We read in verses 46 and 47 of Acts 2 that, “Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” It was all dependent upon the power of God. If we go back to Acts chapter one and see what was said by Jesus before all of this happens, we read that the followers of Jesus were told to wait on the Holy Spirit.
You may read some of the description of the early church and think their way of living and level of devotion sounds pretty extreme and not a realistic way to live. But what we find is that the early church wasn't doing these things out of their own power and strength, but they were doing it through the Holy Spirit.
In Acts 1:8-9, Jesus talked to them about the opportunity that they had once he ascended into Heaven. He says, “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.” After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight.” So, what Jesus emphasizes here is that no one should try to do anything on their own power. You have to wait for the Holy Spirit's power. When the Holy Spirit comes, he will allow you to do what you can't do on your own. The Holy Spirit will help you see these opportunities and lean into them.
Reflection/Discussion Question: What is a recent situation that you found yourself needing the Holy Spirit as your own power was not enough?
Comments