“In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and teach until the day that he was taken up to heaven…” —ACTS 1:1-2

Luke, the author of the book of Acts, travelled a great deal with Paul, and was a physician by profession, but also a meticulous historian. He addresses Acts to Theophilus, of whom it may be speculated occupied a high position in Roman government as he is earlier referred to as ‘most excellent Theophilus’.

When Luke refers to his former book, he is referring to the Gospel of Luke, where he tells the story of Jesus; His conception, birth, life, miracles, parables, death, resurrection and ascension. The best way to understand the book of Acts is how Luke would have us understand it…that it is the continuing work of Jesus.

In the 33 year span the book of Acts covers, the church moved from an outback, which Jerusalem was in the Roman empire, to Judea, Samaria, Syria, and onto Antioch, then to Cyprus, up to Asia Minor, across to Greece and to the very heart of the Roman empire. Throughout the book of Acts, Jesus is actively involved, not merely from an apostolic movement, but in the involvement of every Christian. It is the acts of Jesus, Himself, by the outpouring of His Holy Spirit in the apostles and in those “added to the Lord”, which is the only explanation for the rapid spread of Christianity throughout the known world.

The problem many people have today is not in believing Jesus was raised from the dead, but in believing He is alive. If you believe He is alive, it changes everything. When there’s a crisis…Jesus is alive. Sick, lonely, depressed… Jesus is alive. Faced with sudden tragedy… Jesus is alive. This same Jesus continues to act. What previously He did through His physical body on earth, He is now doing through His new body given to Him on the Day of Pentecost, which is every Christian willing to serve Him.

As we look back on the early church with a 21st century perspective, it seems almost ludicrous to think that these men and women, most of whom were without education, influence, money, literature or any kind of publicity mechanism such as we have today, could turn the world upside down with the Gospel, but they did. In this day and age, many have become conditioned to depend on the tangible instead of on Christ, Himself. But there comes a time when you stand back and say there is only one explanation for the church of Jesus Christ: Jesus is alive and continuing His work in this world.

PRAYER: Precious Lord, I know all over the world miracles are taking place because of your continued work through your people. I want to be a part of that, and ask for many opportunities to serve you. Thank You, Lord.

TO REFLECT UPON: Am I willing for Christ to use me for His work in this world?