Acts 1:4-8
Standing up and speaking out for Christ can be a scary thing for many believers. Even if we want to obey the Lord’s call to “Go . . . and make disciples” (Matt. 28:19), we may wonder, What would I do? or What would I say? It can be a bit overwhelming and intimidating if we think we have to do it all on our own. Fortunately, we are not alone.
Look once again at yesterday’s key verses, Matthew 28:18-20. Knowing He was issuing a potentially uncomfortable command, the Lord was intentional in the way He framed it. Notice that this passage has essentially three components:
1. Jesus has all authority in heaven and earth.
2. We are to go and make disciples.
3. Jesus will be with us every step of the way.
This wording, combined with the promise of the Holy Spirit in Acts 1:8, reveals that the responsibility of making disciples was never intended to be a solo act. Jesus is not only present with us, but He is pouring His power into us so that we may more effectively be His witnesses—His ambassadors—in the world. The work is His and the power is His; we’re just the instruments He’s chosen to use in carrying out His work.
God wants to use us, but He hasn’t left us to tackle the job on our own. The One who holds all the power and authority in the universe is with us step by step, and He has put that power within us through His Holy Spirit. Everything we need is at our fingertips. All that’s left is for us to follow the command to “Go!” Where will that command lead you today?
Used with Permission
