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Acts-1

Paving the Way: A Devotional Study on Acts 1​

Introduction​

As the Gospel narrative comes to a close in the account of Jesus' resurrection and ascension, the Holy Spirit descends to initiate a new chapter: the Book of Acts. The opening chapter of Acts sets the stage for the Christian faith's global expansion, chronicling the debut of the earliest Christian community and its founding members. Let's delve into the rich narrative of Acts 1, discovering the spiritual gifts and lessons inherent in this pivotal moment of Christian history.

Section 1: Paving the Way to Persevere (Acts 1:1-5)​

Devotional Thought: "In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus did and taught from the beginning until the people who lived in Jerusalem crucified him, but also about everything that has happened throughout the world ever since he was chosen by God his Father to be the Christ." As Luke launches into his second volume, he highlights the significance of Jesus as the chosen Christ, a theme that will continue in Acts with this band of believers. Today, keep in mind that no matter the transition or change, Jesus remains our steady cornerstone.

Reflection Questions:

  • How do you remain rooted in Jesus during times of transition or change?
  • In what ways can you lean into Jesus as the steady cornerstone?

Section 2: Paving the Way to Pray (Acts 1:6-11)​

"So when they had gathered together and made prayer, they asked [Jesus] saying, 'Lord, has it been restored to You at all to know, in what manner the ministry should go to another Man?'" The disciples do not cling to past glory; instead, they realize Jesus' impending departure requires a transition of authority. The disciples learn to pray for clear guidance; they long for the Holy Spirit's provision and boldness. Today, we too can learn to pray for the Holy Spirit's direction; may we remain faithful to such prayerful efforts.

Reflection Questions:

  • How do you approach prayer during times of uncertainty or transition?
  • In what ways can you remain faithful to prayerful efforts?

Section 3: Paving the Way to Power (Acts 1:12-14)​

"Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is near Jerusalem, a Sabbath day's journey. And when they had entered, they went up into the upper room where they were staying: Peter, James, John, and Andrew; Philip and Thomas; Bartholomew and Matthew; James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon the Zealot, and Judas the son of James." After Jesus' ascension, the disciples move back to Jerusalem. This group of seemingly unremarkable individuals may appear ordinary to us, yet like them, we, too, bear the Holy Spirit's transformational power. Let us remember that we too carry power within us as followers of Christ.

Reflection Questions:

  • How do you view your role in God's power through the Holy Spirit?
  • In what ways can you lean into the transformational power available to us as believers?

Section 4: Paving the Way to Persevere, Part 2 (Acts 1:15-26)​

"For he was numbered among us and had obtained a share in this ministry. Now this man bought a field with the welfare money and betrayed us to the masters of the temple and the chief priests, by whom he was killed. And we have acted unwisely by selecting Judas, who was the guide of those who arrested Jesus." The disciples, though grieved by Judas' betrayal, readily appoint a replacement. The disciples move forward, remembering their past sins but focused on their present and future mission. Today, we too can move forward after sin, realizing that though we may fall, we must carry on.

Reflection Questions:

  • How do you respond to sin in your life? How can you learn to move forward and keep pressing onwards?

Conclusion:​

The Book of Acts' debut sets the stage for the Christian faith's global expansion, highlighting the disciples' faith in Jesus and their purpose through the Holy Spirit. As followers of Christ, we carry this same purpose, even during times of transition or change. Today, we can remember Jesus as the steady cornerstone, pray for clear guidance, lean into the power of the Holy Spirit, and persevere through sin, knowing that like the disciples, Jesus is our resting place, our refuge, and our strength.