Acts 1:3-8
He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. On 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. For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.”
Then they gathered around him and asked him, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?”
He said to 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.”
Comments
The crucifixion dashed the disciples’ hope that Jesus would restore the kingdom to Israel and make all things right. The resurrection gave them new hope, but Jesus made it clear that the Second Coming was not immediately on the agenda.
The true and immediate hope of the disciples was the outpouring of the Holy Spirit that would empower their witness and bring God’s kingdom in a different way.
Reflections
Many people become obsessed with figuring out when Jesus will come again even though Jesus clearly discouraged such thinking about "times and dates." In what way has the teaching of any such “prophecy expert” helped you become more like Jesus?
Have you experienced the promised power of the Holy Spirit in your life and witness?
Prayer
Fill me with your Spirit, Lord, that my life and witness might be, not in my power but in your power, and not for my glory, but for your glory.
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