Universal Utterings

for May 13, 2025

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05-13-25 Acts 11 v2126 The Disciples of Antioch Were First Called Christians

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The Book of Acts Chapter 11 Verses 21 thru 26

21 The hand of the Lord was with them and a great number who believed turned to the Lord. 22 The news about them reached the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas [to go] to Antioch. 23 When he arrived and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced and encouraged them all to remain faithful to the Lord in firmness of heart, 24 for he was a good man, filled with the holy Spirit and faith. And a large number of people was added to the Lord. 25 Then he went to Tarsus to look for Saul, 26 and when he had found him he brought him to Antioch. For a whole year they met with the church and taught a large number of people, and it was in Antioch that the disciples were first called Christians.

In Acts 11:21-26, we witness a powerful movement of faith as many turn to the Lord in Antioch. The passage highlights the remarkable impact of the early disciples who, filled with the Holy Spirit, boldly preached the Gospel to the Hellenists. Their unwavering commitment to sharing God’s message led to a substantial number of converts. It’s significant to note that upon hearing of this growth, Barnabas was sent by the church in Jerusalem to investigate. Upon arrival, he was filled with joy at the sight of the grace of God at work and encouraged the new believers to remain faithful to the Lord with all their hearts. Here, the term Christians was first used to confirm upon those who spoke of Jesus as the Christ who Jesus would give Life Eternal to those who believe.

As we reflect on this scripture, we are reminded to embody the spirit of the disciples of Antioch. Their dedication to God and to one another set a powerful example for us today. They were not merely passive recipients of grace; they were active participants in God’s mission of love and redemption. Similarly, we are called to live out our faith with courage and enthusiasm, sharing the message of hope and salvation with others.

Barnabas, known for his encouragement, inspires us to foster an environment where we support and uplift each other in our spiritual journeys. In a world filled with challenges, it is essential to remain firm in our commitment to the Lord. Just as the believers in Antioch were urged to hold fast to their faith, we are encouraged to cultivate a heartfelt devotion to Jesus, exemplifying steadfastness in our walk with Him.

Let us strive to mirror the faithfulness of the disciples in Antioch, encouraging one another to remain rooted in our commitment to Christ. May we all be filled with grace, courage, and a fervent heart for the Lord. Amen.

Join me as we pray our daily prayer of forgiveness. The Lord’s Prayer.

At the Savior's command and formed by divine teaching, we dare to pray:

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. Deliver us, Lord, we pray, from every evil, graciously grant peace in our days, that, by the help of your mercy, we may be always free from sin and safe from all distress, as we await the blessed hope and the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ. For the kingdom, the power and the glory are yours now and forever.

I am sorry Lord. I believe You died and rose for me. Please forgive me as I forgive others. I share You as my Lord and Savior seeking to live your Will in all things. Prayers for wife Toni and my mother Betty pray for our children especially our two oldest Alexandra & Allen Son in Law Mark Stern; Julian, Gabriel and Jeffrey and our grandchildren Oliver, Julian and Elliott. We pray for those we’ve said we’d pray for and those who’ve asked us to pray for them. We pray for the dying as we do each day Lord give them peace in their last breath. We pray for Holy Mother Church. Our prayers for our niece Brittany.. In Jesus Precious Blood by His Name we pray. Amen.

I am a poet obedient to Christ,

Catholic Evangelist Thomas Cruz†Wiggins

†Spirit led God inspired Christ fed†®

Ephesians 6:17-20

05-13-25 Acts 11 v2126

**First Called Christian**

In Antioch, a seed was sown,

Where faith and hope began to grow,

Disciples bold with hearts on fire,

Spoke of the Lord, their one desire.

With joyful words, the Gospel spread,

In every heart, they were truly Spirit led,

Hellenists gathered, souls anew,

The grace of God was breaking through.

Barnabas came, with joy in sight,

Witnessing this wondrous eternal light,

He cheered the faithful, strong and true,

“Stay firm in heart, let love renew!”

In bonds of grace, they found their way,

United in prayer, day by day,

Encouraged to stand, not drift apart,

A faithful journey, a faithful heart.

Let us remember that vibrant place,

Where love and faith embraced with grace,

Like those in Antioch, bold and bright,

We share the truth, a guiding light.

So, walk in faith, hold steadfast,

Encourage one another, first called Christians past,

For in the Lord, our hearts align,

As His disciples, we’ll brightly shine. Amen.

© Thomas Joe Cruz†Wiggins

May 13, 2025 @ 04:33 AM EST

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