Teaching Points
- 1
The early church expanded through persecution — what the enemy meant for harm, God used for advance.
- 2
Paul's missionary journeys provide a strategic model: go to the city, preach in the synagogue, gather believers, establish leaders, move on.
- 3
The Council at Jerusalem (Acts 15) resolved the tension between Jewish tradition and Gentile inclusion — the Gospel transcends culture.
- 4
Strategic missionary activity follows principles: start in centers of influence, reproduce, and trust God for the harvest.
Scriptures
Discussion Questions
- 1
How does the early church's expansion model inform your church planting strategy?
- 2
What lessons can we learn from Paul's missionary journeys?
- 3
How do we handle cultural tensions in church planting?