This post is written by Bob Wilson as a companion for Unit 29, Session 1 of The Gospel Project for Adults, Volume 10: From Many People to One People (Winter 2023-24).
The book of Acts opens quickly, and it gets right into the action that exemplifies the book. Jesus ascended to heaven, and the Holy Spirit would come to empower Christ’s disciples to be His witnesses first in Jerusalem, then in Judea and Samaria, and to the uttermost parts of the world. This introduction not only serves as a general outline for the book of Acts but as and enduring assignment to all believers until Christ returns. In the opening verses we see how we as Christ’s disciples can fulfill the Great Commission because Christ has empowered us, directed us, and encouraged us in this great task.
Empowered by the Holy Spirit
In Acts 1:4-5, Jesus instructed His disciples to wait in Jerusalem for the gift that the Father had promised, the Holy Spirit. The order of events in the text is important; the disciples would need the Holy Spirit to boldly proclaim the gospel message and to fulfill the Great Commission. Christ’s promise to those disciples is the same for us today. We too have been empowered by the Holy Spirit to share the good news of Christ with those around us. The Holy Spirit gives us the strength, wisdom, and courage we need to witness for Christ in our daily lives. When we step out of our comfort zones to share the gospel with others, we can trust that the Holy Spirit will give us the words to say and the boldness to speak.
Directed by Christ’s Command
In Acts 1:8, Jesus gave His disciples a clear command, not just for the disciples of that time, but for all believers throughout history. We are all called to share the gospel with those around us. Through His command, Jesus has given us a clear direction. We are to be intentional and purposeful in our witness, seeking out opportunities to share the love of Christ with those around us. We have been entrusted with a high honor to represent our Savior throughout the world—to all people we can offer the message of Christ’s love, forgiveness, and redemption. There is no question as to what Christ has equipped us and directed us to do; we all have a place for Christ to use us for His glory.
Encouraged by Christ’s Promise
In Acts 1:9-11, we see Jesus’s ascension into heaven. As the disciples looked up into the sky, two angels appeared and reminded them of the promise of Christ’s return. This promise gives us hope and encouragement in fulfilling our calling. We know that one day Christ will return, and we will be with Him forever. This knowledge encourages us to persevere in our witness even in the face of opposition and persecution. It gives us the strength to keep sharing the gospel message, knowing that our labor in the Lord is not in vain.
Christ has empowered, directed, and encouraged us in fulfilling the Great Commission. As disciples we have the Holy Spirt, we know our instructions, and we see the goal ahead. May we be faithful in fulfilling the Great Commission, knowing that Christ is with us always, even to the end of the age.
Bob Wilson is the lead pastor of First Baptist Church in Meridianville, Alabama. He and his wife, Christa, have six children.
