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Antioch of Syria

# 1 The Word of God grew and multiplied and also much persecution. Many of the disciples were driven from Jerusalem and the city of Antioch in Syria was gaining importance in the early church. When this was reported at Jerusalem, Barnabas was sent to Antioch for a special mission. He sought Saul (later called Paul) in the city of Tarsus and Saul returned with Barnabas to Antioch. Many great things were happening at Antioch and in this city the disciples of Jesus were first called "Christians".

While Barnabas and Saul were evangelizing in Antioch certain prophets came down from Jerusalem. One of them, named Agabus, announced that a time of famine was about to occur (probably 46 A.D.). They prepared for the famine and during this time and the Christians at Antioch sent "a contribution for the relief of the brethren living in Judea. And this they did, sending it in charge of Barnabas and Saul to the elders" (Acts 11:22-30). After this Saul and Barnabas returned to Antioch and brought with them another helper, John, whose surname was Mark (Mark 12:25).

Later Barnabas and some other prophets and teachers received a Word from the Lord, "Now separate to Me, Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them". So the disciples in Antioch "fasted and prayed and laid their hands on them, they sent them away" They began their missionary journey and headed for the port in Seleucia to set sail from Syria.