Life and Ministry Rooted in the Church
- Baptist Daily Devotional
- Oct 31
- 3 min read
Rev. Enoch Thompson | October 31 2025 | Acts 18:18-22
KEY VERSE: “Paul stayed on in Corinth for some time. Then he left the brothers and sisters and sailed for Syria, accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila… When he landed at Caesarea, he went up to Jerusalem and greeted the church and then went down to Antioch.“ (Acts 18:18, 22, NIV)
MESSAGE:
Paul’s missionary journey was full of bold preaching, deep relationships, and intense spiritual battles. Yet, when his travels came to a pause, he made a deliberate choice to return to Jerusalem and Antioch. These weren’t just destinations on a map; they were spiritual homes and reference points. Jerusalem represented the birthplace of the early church, a symbol of unity and shared faith. Antioch was the launching pad of Paul’s missionary work, the community that nurtured, affirmed, and sent him out.
Paul didn’t isolate himself after achieving success in ministry. He reconnected with the very fellowship that grounded his calling. He “greeted the church,” re-aligning his ministry like a GPS finding its centre. This rhythm of going out and coming home is vital for every believer.
No matter how far we go in ministry or life, we must remain rooted in the fellowship of believers. The church isn’t just a place, it’s a people, a spiritual family, a grounding force. Every kingdom citizen must have spiritual anchors—with Christ as our chief Anchor. We all need people who speak truth into our lives, who pray with us, who correct and encourage us, and who celebrate our growth. The church reminds us of our identity in Christ, our calling, and our need for grace.
Paul’s example reminds us that ministry is not a solo journey. Even the most gifted apostle needed the church. In the same way, life itself isn’t meant to be a solitary path. The most talented person still needs people.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
This week, reach out to someone who has been a spiritual anchor in your life. Thank them, pray with them, and reconnect with your church family. If you’ve grown distant, take a step back toward community and fellowship.
PRAYER:
Lord, thank You for the gift of spiritual community. Help me stay rooted in the fellowship of believers. When I drift, draw me back. When I grow weary, surround me with encouragement. May I never forget that I am part of a body, called to love, serve, and grow together. For Your dear Name’s sake, Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING
DAILY word study: CHURCH The Greek word ekklesia comes from ek (out) and kaleo (to call), meaning “the called-out ones.” In ancient times, it referred to an assembly of people summoned for a specific purpose. In the New Testament, it came to describe those whom God has called out of the world to follow Christ.
The church isn’t just a gathering; it’s a people living under God’s rule and representing His Kingdom wherever they are. Paul’s return to Jerusalem and Antioch showed his connection to this living community — the ekklesia that strengthened, prayed for, and sent him forth again.
Reflect on this:
Walls or buildings don’t define the church; it’s a living community of believers. Wherever God’s people gather—in homes, schools, offices, or sanctuaries—there is the church.
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