God's Love for the WorldSample

Jesus offers his disciples many convincing proofs that he was alive. He spends forty days preparing them, explaining how the scriptures prophecy about his suffering, and proving to them that he really was alive: no phantom apparition or figment of their imagination.

We might think that they were well prepared, ready to go and make disciples of every nation. They could now explain how the scriptures point to Jesus. They could offer eyewitness testimony of the resurrection. But Jesus tells them to wait for the gift of the Holy Spirit, who will empower them to make disciples in Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria, and the ends of the earth.

Of course, there is a reason Jesus gave his disciples thorough biblical teaching and appealed to them with proofs. This is one of the ways we can be well prepared to share the hope we have in Jesus. It is good for us to make every effort to add knowledge to our faith.

But without the Spirit empowering us we will not have the courage to bring the good news of Jesus to potential persecutors, like the apostles did in Jerusalem. Without the supernatural love that the Spirit bears in us, we won’t overcome grudges or cultural differences, like the apostles did in Samaria. Without perseverance, we will not continue the mission until it is complete.

Without the Spirit we rely only on our own ability to persuade. It is not our knowledge or intelligence that has the power to save. It is not our charm or eloquence that can regenerate someone who is dead in their sins. It is the Holy Spirit who convicts people of their need for Jesus through the gospel as we speak.

We need to avoid two dangers: 1) shying away from holding out the word of life because we think we aren’t smart or charming enough, and 2) taking pride in our intelligence or charm. Both dangers come from relying on our giftedness instead of on the gift of the Holy Spirit, given to all believers.

Which danger do you struggle with? How can you take steps to rely on the Spirit this week?

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