Introduction to Acts 28
When Jesus called to his disciples, they responded by leaving everything to follow him. What began was a journey into the unknown, a life changing adventure that would change the world. I do not think the disciples fully understood what was about to happen to them in the years ahead, the lessons they would learn, the extraordinary experiences they would have, and the power they would experience as they allowed Jesus to teach them the ways of the kingdom. His lessons are timeless. The church from the beginning was called to embody these timeless lessons and reflect the rule of God in day to day living. Unfortunately the church throughout history has forgotten its inheritance and failed its mission. One cannot live what one does not know.
Recovery of the past is essential for renewed purpose. It is time to recover our inheritance and with it our purpose again. In its earliest years, the church shamelessly contended for the manifestation of God’s rule on earth. Theirs was an agenda of the kingdom of God, the truths it embodied, and the lifestyle it engendered. The spiritual shock waves emanating from their example created a spiritual revolution in the ancient world; their radical living ultimately turned the world upside down.
There is momentum to the kingdom of God. Seeking first the kingdom always leads to the blessing of God. Signs and wonders will follow those who believe. Spiritual shock waves are inevitable. It’s hard to imagine that the early church was not in awe of how God used them. Gifts of mercy, compassion, giving, faith, and miracles flowed freely through surrendered lives in places of worship and in the marketplace alike. Gifts of revelation, spiritual visions, and angelic visitation were normal, and it only strengthened their commitment and granted them insight as to how God’s kingdom needed to advance before them. Without prophetic revelation it is difficult to discern the right path in unknown territory.
For the next 28 weeks we are going to share in their story, their lives, and their journey as we read the book of Acts. In some ways we can never do the story justice in the time we are giving it. Acts covers the story of the first 30 years of the church's life. Our journey will take us just 28 weeks. My prayer however, is that the seed of their example will stir our hearts into a lifetime of spiritual empowerment and impact.
In the past, God has used Acts to call the church back to its destiny and purpose. May God do it again in you and me!
Pastor Scott
