HOLY Spirit

I. Introduction A. The Mandate of Christ Our mandate as believers comes from the heart of Christ Himself, who declares in Acts 1:8, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”Application: Each day, let's remember this mandate as we interact with the world.B. The Power of the Holy Spirit This mandate isn't given without provision. The Holy Spirit equips us with power for the task.Application: Seek to be filled with the Spirit daily, inviting Him into every part of your life.

In Acts 1:8, the Greek word used for "receive" is "λήμψεσθε" (lēmpsesthe). It's a verb in future middle indicative form, which means it indicates an action that is going to happen in the future, and the subject of the verb is both the doer and the receiver of the action.

The Greek word "λήμψεσθε" (lēmpsesthe) comes from the root "λαμβάνω" (lambanó). Lambanó is a versatile Greek word that often means to take or receive, but it has a broader connotation depending on the context. It can also mean to catch, to choose, to select, or to grasp.

In the context of Acts 1:8, "λήμψεσθε" (lēmpsesthe) implies that the disciples will actively accept or take hold of the power promised by Jesus. It's not a passive receiving, but an active, expectant receiving - the disciples are being called to accept this power from the Holy Spirit in order to fulfill their mission to be witnesses. This active reception is an integral part of their role in the spreading of the Gospel.

The Greek word for "power" in Acts 1:8 is "δύναμις" (dunamis). Dunamis is a term that means power, strength, or ability. It refers to both physical power, like the power of an army, or the power inherent in a thing by virtue of its nature, and moral power or excellence of soul.

In the New Testament, "dunamis" is often associated with the miraculous power of God, and it is where we get the English word "dynamite," a substance with inherent power.

In the context of Acts 1:8, "dunamis" refers to the power the Holy Spirit imparts to believers. This is not just physical strength, but spiritual and moral power, the power to perform miracles, and the power to witness and testify about Jesus Christ effectively.

Acts 1:8 is a verse from the New Testament of the Bible, which was originally written in Greek, not Hebrew. The Greek word used for "power" in this verse is "δύναμις" (dunamis), which is where we get the term "dynamite." This word conveys the ideas of strength, power, or ability.

If we were to look at an equivalent concept in the Hebrew language, which is primarily used in the Old Testament, the most commonly used word for "power" is "כח" (koach).

Hebrew word pictures assign each Hebrew letter a pictographic meaning. Here's what we have for "כח" (koach):

- The first letter, "כ" (kaf), has a pictographic meaning of 'palm of a hand' or 'to open.' This suggests bending, taming, subduing, or opening.

- The second letter, "ח" (chet), has a pictographic meaning of a 'fence,' 'inner room,' or 'courtyard,' denoting separation, private, or sanctuary.

So the Hebrew word picture for "כח" (koach, power) could suggest "the open hand that encloses or protects." This paints a beautiful picture of power as something that not only is open, giving, and strong, but also protects, guards, and preserves.

However, it's important to note that while these pictures can provide some additional insight, they don't define the words' meanings, which are determined by their use in the biblical text.

II. Empowerment through the Spirit A. God’s Transforming Power The Holy Spirit's power is transformative, turning ordinary individuals into extraordinary witnesses.Application: Embrace the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. Allow Him to change you from within to reflect Christ in your life.

B. The Spirit’s Power is for Everyone God does not discriminate. The power of the Holy Spirit is available to all who believe and seek Him.Application: Never doubt your worthiness to receive His power. Seek Him out in prayer, knowing He eagerly wants to empower you.

III. Witness in Jerusalem: Starting at Home A. Our Immediate Circles "Jerusalem" symbolizes our home, our family, friends, and neighbors. Our mission starts right where we are.Application: Let your witness begin in your everyday interactions. Show Christ's love in the smallest gestures of kindness and compassion.B. Growing Our Faith By witnessing in our "Jerusalem", we grow in faith and courage, preparing us for broader spheres.Application: See each challenge in your immediate surroundings as an opportunity for spiritual growth.

IV. Witness in Judea and Samaria: Expanding the Mission

A. Overcoming Prejudices Judea and Samaria represent areas beyond our comfort zones, places and people we may have prejudices against.Application: Challenge your biases. Reach out to those who are different, remembering that God's love is for everyone.B. Spreading the Gospel It's our mandate to carry God's word into these places, crossing boundaries, both physical and cultural.Application: Get involved in or initiate programs that help to spread the gospel beyond your immediate circles.V.

Witness to the Ends of the Earth: The Ultimate Commission A. Global Evangelism Our call doesn't stop at our immediate or expanded communities. It goes as far as the earth's ends.Application: Support global missions. Pray for missionaries, give as you can, and perhaps even consider becoming one.B. Perseverance in the Great Commission The call is daunting, but the Holy Spirit's power sustains us.Application: When the task seems too great, return to the source - the Holy Spirit. Ask for His strength, and He will renew you.In conclusion, Acts 1:8 is more than a scriptural reference. It is a life mission, an exciting journey of transformation, and a testimony to the Holy Spirit's power. Empowered, we become God's witnesses at home, beyond our comfort zones, and to the ends of the earth. May we embrace this divine mandate with courage, conviction, and commitment, witnessing Christ in all we do.