Unstoppable! 'New, but Connected' — Acts 1:1-2

Tuesday, January 2, 2024

Merry Christmas!

We pray the Lord blesses you with the grace of Jesus' presence this Christmas!

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In my first book I told you, Theophilus, about everything Jesus began to do and teach until the day he was taken up to heaven after giving his chosen apostles further instructions through the Holy Spirit.
— Acts 1:1-2 NLT

Key Thought

In Acts, Luke began his account of Jesus' early followers by connecting that account to Jesus' ministry through the Holy Spirit. The storyline that followed was new, but it was also connected. When the Lord "was taken up to heaven" from his disciples, he wasn't abandoning them. He subsequently gave them instructions through the Holy Spirit. The same Spirit who was active in Jesus' conception, was present at his baptism, and was powerfully at work in his ministry would be at work in them as well. Jesus' followers would have an unstoppable message because the Spirit that empowered Jesus would empower them!

Today's Prayer

Father, I am so thankful that, as your child, your Holy Spirit lives in me. I know that the Spirit is heavenly proof that I am your child.^ I believe the Holy Spirit connects me with Jesus and empowers me to live for him and become more like him. O Holy Spirit, enable me to live out Jesus' mission in my world. Make me bold as I share his message with others. I ask this in Jesus' name and for his glory. Amen.

^ Romans 8:16

Related Scripture Readings

  • Luke 24:44-53
  • 1 Timothy 3:16

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Illustration

Illustration of Acts 1:1-2 NLT — In my first book I told you, Theophilus, about everything Jesus began to do and teach until the day he was taken up to heaven after giving his chosen apostles further instructions through the Holy Spirit.

About This Devotional

Unstoppable! is a one-year devotional guide through the book of Acts. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage, a reflection and a prayer. The reflection opens up the day's scripture and shows how it challenges one to live for Jesus.

Unstoppable! is written by Phil Ware.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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