Power for a Purpose

The disciples had walked with Jesus for three years. They had seen the miracles, heard the sermons, touched the risen Lord. And still He told them: do not go yet. Wait for the power.

If those men needed the Holy Ghost before they could witness, we certainly do. Education, talent and good intentions are not enough. The Church was not born in a classroom; it was born in an upper room, with fire on their heads and a new tongue in their mouths.

But see what the power is for. It is not given so that we can enjoy a meeting, or prove we are more spiritual than someone else. Ye shall be witnesses unto me. The baptism of the Holy Ghost points away from the one who receives it and toward Jesus. If our Pentecost never leaves the church building, we have misunderstood it.

And notice the order: Jerusalem first. Before Samaria, before the uttermost part of the earth, there is home: the kitchen table, the job site, the neighbor across the fence. The Spirit who sends men to the nations also sends them next door.

Ask Him today, not only for more of His power, but for one person to tell about Jesus.