James Stytle brought the message today and did a wonderful job helping us to understand the meaning behind Luke 24:43-52. Luke is the longest of the four gospels and contains over 60% unique material not found in the others. The author is unknown, but is thought to be Luke, who traveled with Paul. It is based upon eye-witness accounts thoroughly researched by the author.
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Luke 24:44-53 New International Version (NIV)
44 He said to them, “This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms.”
45 Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. 46 He told them, “This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, 47 and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 48 You are witnesses of these things.49 I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.”
The Ascension of Jesus
50 When he had led them out to the vicinity of Bethany, he lifted up his hands and blessed them. 51 While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up into heaven. 52 Then they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy.53 And they stayed continually at the temple, praising God.
New International Version (NIV)Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
As the verses begin, Jesus is in the locked upper-room with the disciples. He is explaining how the recent events were prophesied in what the TNK. Over the last three years with Christ and their Jewish upbringing have been preparing for them for this moment. Jesus explains that Jerusalem is just the starting point of their ministry. As witnesses, they are to go out in to the world to share the good news. Before they do that, they were to wait until they receive the promised gift of the Holy Spirit. That Spirit will guide them in their witness. Before ascending into heaven, Jesus blessed the disciples.
What does all of this mean for us? We, too, are to follow the example of Jesus in how to share God’s love with those around us. The great commission is for us as well! By studying the scriptures and striving to understand their meaning for us today, we open ourselves up to that same gift of the Holy Spirit. Just as it clothed the disciples, that same Spirit will guide and direct us if we are open and willing to follow.