Read Acts 1 – 2
But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. Acts 1:8 KJV
Jesus explains in verse eight how the gospel would spread. It would not be by the wisdom or power of man but by the Holy Spirit as He empowers believers to be witnesses in ever widening circles of influence till the world is reached. This continues to have obvious significance for believers today! First, we are evidence of its fulfillment. The gospel has spread so we have heard and believed. Being in the uttermost part of the earth from Jerusalem, the gospel found its way to us. Second, we are part of its continued fulfillment as we share the message of Christ with others. Starting with those closest to us, we keep moving outward. This responsibility belongs to all Christians; none can say they do not have the ability to witness. We are witnesses if we know Christ as Savior because the Spirit empowers as such. The question is whether or not we are responsible as witnesses?
Lord, because You sent the Spirit into believers the good news of salvation spread quickly beyond Jerusalem and continues to spread from new centers of gospel activity today. Because You have empowered me as a witness I want to be responsible as one.
A question to ponder: What are some ways the Holy Spirit can use me as a witness in my own Jerusalem and beyond?
