Introduction
In the context of our church's transition from Pastor Bob’s leadership to a new era, I want to explore a pivotal scriptural moment found in Acts chapter 1. Here, the disciples experienced a significant shift as they moved from following Jesus to becoming agents of His message, called to disciple nations. This transition speaks not only to the challenges faced by our church but also resonates with each of us as we encounter new seasons in our lives. Last week, we examined how these changes are guided by God’s control, the living presence of Christ, and the call to wait on the Holy Spirit. Today, we'll explore what new work God is initiating in these new seasons.
Main Points
As We Delve Into Acts 1
As we delve into Acts 1:1-3, we see that preparation is essential before embarking on new endeavors. Jesus, during the 40 days after His resurrection, invested time in teaching His disciples about the kingdom of God.
- His interactions were not mere formalities; they were rooted in a deep desire to prepare them for the significant mission ahead.
- Just as the disciples underwent a preparatory phase, we too often find ourselves in transitional periods where God is simultaneously equipping us and softening our hearts.
- In your own seasons of change, you may wonder, "Do I have what it takes?" This question is echoed in the hearts of many believers transitioning into new roles or life circumstances.
- Our lives consist of numerous preparations that God orchestrates to shape us into His witnesses.
The Same God Who Prepared The same God who prepared the disciples is preparing each of us, nudging us towards a deeper understanding of His will for our lives. The heart of Jesus’ mission was restoration, a theme reiterated throughout the Gospels.
- In Luke 15, we witness how Jesus welcomed sinners and shared parables illustrating God’s profound love.
- This aspect of the Kingdom, shown by Jesus, emphasized reaching those marginalized and lost.
- In contrast to the Pharisees, who represented a rigid self-righteousness, Jesus radiated grace, inviting everyone into His presence.
- The stories of lost sheep and coins reveal that there is immense joy in restoration.
This Principle Is Crucial For Both
This principle is crucial for both our understanding of God’s heart and how we should respond in our church community today. We want to be a congregation that embodies the same grace that drew us into relationship with Christ, ensuring our focus remains on reaching those who feel disenfranchised and lost. Each one of us, as we experience the restorative work of Christ, becomes an agent tasked with extending that same hope to the world. In Acts 1:8, Jesus commissions the disciples, promising them power through the Holy Spirit to be His witnesses. This command applies to us as well; we are not passive recipients of grace but active participants in God’s grand narrative. The transition into a new season calls us to embrace our roles in witnessing God’s work in our lives.
Our Individual Stories, How We Have Been
Our individual stories, how we have been transformed and restored, are powerful testimonies that can invoke change in others. In a world riddled with despair, your journey from lost to found provides a beacon of hope. God’s plan is intentional; as He equips us to manage our transitions, He sends us out to share these messages of transformation within our communities. As we internalize these truths, I encourage each of you to reflect on your own transitional experiences. What has God been preparing you for? Do you see evidence of His restorative work in your life?
The Call To Be Witnesses Is
The call to be witnesses is not just for the early disciples; it is for each of us today. Let us share how God has brought us through difficult seasons and into a place of hope, thereby engaging others and leading them towards their own restoration.
Conclusion
In concluding this examination of Acts chapter 1, I urge you to recognize the weight of your commission as a witness. As we transition into new seasons, whether in our church community or our personal lives, let’s remember that God is continually at work preparing, restoring, and sending us out. Embracing this truth helps us appreciate our individual stories, ensuring we remain engaged in the mission of witnessing to the transformational power of God in our lives. Let's be the generation that passes on the message of hope, love, and restoration that is central to our faith.