Read Acts 1:1-5 “The Promise of the Spirit”
1 In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach 2 until the day he was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen. 3 After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. 4 On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. 5 For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.”(TNIV)
➡ What do you think Luke’s purpose was in writing Acts?
If you have a bit longer :-)
“The Spirit” was not a new concept for the early Christians; in fact, Judaism had a wealth of biblical and extra-biblical material contributing to its meaning. Within this material, receiving the Spirit was presented as inessential to participation in the covenant community. In fact, the Spirit’s ministry seemed to be limited, with few exceptions, to the leaders and prophets and thus was seen as an additional gift. However, it was anticipated that within the salvation of “the age to come” (within which the created world would be restored, Israel would be liberated from their enemies and God’s covenant would be restored) this would not be the case but rather the Spirit would be poured out on all! This outpouring, fulfilling Ez. 36:26, would enable ongoing obedience thus enabling God’s people to be the hoped for “light to the nations.” (Isa. 42:6) [1]
➡ What does Jesus mean by baptism with the Holy Spirit? Why does he distinguish this from John’s water baptism?
➡ In what ways have you experienced the Holy Spirit at work in your life?
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