
In Acts 13:1–4, we see the church in Antioch listening to the Holy Spirit, setting apart Paul and Barnabas, and sending them out to proclaim the gospel—marking the beginning of the first missionary journey. This moment reflects a church that doesn’t just gather, but goes, fueled by a vision to see the name of Jesus made known among the nations. In Acts 14:24–28, Paul and Barnabas return and report all that God had done through them and how He had opened a door of faith to the Gentiles. The sending church became the celebrating church—rejoicing in how God advanced His kingdom through their obedience. This is the heart of the Antioch Initiative: to be a church that listens, sends, and celebrates as God works through us to reach the world.