“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.“
Acts 1:8
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AUGUST 22, 2024
Acts 1:8 is an earth-shattering verse in the New Testament. It sums up the promise and mission given to the followers of Jesus Christ. What we read here is the beginning of the Church’s journey and reveals the source of its strength and purpose then and still today. Reflecting on this verse can deepen our understanding of our role in God’s grand story and the essential empowerment of the Holy Spirit.
The promise of receiving power from the Holy Spirit is foundational to our faith. The Holy Spirit isn’t given to us merely for personal spiritual growth but is linked to our shared mission. This divine empowerment equips us to overcome challenges, live out our faith boldly, and perform acts that testify to the Kingdom of God.
The Holy Spirit indwells us, profoundly changing our lives. This is not about human strength or wisdom but God working through us. Why is this important? Simply because the mission Jesus gave—spreading the gospel to the ends of the earth—can be overwhelming. Without the Holy Spirit, the task is impossible.
Sharing the gospel means proclaiming the truth of scripture, sharing the experiences of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, and being vulnerable to what Jesus has done in your life. It involves more than just preaching from a pulpit on Sunday morning; it is about living the message of Christ in our actions, words, and character every day.
Witnessing starts at home (“in Jerusalem”), extends to our broader communities and regions (“in all Judea and Samaria”), and ultimately reaches the entire world (“to the ends of the earth”). This progression emphasizes that our mission field begins where we are but must continually expand. We are called to step out of our comfort zones, breaking down cultural, language, and geography barriers to share the love of Christ.
Consider the following spaces in this way:
- Jerusalem represents our immediate context: families, friends, and local communities
- Judea and Samaria symbolize broader and sometimes more challenging fields. These areas represent places and people we might consider distant or different from us.
- “The ends of the earth” call us to a global mission. This could mean supporting international ministries, going on mission trips, or using digital platforms to reach people worldwide.
Acts 1:8 wasn’t just for those hearing Jesus’ words back then but for us today. Jesus entrusts this mission to us, and it is possible through divine empowerment from the Holy Spirit. As we seek to fulfill this commission, let us rely on the Holy Spirit, courageously witness to those around us, and continually expand our horizons to reach those far from God.
How am I witnessing to Christ today? Am I relying on the Holy Spirit for power? How can I extend my reach to those who have not heard the gospel? May we embrace our calling with joy and determination, knowing that the same Spirit that empowered the early church empowers us today.
Questions for reflection and discussion:
- How are you involved with the three areas of reach mentioned above?
- How and to whom are you being a witness of Jesus?
- Are you relying on the Holy Spirit for power?
- How can you extend your reach to those you’re in contact with every day?
Church Reading Plan: Jeremiah 51; Psalm 30