The Promise that Changed Everything

Text: Acts 1

Related Texts: John 14:16-17, Luke 24:49

Main Point: Anticipate God's power.

Introduction

Think back to a time when something completely new came out that you didn't see coming, but it changed everything. Or maybe you've heard your parents or teachers talk about something like that. Back in 2007, a company released a new phone—the first iPhone. It wasn't just a new phone, it was a game-changer. It changed how we communicated, how we used the internet, and how we saw our world. It was something people waited for with breathless anticipation, because they knew it was going to change everything.

That's a little bit of what the disciples must have felt like in Acts 1. Jesus had just given them a huge mission—to be His witnesses to the ends of the earth—and then told them to wait. They didn't know exactly what was coming, but they were filled with a restless, hopeful energy, because they were told to anticipate it. This week, we're going to learn that anticipating God's power is the first step to becoming a game-changer.

Exposition & Application

I. The Promise & the Plan (Acts 1:1-8)

Jesus proves He is alive and teaches about the kingdom of God (Acts 1:3).

The disciples are still stuck on their own plan to restore Israel (Acts 1:6).

Applicational Point: Don't live on your own power. Rely on God's power, not your own.

Jesus promises the Holy Spirit will come and give them power to be His witnesses (Acts 1:8).

II. The Wait & the Witness (Acts 1:9-14)

Jesus ascends into heaven, and the disciples are told He will return in the same way (Acts 1:9-11).

The disciples return to Jerusalem and gather in the upper room with other believers (Acts 1:12-13).

Applicational Point: Anticipate what you've been promised. The disciples weren't just waiting; they were praying and actively living with a hopeful expectation for God to act (Acts 1:14).

III. The Prayer & the Person (Acts 1:15-26)

Peter leads the believers in a search for a new apostle to replace Judas (Acts 1:15-22).

They prayerfully choose between two men, Matthias and Justus (Acts 1:23).

They cast lots and select Matthias (Acts 1:26).

Applicational Point: Remember where your power comes from. They relied on God's power and wisdom in their decision, not their own.

Conclusion

The disciples didn't have a plan for what came next, but they had a promise. They were asked to trust, to wait, and to anticipate. This week, let's stop trying to do it all on our own and start living with a hopeful expectation that God will do what He promised. The first "game-changer" in Acts was not an act of power, but an act of waiting. And that’s where our journey to changing everything begins.

Discussion Questions

How do you feel when you are forced to wait? What's the hardest part about waiting for something you know is coming?

How would you have felt if you were one of the disciples, waiting for a promise from Jesus?

Why is it so tempting to try and do things for God in our own strength? What are some examples of this in your own life?

Read Acts 1:8. In your own words, what does it mean to be a witness for Jesus? Where in your life are you called to be a witness?

Do you believe the Holy Spirit gives you power today? Why or why not? If so, what does that power look like?