Daily Thought

The Lord’s words to His disciples came on the heels of their question, ‘Lord wilt thou restore again at this time the kingdom to Israel?’ v. 6. They understood that literal promises had been made to Abraham and to David through the Old Testament prophets who spoke of the future restoration and glory of God’s earthly people. He did not correct or rebuke them for wrong theology; their understanding of these ancient covenants was quite accurate. Instead, the Lord was unveiling a new strategy for a new dispensation for what soon would become a new people, the church. It did not abrogate past promises made to His ancient people. It did not include date setting or a strategy for political and social improvement. In contrast, it laid out what would be the focus of the church for this age before He returns to restore all things. It was both singular and centred on Him, ‘Ye shall be witnesses unto me’.

Luke had written in his previous volume that the validation for his writing came as a result of being with others who were ‘eyewitnesses and ministers of the word’, Luke 1. 2. This is itself an adequate description of the standard placed upon the church. Firstly, there must be a personal apprehension of the Person and work of Christ. In the words of John, it is that which has been ‘heard’, ‘seen’, ‘looked upon’, and ‘our hands have handled of the word of life’, 1 John 1. 1. This is the first stage in the life of a witness - a dynamic encounter with the risen, living Word. The second is the application of that experience. Through the appropriation of spiritual resources and empowerment by the Holy Spirit, that witness is then translated into effectual service. The outcome is that the witness becomes an able minister of the word. It is clearly exemplified by the statement of Peter and John, who boldly and fearlessly declared before the Sanhedrin, ‘For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard, Acts 4. 20.

As we witness for Him and tell of His wonderful work in the lives of His people, we are doing what He has called us to do, and showing that we are ready to give an answer to anyone who asks about the hope that lies within us, 1 Pet. 3. 15.