Daily Bible Plan – Acts of the Apostels 11

24. February 2026

Devotion by Reverend Joseph Antwi

Theme: Raising Spirit-Filled Disciples

Church, I am truly amazed by how hungry the church is in hearing and reading the devotions. Let’s keep meditating according to Psalm 1

Acts 11 gives us a living picture of what it means to raise Spirit-filled disciples. The church was expanding, but more importantly, it was maturing. Growth was not only numerical — it was spiritual.

This chapter shows us the kind of disciples we must raise today.

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1. Spirit-Filled Disciples Obey the Holy Spirit (vv.1–18)

When Peter returned to Jerusalem, he was confronted for entering a Gentile’s house. But instead of defending himself emotionally, he testified about what God had done. The Holy Spirit had fallen upon the Gentiles just as on them.

His response was simple and powerful:

“Who was I that I could withstand God?”

Spirit-filled disciples are governed by God’s voice, not public opinion.

They:

• Follow the Spirit beyond tradition.

• Embrace what God is doing.

• Submit when God expands their understanding.

If we are going to raise Spirit-filled disciples, we must teach obedience to the Holy Spirit above comfort and culture.

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2. Spirit-Filled Disciples Share Jesus Everywhere (vv.19–21)

Persecution scattered the believers, but it did not silence them. Wherever they went, they preached the Lord Jesus.

And the Scripture says, “The hand of the Lord was with them.”

Spirit-filled disciples do not retreat under pressure.

They carry Jesus into every environment.

They understand that:

• Trials can become platforms.

• Scattering can become sending.

• Opposition can become opportunity.

To raise Spirit-filled disciples, we must raise witnesses — not spectators.

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3. Spirit-Filled Disciples Encourage Others (vv.22–24)

When Barnabas arrived in Antioch and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced. He encouraged the believers to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts.

He was described as:

• A good man

• Full of the Holy Spirit

• Full of faith

And many were added to the Lord.

Spirit-filled disciples are encouragers.

They strengthen what God is building.

If we want to raise Spirit-filled disciples, we must cultivate hearts that celebrate growth and call others higher.

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4. Spirit-Filled Disciples Are Formed Through Teaching (vv.25–26)

Barnabas went to find Saul and brought him to Antioch. For a whole year, they met with the church and taught many people.

It was there the disciples were first called Christians.

This reminds us:

Spirit-filled disciples are not produced overnight.

They are shaped through consistent teaching and community.

Discipleship requires time, truth, and intentional investment.

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5. Spirit-Filled Disciples Live Generously (vv.27–30)

When a famine was prophesied, the disciples determined to send relief. Each one gave according to his ability.

Spiritual maturity expressed itself through generosity.

Spirit-filled disciples:

• Respond to need.

• Carry one another’s burdens.

• Express love through action.

A Spirit-filled church is not only powerful — it is compassionate.

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Reflection

Acts 11 challenges us deeply.

Are we raising disciples who:

• Obey the Spirit?

• Boldly proclaim Jesus?

• Encourage others?

• Commit to teaching and growth?

• Live generously?

Lord, raise us beyond religion.

Make us Spirit-filled disciples who reflect Christ in character, courage, and compassion. Amen.

Please open your bibles and read Acts 11:1-32

Also Psalm 1

Shalom