Obedience Leads to the Release of God's Power
Rev. Charles Oppong-Poku | January 13 2025 | Acts 1:12-14
KEY VERSE:
¹² Then the apostles returned to Jerusalem from the hill called the Mount of Olives, a Sabbath day’s walk from the city…. ¹⁴ They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary, the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers. Acts 1:12, 14 (NIV)
MESSAGE: Luke appears to be laying down the simple facts of what happened. We know that the apostles had seen their Lord raised from the dead and ascend back into heaven. Then, they grasped the significance of the angels' question (Acts 1:11) and obeyed what their Saviour had commanded them to do (Acts 1:4). They went back to Jerusalem to wait spiritually in prayer, listening, and anticipating. Their simple obedience should remind us that obedience leads to the release of God's power (Acts 2:4).
Obedience is the act of willingly submitting to and following God’s commands, instructions, and guidance. It reflects a heart that trusts God, loves Him, and seeks to honour Him through actions and attitudes. Obedience is not merely about external compliance but rather stems from an inner faith and devotion to God. Obedience requires both faith and action, prepares the way for God’s power, and lays the foundation for God’s mission.
The disciples returned to Jerusalem despite uncertainty about what would happen next. Their faith in Jesus’ promise moved them to act obediently, demonstrating their trust in Him. Obedience to God often requires stepping out in faith, even when we cannot fully see the outcome. The disciples’ obedience brought them to the upper room, where they prayed and waited together. This act of unity and surrender created an environment for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. By praying together and waiting as Jesus instructed, the disciples prepared their hearts for the coming of the Holy Spirit. God releases His power when His people are surrendered, united, and ready to receive His blessings.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Obedience is the pathway to experiencing the fullness of God’s power. Just as the disciples obeyed Jesus’ instructions and waited faithfully, we too must trust and follow Him, even when the future is uncertain. When we walk in obedience and unity, we invite God to move in our lives and equip us for His work.
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, help me to trust and obey Your commands, even when I don’t see the full picture. Prepare my heart to receive Your power and use me for Your mission. Teach me to walk faithfully, knowing that obedience leads to the release of Your mighty works. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING
DAILY word study: RETURNED
The Greek word for "returned" in Acts 1:12 is hypostrephō (ὑποστρέφω). It combines hypo (under) and strephō (to turn), meaning "to turn back" or "return."
In Acts 1:12, "returned" signifies more than a physical movement. It reflects the disciples' obedience to Jesus' command (Acts 1:4) and their willingness to wait for the Holy Spirit. Despite uncertainties, they embraced the promise with faith. The act of returning was a step of alignment with God's purpose, preparing their hearts for Pentecost.
Returning" in Scripture often symbolizes repentance, realignment, and readiness to receive God’s next move. Just as the prodigal son "returned" to his father (Luke 15:20), the disciples' return to Jerusalem highlighted trust and a commitment to God’s mission.
Reflection: What steps of obedience is God asking you to "return" to, and how might that prepare you for a greater release of His power?
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