Empowered to Witness!
- Craig Johnson
- Sep 1
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 2
OUR Mission in Acts 1:8
Well, at six thirty in our household it has been and most likely will always be Jeopardy time. Now we have been rather good church attenders and both my wife, Kathy, and I have taught Christian education over the years. So, when host Ken Jennings asked, “Where can the great commission be found in the New Testament outside of the Gospel?” without hesitation both of us start shouting. One of us said Matthew 28! I’m told I misspoke shouting Luke 28! WRONG! The answer is (drum roll please) it’s also found in Acts 1:8!
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
Besides the Matthew passage, Acts 1:8 stands as a cornerstone of the Church’s mission, both a promise and a call to action. Just before His ascension, Jesus tells His disciples, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” This one verse captures the heart of the Gospel mission:
Packed Power and Purpose, Jesus didn’t send His followers out all on their own. He promised them the Holy Spirit, a source of divine power (the Greek translation implies miraculous strength). That same Spirit still equips believers today with boldness, endurance, and grace to share the Good News.
Christ’s Global Vision was created in a political era and harsh environment that certainly wasn’t the easiest place to spread the new vision of the Good News! The Roman Empire could at any time incarcerate, torture and kill anyone who spreads a message that counters pagan thought.
The Good News mission began at home, in Jerusalem, and expanded outward: Judea, Samaria, and finally to the ends of the earth. It’s a clear roadmap for how the Gospel is meant to spread, breaking barriers and reaching every corner of the world. It’s a powerful message for every believer then and now, but have we in today’s comfort heard the call?
Acts 1:8 isn’t just a historical moment; it’s a living call. Each of us is invited to be a witness for Jesus, starting where we are and trusting the Spirit to lead us further. Can you imagine the impact of each of us inviting a friend to worship with us? What would we do if that neighbor family wanted a church home, but didn’t know how to ask?
Let this verse remind us: as baptized Christians we are empowered not just to believe, but to boldly share Christ’s love, here, near, and far. Doubtful that you can do it? Want to grow our Church? Why not try asking God in prayer? I can guarantee you will get an answer.
Together in spirit and Christ’s unending love,
Craig
