“All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had. With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and much grace was upon them all. For from time to time those who owned lands or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales and put it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to anyone as he had need. “
Acts 4:32-35

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OCTOBER 1, 2024

The apostles remained in Jerusalem testifying to the resurrection of Jesus. The people of Jerusalem were fully aware of Jesus; His miracles were well established local and current events.

Many today acknowledge that Jesus was a historical figure, a great teacher, or even a prophet. But the resurrection of Jesus is a whole different issue. If Jesus was resurrected, then God has chosen to exalt Jesus, to ratify all that Jesus taught, said, and did. He is the Son of God, the Messiah.

             “Again the high priest asked him, “Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed One?”


“I am,” said Jesus, “And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the
Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven.”


The high priest tore his clothes. “Why do we need any more witnesses?” he asked. “You have heard the blasphemy. What do you think?”


They all condemned him as worthy of death.”
Mark 14:61b-64

Jesus’ accusers viewed Him as a blasphemer—and no surprise, for He repeatedly confronted their misuse of social and religious power. He submitted to their physical abuse and execution, and His death became the ultimate sacrifice for the sin of humankind. Jesus’ resurrection from the dead was God’s confirmation of Jesus.

This is the gospel!

The identity of Jesus as Savior of the world is dependent upon the veracity of the resurrection. When the apostles testified to the resurrection of Jesus with great power their hearers were confronted with two options: acceptance of Jesus as the Christ or rejection. The transformation of these men from fearful fugitives running away in the middle of the night from the mob who came to arrest Jesus to bold public witnesses of the resurrected Jesus has one explanation: they had seen the risen Lord.

The great power exhibited by the apostles is the transformation of the Spirit enabling them to fearlessly declare with absolute conviction the truth of the resurrection. We too can be confident in the resurrection of our Lord. We also are called to testify to Him as our risen King.

Questions for reflection and discussion:

  • How could you incorporate the significance of the resurrection of Jesus in your spiritual story?
  • Why is the resurrection of Jesus a stumbling block for some people?
  • If someone challenged you as to the truth of the resurrection, how would you respond?

 

Church Reading Plan: Ezekiel 34; Psalm 83-84