It had the first congregation to be called "Christians", then a derogatory term. It was the home base for the missionary journeys of Paul. The congregation was founded by the laity, not the clergy (apostles). They brought Christianity to both Jews and those of the Greek culture around them. They were continually in worship, prayer, fasting, and study. They compassionately worked to meet both the physical and spiritual needs of others, even those far beyond their country. They boldly defended their faith from creeping errors within. Their concern for the spiritual health of new converts continued for years afterwards. The church at Antioch, described in the book of Acts, is therefore a good model for us to follow.
[SG 5860V] [SG 5860V]