RE Verse reading–Acts 1:1-8 (day three) “The first account (was) about all that Jesus began to do and teach until the day when He was taken up to heaven, after He had by the Holy Spirit given orders to the apostles” (vs 2) Luke is describing the 40 day period between the resurrection and the ascension of Christ. He speaks of Jesus “presenting Himself alive with many convincing proofs, speaking to them concerning the Kingdom of God” (vs 3) One detail catches our attention. He reports the Lord giving the apostles commands “BY the Holy Spirit”. How so? Those who know the story know that Pentecost is still 10 days away. In what sense did Jesus give orders “BY” the Spirit? Most scholars believe that Luke meant “with reference to ” the Spirit. As Jesus gave the great commission (Matthew 28) He pointed to the power that the Holy Spirit would bring. His purpose. His power. To serve Him effectively, we must be filled!
