Acts 1

There have been two words in this opening paragraph that I have lingered over for some time! They are “began” and “after.”

1 In the first book, O Theophilus, I have dealt with all that Jesus *began to do and teach,

2 until the day when he was taken up, after he had given commands through the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom he had chosen.

3 He presented himself alive to them *after his suffering by many proofs, appearing to them during forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God. – Acts 1:1-3

“Began” most certainly means that God’s Kingdom will advance and continue. And the means of advancement is to do and teach-discipleship!

And most certainly, this would not have happened had not Jesus been raised! The contrast between the disciples in Luke and Acts can only be attributed to the truth and effects of the resurrection.

Had not it been true, these men would have continued fishing. They would have never risked their lives for a dead Jesus!

May the Kingdom advance through us as we risk, do, and teach! “May the Lamb receive the reward of his suffering!”