Series Big Idea: "Equipping our congregation to embrace and fulfill the Great Commission"

Sermon Big Idea: "Empowered by the Holy Spirit, Christian’s continue Jesus’ mission, sharing the gospel globally"

Key Scripture (Acts 1:1-8)

As we continue our series Mission Ready, in which we have been unpacking what Scripture says concerning the gospel and our mission from Christ to spread the good news, I have chosen a passage (Acts 1:1-8) that captures the final moments of Jesus’ earthly ministry and the beginning of the church’s mission. Understanding the historical and cultural context of this passage will deepen our appreciation of and encourage us to fulfill our calling to share the gospel with excitement. Within this passage I believe we can see three compelling reasons why Christians can confidently fulfill the mission Christ has given us. Let’s unpack this powerful passage.

(Acts 1:1-8)

1 I wrote the first narrative, Theophilus, about all that Jesus began to do and teach 2 until the day He was taken up, after He had given orders through the Holy Spirit to the apostles He had chosen. 3 After He had suffered, He also presented Himself alive to them by many convincing proofs, appearing to them during 40 days and speaking about the kingdom of God. 4 While he was together with them, He commanded them not to leave Jerusalem, but to wait for the Father’s promise. “This,” He said, “is what you heard from Me; 5 for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” 6 So when they had come together, they asked Him, “Lord, are You restoring the kingdom to Israel at this time?” 7 He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or periods that the Father has set by his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come on you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

First, we see one of the major reasons Christians can confidently proclaim the gospel is the Continuity of Jesus’ Ministry. This refers to the ongoing nature and continuation of the work that He began during His earthly life and ministry. Jesus' work didn't end with His ascension; it set the stage for the apostles to carry forward His mission. Similarly, we are part of this ongoing story, called to continue His work. Jesus gave instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles, highlighting their divine guidance. They were not left alone to figure things out themselves but were equipped for their mission. Just as the apostles were chosen and empowered, we too are called and equipped by the Holy Spirit to fulfill Christ’s mission.

Next, another reason Christians can confidently fulfill Christ’s mission is because of the Promise of the Holy Spirit. Jesus told the apostles to wait in Jerusalem for the promised gift of the Holy Spirit. This waiting period was crucial for their preparation. In our lives, we also need to wait on God’s timing, trusting in His promises and preparing ourselves for the work He has called us to do. Jesus contrasted John’s baptism with water and the His coming baptism with the Holy Spirit, emphasizing a new phase of spiritual empowerment. For Southern Baptists, the Holy Spirit’s role in our lives is transformative, empowering us to live out our faith and share the gospel effectively. This is not a separate event post-conversion but an integral part of our salvation and sanctification journey.

Lastly, another reason for the Christian’s confidence is the Commission to Witness for Jesus. The disciples asked Jesus if He was going to restore the kingdom to Israel. Their question reflected their expectations of a political restoration. But Jesus redirected their focus from earthly concerns to their spiritual mission, reminding them, and us, that our primary task is to be witnesses of His grace and truth. Jesus declared that the apostles would be His witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. This geographical progression signifies the enormity of their mission. Our call to witness extends beyond our immediate surroundings, reaching people from all walks of life. We are called to share the gospel locally, regionally, and globally, bringing the hope of Jesus to a hurting world.

Conclusion

As we look back on this passage, we see that we are part of Jesus’ ongoing ministry, empowered by the Holy Spirit to be His witnesses. Our work is most definitely great, but the power within us is greater!

So, how are we to be constantly prepared to share the gospel? Pray for opportunities. Pray for opportunities to share your faith. Ask God to open doors and prepare hearts. Cultivate and build relationships. Invest in genuine relationships with people around you. Show Christ’s love through your actions and be ready to share your faith when the opportunity arises. Finally, consider the many different situations you may have to witness. How about your workplace? Look for moments to share your faith through conversations and by showing Christian values. You could get involved in local service projects, being an example of Christ's love through action and word. Use your online presence to share encouraging scriptures, testimonies, and gospel-centered content. Start gospel conversations at home, creating an environment where faith is openly discussed and lived out.

Church, as we go away from here today, let’s embrace our role as empowered witnesses. Wait on the Holy Spirit, trust in God’s timing, and boldly proclaim the gospel of Christ to anyone who will listen. The world needs the hope and salvation found in Jesus, and we are the messengers entrusted with this glorious news.

Pastor Beaver's thoughts and ideas are inspired by:

Holman Christian Standard Bible

English Standard Version Bible

King James Version Bible

Christian Standard Bible

Barton, Bruce et al. Life Application New Testament Commentary. Wheaton, IL: Tyndale, 2001. Print.

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