Witnesses
What was the purpose of the 40 days between the Jesus’ resurrection and His ascension? Three reasons. First, confirmation of resurrection, v. 3—”being seen by them during forty days and speaking of the things
pertaining to the kingdom of God.” The disciples were to be witnesses of His resurrection. It is essential that they see Jesus resurrected. A continual coming and going rather than one single viewing. Second, it was preparation for Pentecost, vv. 4-5—”you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” John’s baptism symbolized repentance, and the church will continue to use the outward symbol of water baptism as a public confession of Jesus upon entry into the community of believers—the local church. Yet, new converts would also be baptized with the Holy Spirit to receive His presence and power. The disciples would be soon empowered with the Holy Spirit to witness to Jesus Christ. Third, it was commission to witness, vv. 6-8—”you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” The role of Christ’s followers is to be witnesses—eyewitnesses of the resurrection must tell about it. And the witness must be about Jesus. It must be the Holy Spirit working through us for the witness to have any saving effect. It is an unfinished task—the gospel story has not reached its destination: the witness continues. What about you? You have been commissioned to be a witness to Jesus Christ. Go and share the good news.
Sin cera, Erik
Erik O. Garthe is Associate Pastor at Canton Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland.