Message Notes:
Big Idea: God calls, prepares, and sends His people on purpose. The church in Acts grew because they listened to God, confirmed calling in community, and recognized how God had been preparing them all along.
[Acts 13:1–3 NLT]“Among the prophets and teachers… As they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Dedicate Barnabas and Saul…’ So after more fasting and prayer, they laid their hands on them and sent them on their way.”
- They didn’t move until they had worshiped, fasted, and prayed.
- They weren’t reacting to an audible voice — they were seeking God until His direction became clear.
- God directs steps, not destinations. When we slow down to ask Him, He shows us the next right step.
[Psalm 37:23 NLT]“The LORD directs the steps of the godly…”
[Proverbs 3:5–6 NLT]“Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.”
- “Prayer shaped the plan before the plan shaped the mission.”
- “The next step becomes clear after you’ve asked God to show it.”
[John 15:16 NLT]“You didn’t choose me. I chose you…”
[Acts 15:28 NLT]“‘It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us…’”
- God called Saul and Barnabas, and the community affirmed it.
- Calling begins with God, and is confirmed by God’s people.
- Leadership pipelines help us discern who God is already calling.
- “Calling begins with God, and is confirmed in community.”
[Acts 13:4 NLT]“So Barnabas and Saul were sent out by the Holy Spirit…”
[Acts 13:13–14 NLT]“Paul and his companions left Paphos… Paul and Barnabas traveled inland…”
- They went to places they already understood: Barnabas’s home (Cyprus) and Saul’s region (Asia Minor).
- Their history, culture, gifts, and struggles were all preparation.
- Nothing in their story was accidental — God had used it all.
[Ephesians 2:10 NLT]“We are God’s masterpiece… created anew… to do the good things he planned for us long ago.”
- “Your calling comes from your story.”
- “Your preparation started long before you knew your assignment.”
Set aside time this week to pray (and fast if you’re able).Ask: “God, what is the next right step You want me to take?”
Share your sense of direction with trusted believers or leaders who can help affirm where God may already be leading.
“Lord, make Grace Church a sending church.Send us where comfort won’t.Call who we would never expect.Speak clearly, and give us the courage to obey.Use us so that every one in New England has another chance to know and follow Jesus.”
Application Questions
- What stood out to you from this message and why?
- What is one thing God is telling you to
- What is one thing God is telling you to
- How will this message change how you act at home, at work, and in your relationships?