Continuation. Acts 1:1-5.
In the first book, O Theophilus, I have dealt with all that Jesus began to do and teach, Until the day when he was taken up after he had given commands through the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom he had chosen. He presented himself alive to them after suffering by many proofs, appearing to them during forty days and speaking about the Kingdom of God. While staying with them he ordered them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, “you heard from me;” For John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”
Dear Children of the Heavenly Father,
Today we embark on a new journey in the Acts of the Apostles. This book is a sequel to the gospel of Luke, an account of what transpired after Jesus was taken up into heaven.
Past (v. 1-3). This book, as was the gospel of Luke, is addressed to Theophilus (Luke 1:3). We do not know whether this is the name of the person or an address describing him. Theophilus translated means one who loves God. Luke here recalls the ministry of Jesus up to his death, resurrection, and ascension. Jesus spent the forty days after His ascension emphasizing the message of the kingdom of God to the apostles.
Promise (v. 4). Jesus had promised to send the Holy Spirit to be with the disciples so that his departure would not leave them “as orphans” (John 14:16-18). The disciples had been instructed by Jesus to wait for the fulfillment of this promise before venturing out into the world to proclaim the gospel of the Kingdom.
Provision (v. 5).In his instructions, Jesus told the disciples that they would receive the baptism John had talked about, and which he had said was much superior to the water baptism John was practicing (Matthew 3:11). This great event would occur a few days after the conversation with Jesus. There are times when we are rearing to go. Yet at some of those times, God makes us wait. It is not without good reason, because God knows what we will face and the preparation we need. Do not run ahead of God. Wait.
Your Loving Pastor Chris.