Acts 1:8 (ESV) "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."
The locations mentioned in this verse represent a geographical broadening in scope of the apostles’ mission, from Israel’s capital, to the land of Israel, and to the entire world. This also reflects the structure of the book of Acts: The Church spreads in Jerusalem (chapters 1–7), in Judaea and Samaria (chapter 8), and to the surrounding nations (chapters 9–28).
The Greek word used here for power dynamis, can refer to power displayed in miracles (Acts 2:22; 4:7; 19:11), or (more generally) the ability of God or people to carry out their purposes (3:12; 4:33). God will enable the apostles to accomplish His work, wherever and whatever it is. The apostles are called to testify about Christ—to proclaim the reality of His death and resurrection as well as His kingdom and lordship. Faithlife Study Bible
Instead of being concerned about the date of Christ’s return, the disciples’ job was to carry His message throughout the world. you shall receive power: This does not refer to personal power for godly living, as demonstrated in the lives of Old Testament saints. This was power for a new task—namely, to take the gospel to the ends of the earth. Be witnesses is Christ’s command to His disciples to tell others about Him regardless of the consequences. Church tradition tells us that all but one of the 11 apostles who heard this promise became martyrs. (John died in exile.) God empowered His disciples to be faithful witnesses even when they faced the most vehement opposition. The NKJV Study Bible
Luke 24:47–49 and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And you are witnesses of these things…
Matthew 28:19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
Acts 2:1–4 When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting…
Mark 16:15 And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.
I was so grateful to spend time with those who gathered at the Religious Education Congress in Anaheim. My topic: This little light of mine—making a difference in our world.
From the Gospel of Matthew, “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bushel. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
You are the light of the world. Not if. Not, when you get you act together. Not, you’d better get this right. The light is alive and well inside every single one of us. Sabbath Moments
Scholars estimate that Acts was written around A. D. 63, likely by Luke. Early Christian tradition supported this attribution unanimously. Based on scriptures like Colossians 4:14, Philemon 1:24 and 2 Timothy 4:11, we know Luke was a close companion of Paul and accompanied him on several missionary journeys. As a physician by profession and a gentile (non-Jewish person) by birth, Luke brought a unique perspective to his narrative of the Church, often emphasizing themes of healing, compassion, and the far reach of the gospel message to both Jews and gentiles. He is the only New Testament writer we know of who was not Jewish.
Luke was also a respected historian known for his meticulous research and attention to detail. Some parts of Acts are a firsthand report from his perspective; other parts report information Luke gathered from trusted witnesses, even if he wasn't personally present at the events. First5
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