Acts 1:1-2 (NLT) In my first book I told you, Theophilus,
about everything Jesus began to do and teach until the day
he was taken up to heaven after giving his chosen apostles further instructions
through the Holy Spirit.
Luke, the human author of Acts, refers
to ‘his’ Gospel when he writes about everything Jesus began to do. Luke clearly understands what Jesus followers
do after Jesus ascension to heaven as a continuation of Jesus own ministry. The
word disciple (the word means learner, and someone who follows the example of
another) is used less commonly by Luke in Acts as he replaces it with the word
apostle. The word apostle means special messenger or sent one and it is true to
say with this meaning all believers should be called apostles. We have all been
chosen by God to be his witnesses, passing on the message from God about what
Jesus has done for each person. The message of Easter is relevant every day,
Jesus died in our place, taking God’s anger and punishment for our sin on
himself. Believing in Jesus death for us and his resurrection proving he was
and is God is what we need to communicate in meaningful ways. We, Jesus
apostles are called to point others to Jesus own death, we are called to be
living examples of Jesus to an unbelieving world and we are called to live
lives directed by God’s Holy Spirit. What a responsibility and a privilege!
Father, we I take my responsibilities seriously
this week!
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