SCRIPTURE: Luke (NIV) 9:1 When Jesus had called the Twelve together, he gave them power and authority to drive out all demons and to cure diseases, 2 and he sent them out to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick … . 6 So they set out and went from village to village, preaching the gospel and healing people everywhere … . 10 When the apostles returned, they reported to Jesus what they had done.
OBSERVATION: Why did Jesus “call the disciples together?” The obvious reason was so He could “send them out!” But they needed equipping in order to be effective when they were fulfilling their mission. He did not trust their ability to accomplish His desired plan. So, while they were together, He empowered them and gave them authority over demons and sickness. This would make them more effective when He sent them out. They ministered in His power and delegated authority!
APPLICATION: We see the same pattern when Jesus left. He gave the disciples authority (Matthew 28:19); He told them to wait in Jerusalem for the power (Luke 24:49, Acts 1:4); then He sent the Holy Spirit to empower them (Acts 1:8 and 2:1-4). He sent them out in the power of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8)!
Why did Jesus have the early church gather in Jerusalem? So, He could send them out to the nations. But they needed equipping to be effective when they were fulfilling their mission. Jesus did not trust their ability to accomplish his desired plan. So, He sent the Holy Spirit to empower them in using their delegated authority!
The same is true in 2024. There is a gathering of SOAP leaders today in West Africa. SOAPs are printed and distributed in all 17 West African nations. God is sending these leaders, and other SOAP ministers into our world. He knows we cannot complete His mission in our own power. So, He will fill us, He will baptizes us to overflowing in the Holy Spirit and we will go in His power!
PRAYER: Holy Spirit, baptize us afresh like you did the early church on the day of Pentecost. Anoint us, fill us, and enable us to accomplish your will. Amen
Pastor Leon
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