Matthew 6:20-21 Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in Heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

 

The year was 41 A.D. and the Good News of the Gospel of Christ was spreading like wildfire throughout Antioch and the surrounding area. This evangelistic effort began with Nicholas who was one of the original seven Deacons in the First Church in Jerusalem. Nicholas was originally a Gentile from Antioch but moved to Jerusalem and became a proselyte Jew.

 

Due to the persecution of the Church after the stoning of Stephen, Nicholas fled to his hometown of Antioch where he preached the Salvation Message, and many people were Saved and born again. And the Hand of the Lord was with them: And a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord. (Acts 11:21)

 

When word of the Church's growth in Antioch got back to Jerusalem, they sent Barnabas to see what was going on. Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the Church which was in Jerusalem: And they sent forth Barnabas that he should go as far as Antioch. (Acts 11:22)

 

Although the headquarters for the Church was still located in Jerusalem, Church growth was taking place elsewhere. God had a great Plan for this man named Barnabas. He was not one of the Apostles but his role in the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ was far greater than that of the Apostles in Jerusalem.

 

This shows us that positions with titles mean little to nothing in the Kingdom of God. People seeking a title may receive a title by man but those who seek the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness without a title are far greater in the Eyes of God. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus spoke a warning about this. Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in Heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. (Matthew 6:20-21) Those who have ears, let them hear.

 

 

The Word of God will…..…….turn the tide

 

Laying up treasures in Heaven,         Doreen

 

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