By: Steve Fandel

We recently launched a study of Acts in our Sunday School class, and there’s much we can all learn as Christians from these earliest followers of Jesus. It was a whirlwind month for these disciples to be sure. In a matter of days, they experienced the crucifixtion and death of Jesus, his glorious Resurrection and then his Ascension into heaven. The next time you find yourself with your head spinning because of church commitments and a too busy schedule, take a moment to recall these first followers.

They never had time to catch their breath. The savior of the world had chosen them for front row seats to the most powerful drama ever. But they weren’t just interested spectators. Before arising toward heaven, Jesus made each of them significant players.

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you.And you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. - Acts 1:8

Talk about out of the frying pan and into the fire. The 11 disciples (minus Judas) probably never imagined it would play out like this. Didn’t they envision an earthly kingdom; one where this mighty Jesus would single handedly conquer the Romans and restore the Jews to their proper place? They should have known better.  After all, wasn’t Jesus fond of doing the unexpected; life was never dull while following this spirited carpenter.

As Jesus exits the earthly stage in this drama for the ages, a new star is about to emerge. A close reading of Acts (or even a skimming through the pages) reveals the new star of this second volume by Luke. The Holy Spirit is now in the spotlight. Jesus promised “power” when the spirit came upon his followers, and it was delivered in a mighty way.

Chapter 2 of Acts is the familiar Pentecost scene when the Holy Spirit falls upon them in a powerful manner. It is fittingly the birth of the church.  The Holy Spirit enabled them and is still in the enabling business today.

Have you tapped into the power of the “comforter” and “counselor”. The early followers of Jesus were empowered by the Spirit and uplifted and energized by prayer. They are in constant prayer as they seek to share the good news of Jesus throughout the known world, even in the face of persecution and threats of death. We would do well to follow their early example. Powered by the Holy Spirit and constant prayer.  That was a wonderful combination for the success in planting the early church and it remains true today.
Download Article