Today's Reading: Old Testament: Leviticus 14 - 15
New Testament: Acts 1
Focus Verses: Acts 1:1-5
1In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach 2until the day he was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen. 3After his suffering, he showed himself to these men and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. 4On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: "Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. 5For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit."
Insight:
In just a few words of introduction, Luke says some very big things as he begins his account of the early church. 1) This book begins where his first book (The Gospel of Luke) ends. Presumably, it is written with the same care and values as his first book (see Luke 1:1-4). 2) Jesus' instruction to the apostles was inspired by God. 3) The apostles were chosen by Jesus. 4) Jesus spent significant time with these apostles after his resurrection -- 40 days of proofs and teaching. 5) Jesus told the apostles to remain in Jerusalem because their ministry would begin there as the Holy Spirit was given to them by the Father.
Response and Action:
Luke's account of these events is carefully assembled and is written with eyewitness perspective. The scriptures and practices of the early church are founded on the teachings of the apostles, through Jesus, through the Holy Spirit. The authority of scripture and of the apostles is from the risen Christ.
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son. He has spoken through the prophets. I accept the authority of Jesus the Christ, the teaching of his apostles, and the scriptures. I seek you, Lord, with all my heart. Don't let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. Amen.
Proverbs: 30:4 - 5
"Who has gone up to heaven and come down? Who has gathered up the wind in the hollow of his hands? Who has wrapped up the waters in his cloak? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is his name, and the name of his son? Tell me if you know!
"Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him."
Resources:The Last Word: Scripture and the Authority of God
by N.T. Wright
