Acts 1-3; Proverbs 25
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The book of Acts is kind of like the bridge book between the gospels and the rest of the New Testament. It is a historical account written by Luke of what happened after the resurrection of Jesus. First of all, we find out that Jesus appeared to them many times over a period of 40 days giving many convincing proofs that He was alive. Jesus told them to be His witnesses “in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Then Jesus ascended into heaven.
One thing I love about the beginning of the book of Acts is this: “In those days Peter stood up among the believers …” Jesus had told Peter that he would be the rock on which He’d build His church, and now it was happening. Peter had failed Jesus, denying him three times, but God from the beginning had seen past Peter’s weakness and saw his potential. Peter was faithful and bold, and here after Jesus left, Peter steps up taking the lead and spreading the good news.
And Peter was not alone, nor are any believers, because just as Jesus had promised, they received the Holy Spirit to guide them and empower them. After receiving the Holy Spirit Peter spoke to the crowd in Jerusalem and it says, “Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.” Three thousand … that day … pretty incredible. What is also incredible – we’re a part of that same movement that started that day! And the job Jesus gave the disciples to do continues on as our job – to be His witnesses to the ends of the earth.
Peter did not live in constant regret for failing Jesus; he did not live in fear of messing up. He accepted the forgiveness given him, he trusted in the power of the Holy Spirit, and he obeyed the directions of Jesus.
Lord may we see ourselves through your eyes and be able to look past our own weaknesses. Help us not to live in regret, guilt, or fear, but to trust in You and Your presence and power within us.
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