June 7, 2021 - Acts 1:1-8

History is either a boring set of facts or a fascinating account of the past that will give its student a window into the future. Those who research and study historical records begin to discover that man cycles through incidents and then duplicate and repeat certain key elements. So perhaps Mark Twain is correct when he stated, "History doesn't repeat itself, but it does rhyme."

Luke is a physician who traveled extensively with the Apostle Paul in his missionary journeys. He is credited with writing two historical books in the New Testament, Luke and Acts. He is writing to Theophilus in order to give him an orderly account of the life and work of Jesus Christ (Luke 1:1-4). The gospel of Luke chronicles the life of Jesus up to the resurrection and the disciples affirming the risen Lord. Luke begins this second book by picking up his account with the closing hours of Christ’s earthly ministry and His ascension to heaven. Luke will then methodically record the spread of this new teaching throughout the Roman empire.

As we begin our study in the book of Acts, we will notice the emphasis of the power of the Holy Spirit upon the followers of the Lord Jesus Christ to accomplish His work and establish groups of believers. This promise of the Father (v.4) had been given by Jesus early in His ministry in the Upper Room discourse (John 14-17) and now was coming to fruition.

While they were to know certain facts, other future events remained a mystery. In verses 6-8, the discussion between Christ and his disciples on future events brings Christ’s final challenge to the disciples. They were to focus on the task assigned and not concern themselves with issues that belonged to God. His promise to the disciples is that they will have the power to accomplish the purpose of witnessing to their world.

We have been given the same Spirit to go and announce to our present world the historical facts of the life and work of Jesus Christ. The historical accuracy of Luke’s writings gives us confidence to share with our culture about Christ. May we be witnesses to our community as we give an account of what Jesus has done in our lives and what He can do in the lives of those we speak to about Him.