Relationships are messy, even as Christians. At times, we feel great joy and unity in our relationships, but other times are difficult and confusing. How do we make sense of our times of unity and conflict? Today's passage explores a great time of unity and a sad time of conflict.

How are we saved before a holy and loving God? Is it by works of the law or by the grace of Christ? This is one of the most important questions we can ask and understand, and it makes all the difference. Sadly, we forget the grace of Christ and can easily become legalistic or legal-ish if we are not careful, and that is a dangerous place to be. Let's look at the Jerusalem Council and their call for Gospel unity.

n Acts 14:22, the Apostle Paul said, "We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God." The Christian life involves enduring suffering and trials. How do we actually stay faithful to Jesus when we are suffering? In this chapter, Paul and Barnabas endured much for the sake of Christ. Let's learn from their example.

With perfect attendance, a student could spend 150 hours a year with their youth pastor whereas on average they spend 2, 184 hours at home a year. Matthew 7 challenges us to build on a solid foundation and our homes should be the leading influence in faith foundation in our children.

Acts 13:52 says, "And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit."

This is surprising because they were just persecuted and kicked out of a town for preaching Jesus. How could they have joy in the midst of it? How can we have joy in our lives, especially during hard times? Acts 13:13-52 gives us several ways.

The Church in Antioch sends Paul and Barnabas on their 1st mission trip for Jesus.

What can we learn today from their missions experience then?

Is it possible we could face sorcery and syncretism yet be filled with the Spirit to discern and confront it?

What does a healthy church look like in Scripture? How can we be that kind of healthy church today? The Church in Antioch was a dynamic church, focused on Jesus Christ, multiplying His impact. May we be that kind of church today for His glory.

Life can be overwhelming and feel hopeless at times--personally and politically. What are we to do when this happens? Acts 12 is an encouraging reminder of Jesus' leadership to the Early Church then and to us today in times of crisis.

This is an important question that is often influenced by our consumer culture.

But what does the Bible say about the ideal church? How can we be more like the Church in Antioch by the power of the Spirit? This passage helps answer these questions.