John 15:5 I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.

 

When Barnabas arrived in Antioch he found a thriving Church community of believers in Christ. He had been sent by the Apostles in Jerusalem to help with the evangelistic effort in Antioch. Speaking of Barnabas, Luke wrote Who, when he came, and had seen the Grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord. (Acts 11:23)

 

Antioch was a big city and prior to Nicholas bringing the Gospel there, the people were stricken with sin. However, Barnabas witnessed a great change in the lives of those who chose to follow Christ. He literally saw the Gospel at work in people! It was so evident it could not be denied.

 

Barnabas encouraged the people to hold fast to their faith in Christ and don’t let go. This is what changed them and this is what would keep them. Barnabas knew that if they drifted from their faith in Christ and Him Crucified, they would fall away themselves. That’s why he exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord. (Acts 11:23)

 

To gain a full understanding of this statement we must consider two words: PURPOSE and CLEAVE. The word PURPOSE in the Greek language is prothesis. It means “a setting forth, or something that is exposed before God.” The word CLEAVE in the Greek language is proskillao. It means to adhere to; to glue to.

 

Barnabas’ message to the Church in Antioch was for them to set their hearts toward Christ and stick to Him like glue and never let go. This was to be their purpose in life which was 100% exposed before God Almighty.

 

What a word! What a message for the Church then and now! Jesus said it! John wrote His Words in the 15th Chapter of his Book. I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. (John 15:5)

 

 

Abide in Christ. He will…...….turn the tide……….in your life.

 

Stuck like glue!         Doreen

 

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