The
Acts of the Apostles, which is the full name for the book we simply call Acts, was written by Luke. It is, in a sense, the next chapter in the
history he is recording for Theophilus (which may be an individual or a code
word for the people of God as the name means, “One Who Loves God”).
Written at a time that the church faced
persecution there are two things to take note of. First, the persecution arose because the
disciples adamantly witnessed/testified that Jesus had risen from the
dead. This is the heart of the message
to us as Christians, and it is the mission that we continue in. The early Christians were not concerned with
making the world a better place, they were witnesses proclaiming that Jesus,
who was crucified, has risen. Second, Luke wants his readers to see that these
Christians are good citizens. Related to
this testimony that Jesus has risen from the dead, indeed flowing from Jesus’
resurrection, is a transformation of people’s lives that moves them to love their
neighbors and do good in the world.
While the early church was not focused on making the world a better
place, the impact of their faith did.
Watch for these things as you read.
Acts
begins with Jesus’ commission of the apostles, “… you will be my witnesses in
Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” I find it interesting that here, as well as Matthew
28:19, the emphasis is not on a command to go. Matthew records Jesus’ command to, “make
disciples as you are going,” and what Luke records here sounds more like a
simple description of the future: “… you
will be my witnesses….”
Don’t get me wrong! I am very thankful for the people that
“go!” Missionaries, lay and clergy
alike, intentionally go into places in order to be witnesses so that people who
might not otherwise hear the Good News of Jesus’ resurrection can and so be
saved. But all Christians have the
privilege of sharing this Gospel, being witnesses. 1
Peter 2:9 speaks of this in terms of having been called out of darkness so
we can praise the One who called us, who saved us, so we can tell people that
Jesus died and rose and is the savior for sinners.
Jesus, You gave me Your Spirit please help
me be Your witness. Amen.
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