and taught a great many people. And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians. Now in these days prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch. And one of them named Agabus stood up and foretold by the Spirit that there would be a great famine over all the world (this took place in the days of Claudius). So the disciples determined, everyone according to his ability, to send relief to the brothers living in Judea. And they did so, sending it to the elders by the hand of Barnabas and Saul.

The amazing results of the persecution that started with the death of Stephen now bring the gospel to the distant city of Antioch, where the church begins to flourish among the gentiles. Barnabas brings Saul back from Tarsus and the two of them spend a year teaching. As they grow in faith, they recognize the needs of believers back in Jerusalem because of the persecution and the great famine and send relief to them. Their faith has brought them not only salvation but also practical concern for others. Are we focused only on ourselves or do we reach out to others to share our blessings?

Give us Your leading to share the blessings that we have with those who are in need!

ESV Lectionary