Day 40: We are all witnesses
Posted by Rice on May 31, '09
 If you are a fan of the NBA you have probably heard of the Nike ad campaign this year for LeBron James. It's slogan: "We are all witnesses". Last night we witnessed their (Cleveland) loss and elimination from the playoffs. We are all disappointed now because of the potential match up with Kobe in the finals is now gone. Maybe next year.
Well chances are you have heard of LeBron. His name is known around the world. His image is everywhere. So his witnesses been successful in spreading the news about him. (You know where I am going with this.)
Our 40 days of faith may be ending but a new day of power can begin for us if we receive the infilling of the Holy Spirit that God promised and was given on the day of Pentecost.He promised that with that power we would be His witnesses to the ends of the earth. (Acts 1:8) The first message preached by the apostle Peter gives the full picture of who these witnesses should include. Read Acts 2.
First there were people present from every nation under heaven. (Acts 2:5) When you see an assembling of nations you know something is up. God is working all things for His good purpose and that purpose is for all nations to know Him.
Peter stood up and quoted the Prophet Joel and said that the Spirit would be poured out on:
All people (Acts 2:17)- that meant all types of people, not just Jews but Gentiles.
Sons and daughters- (Acts 2:17) This means that God is concerned about our young people and wants them to serve Him in power.
Young men- (Acts 2:17) They will see visions. Psychologists know the reality that men are moved more visually than women. WIthout the power of the Spirit, the vision for sin and pride will lead young men astray, but God wants the young men to be strong and see the vision of His glory.
Old men- (Acts 2:17) They will dream dreams. Our greatest treasure is not just our youth it's the older generation that still has the power to dream and help lead the next generation.
Servants, both men and women (Acts 2:18) The prophet makes sure we don't miss the fact that this is not just about men, but it is for women as well. Also, it's not just for superstars, but those that are humble servants.
You, your children, those that are far away, and as many as the Lord will call to Himself-
(Acts 2:39)This is a final summary of Peter that confirms that the power of God is for everyone.
To receive what they received we are given simple instructions in Acts 2:38:
Repent- that means to turn away from sin and darkness and turn to God in faith. Don't just say you believe with your lips but turn with your life and follow Jesus and His Word.
Be baptized- That means to so identify with Christ and His new life for you that you have a spiritual and symbolic burial of the old life you once lived. To be baptized is to be submerged in water and then raised up to walk in a new way.
You will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit- This means that the same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead will live in you and me and give us the power to be His witnesses.(Acts 1:8)
We are now all witnesses of the one that remains the true Leader and Champion for all men:
Jesus Christ the Lord!
God wants to use everyone.Male and female, young and old, rich and poor, and yes LeBron and Kobe.
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Rice Broocks, 5/31/2009 |
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