Tag: final instructions
Final instructions–for us!
Scripture reading for June 3rd: Acts 1:1-26
Today our journey through the New Testament takes us to the book of Acts. Acts was an additional historical book written by the doctor, Luke, documenting the progress of the early church. The first 12 chapters focus on events in and around Jerusalem and the Apostle Peter while the last chapters focus on the missionary efforts of the Apostle Paul. There are over 50 references to the Holy Spirit so we might call this book the ‘Acts of the Holy Spirit’.
Acts begins by Luke recounting briefly his Gospel account of all Jesus began to do and to teach before He was taken up to heaven. Jesus appeared to the apostles for a period of forty days and taught them about the kingdom of God. Jesus gave them a specific command, “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift My Father promised, which you have heard Me speak about. For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” (Acts 1:4-5)
His disciples, now called ‘apostles’ (sent ones), asked Jesus if this is when He would restore the kingdom to Israel. Jesus told them, “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by His own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8) These final instructions would shape the work of these apostles and the growth of the early church.
Jesus did not want them focusing on dates or times, but wanted them filled with this special gift of the Father, the Holy Spirit. Their purpose was to be ‘witnesses’ of Jesus Christ. Jesus had a simple message and a world-wide vision. The Holy Spirit would empower these men and the other followers of Jesus to be the witnesses they needed to be.
These simple instructions are still in effect for us today. We are to be focused on the mission of taking the Gospel of Jesus to our own ‘Jerusalem’ and then to the surrounding country and even to the ends of the earth. The power to do that comes from being baptized in the Holy Spirit! Ask the Lord to fill you with His power today!
Do everything in love!
Scripture reading for August 25th: 1st Corinthians 16:1-24
Paul closed his letter to the Corinthians with and encouragement and warning. He had dealt with many problems in this church and knew that there would be forces of opposition that they must watch out for. Mature believers are aware of the bigger picture and try to help the younger believers to stand firm.
“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith, be men of courage, be strong. Do everything in love.” (1st Corinthians 16:13) Rolled up in this short word of encouragement is Paul’s heart of love for these brothers. He had shared God’s word with them to build their faith. Faith would guard them by the truth and enable them to stand against every attack of Satan and their flesh. These men would need courage to live by faith. In the culture of Corinth, many temptations abounded to live in their flesh and enjoy the world’s pleasures.
If we all do everything in love, there would be no need of laws! Paul had taught them about how love was patient and kind. Love wasn’t rude or boastful, but considered others and their needs. (1st Corinthians 13:4-8) Love was what God was about and the love of God had been given us who believe by the Holy Spirit. Love would protect them and guide them into the will of God. Love would never fail to accomplish good! Faith expresses itself through love to make us pleasing to each other and God. (Galatians 5:6)
Paul encouraged these Corinthians to love in deed by preparing an offering. He told them that Timothy might come to see them and that they should help him and encourage him as he worked in their midst. He also told them that Apollos might come too. Love would not divide around these teachers, but would bless them.
Love should be expressed among themselves as well! “Greet one another with a holy kiss. I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. If anyone does not love the Lord–a curse be on him. Come, O Lord! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you. My love to all of you in Christ Jesus. Amen.” Paul personally closed this letter with encouragement and love! All love came from a love of Jesus Christ, who was coming! These are words we can use today!
Final Instructions!
Scripture reading for December 16th: Hebrews 11-13
We who have faith are part of a long line of men and women who put their trust in God. Hebrews 11 is known as the hall of fame for those having faith. Faith begins with trusting that God created the the world out of things that did not exist. (Hebrews 11:1-6) Faith is the major requirement for pleasing God on our journey through this life. We are promised a reward if we earnestly seek the Lord and hold onto our faith in Him.
It is interesting that our culture currently is trying to destroy a belief in God as Creator. Instead, time and chance are honored instead of God. “Science” is used to support the theory of evolution and discredit creationism. The knowledge of God as Creator is being suppressed in unrighteousness. When men do this, God gives them over to deluding influences that take men into great darkness and wickedness. (Romans 1:18-26) People who believe the truth of Scripture are ridiculed as “unscientific” and fools! Buying into these lies will bring deception and darkness that ends in eternal damnation.
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:1-2) We are in a race of faith authored by Jesus Christ, Himself. He focused on a goal as He went to the cross. He saw by faith all who would believe in Him free from the fear of death, living in God’s presence forever. This joy drove Him onward and should inspire us as well!
We should put off every weight and sin, and focus on Jesus Christ! We should live pure and holy lives, avoiding sexual immorality and worldliness as we wait for Jesus to return. We must live by faith in the grace of God to inherit the promises. These were the final instructions left for us and all who by faith believe! It is time to pay close attention and fix our eyes on the goal!