Jesus at Work Through His People
Rev. Charles Oppong-Poku | January 7 2025 | Acts 1:1-3
KEY VERSE:
In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach ² until the day he was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen. Acts 1:1-2 (NIV)
MESSAGE: The book of Acts begins with a profound truth: the work of Jesus Christ did not end with His earthly ministry. Luke highlights that his Gospel account covered “all that Jesus began to do and teach” (v. 1), implying that His work continues, even after His ascension. Jesus is at work through His people, empowered by the Holy Spirit.
Jesus’ ministry wasn’t confined to His time on earth. His teachings, miracles, and acts of love laid the foundation for the Church’s mission. He promised to empower his disciples through the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8; John 14:16-17; Luke 24:49), and he did. He told them they would do even greater things than he had done (John 14:12), and they did. Today, Jesus Christ works through His people, calling us to continue spreading the message of the Kingdom. Our actions, words, and service must reflect His ongoing ministry to a world in need.
Verse 2 emphasises that Jesus instructed the apostles through the Holy Spirit. The same Spirit equips us today, guiding, teaching, and empowering us to live out His mission. When we yield to the Spirit, our lives become instruments of God’s grace and truth, touching the lives of others. Being His people means actively participating in His redemptive work. As we share the gospel, serve those in need, and build relationships in love, we reveal Jesus to the world. Our obedience to His call ensures His presence and power are evident in every corner of society.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
In what ways do you see Jesus continuing His work through your life and community? How can you yield more to the Holy Spirit as an effective instrument for Christ? What specific steps can you take to represent Jesus in your relationships and service?
PRAYER:
Lord Jesus, thank You for continuing Your work through me, Your child. Please help me to rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance and strength. Teach me to be a faithful steward of Your mission, showing Your love and truth to the world. Use me to bring glory to Your name as I serve others in humility and obedience. For Your dear Name’s sake, Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 7: Genesis 11 — The Tower of Babel and Abram’s Family
DAILY word study: INSTRUCTIONS
The term “instructions” in Acts 1:2 comes from the Greek word entellomai, derived from en (in) and telos (end, purpose, or goal). It conveys the idea of issuing a command with a clear intent to achieve a specific purpose.
In the context of Acts 1:2, these instructions were given by Jesus through the Holy Spirit, emphasising their divine origin and authority. This verse clearly shows the role of the Holy Spirit as the enabler of the apostles' obedience and mission. Jesus’ instructions are the divine strategy for continuing His redemptive work on earth, pointing to the Church's dependence on the Spirit for direction and empowerment.
Reflection: Do you see Jesus’ instructions as a guide for purposeful living? How can you deepen your sensitivity to the Holy Spirit to better understand and follow His commands?
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