Faithful on Fridays Blog

Episode One: Acts 1:1-9

Resurrection Sunday is the pinnacle event of the Church, however, it’s only the beginning. Doctor Luke wrote the Book of Acts as a continuation of his gospel account of Jesus’ life:

I have dealt with all that Jesus began to do and teach. Acts 1:1

The Holy Spirit’s power and teaching kingdom principles seemed to be foremost on Jesus’ mind before His return to His heavenly throne. 

He declared an overwhelming or baptizing of the Spirit that would be poured out on them (Luke 24:49; Acts 1:4-5) as promised by the Father (John 14:16-20) for power to live in Him. As they listened to His words their minds wandered into the lower story of political freedom for Israel (Acts 1:6-7), but Jesus quickly brought them back to his focus.

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you … Acts 1:8a 

The Greek word dunamis means a display of energy and ability to perform the Lord’s assignments. It’s His dynamic, forceful power displayed through us:

I can do (dunamis) all things through Christ who strengthens me. Phil. 4:13

Clearly, without this power the reverse is true. You can try and fail, and try again, but without this baptism, this immersion in the Spirit, you’re spiritually powerless. We need this teaching as much today as they needed it 2,000 years ago. 

Luke quoted Jesus after the resurrection:

Stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high. Luke 24:49b

This spiritual empowerment will clothe you like a wet suit, you’ll become one with it, consequently, you’re filled with the Spirit and prepared to live your life in Him; it’s the outfit I wear every day.

Jesus proved His identity many times and in various ways during these 40 days. One day He appeared in another form, into a locked room, and then vanished (Mark 16:12; John 20:19). The word appeared is the same word Paul used in referring to His Second Coming (1 Tim. 6:14, Titus 2:13); these foretastes are very exciting! The Greek word vanished is where we get the word ‘phantom’ but I guarantee that at His Return He’ll be no phantom, but the King of Glory for all to witness.

In Acts 1:9 as Jesus ascended back into heaven we read that angels proclaimed His Return. The glory cloud, shekinah, lifted Him back to His Father and that same manifestation of His glory will return Him to us; keep your eyes peeled, He’s coming back!

Behold, He is coming with the clouds and every eye will behold Him. Rev. 1:7a

What truths were crucial to Jesus as He spoke with His followers before His ascension? It seems that the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit and His Return were foremost on His mind; is it on our minds as well? Be filled with Him and expectation: He’s coming back and He’ll have His reward with Him: that’s you.