Unlocking the Power of Acts: A Blueprint for the Modern Church
The book of Acts is more than just a historical account of the early Christian church. It’s a programmatic guide that offers a model for every generation to follow. Written by Luke, Acts provides a foundation for the newborn church and serves as a blueprint for the modern church to be reborn.
A Story Left Unfinished
The last words of Acts leave the reader with a sense of abruptness, as if the story is unfinished. Paul’s prison ministry in Rome is summarized in just two verses, leaving many questions unanswered. What happened to Paul’s audience with Caesar? Was he released from prison? How did the people respond to his message?
A Focus on God’s Work
Despite the unanswered questions, Luke’s account is clear: the story of Acts is not about Paul or Peter, but about God’s work in the world. It’s a story of resurrection life, the expansion of the temple, and the advance of the word. Even in prison, Paul’s testimony of Jesus and the kingdom goes forth unhindered.
A Call to Action
The ending of Acts compels readers to ask about their own role in this narrative. The book offers a word of encouragement, but what does it encourage us to do? The answer is clear: to press on in the mission. Despite setbacks and opposition, God’s purposes will not be stopped.
A Programmatic Guide
Acts is a programmatic book because it encourages the church to press on in its own agency as it is compelled by divine agency. God is building his church, and the church must welcome all, speak of salvation in Jesus’s name, and witness to the ends of the earth.
A Retrieval of Theology
A retrieval of the theology of Acts provides the groundwork for the rebirth of the modern church. By following Luke’s ordered narrative, readers can mine the theological rebirth that Luke offers. The opportunities for the church are endless, and the church narrative and God’s mission continue to expand toward the horizon.
The Mission Continues
The book of Acts may be finished, but the mission continues. The church must continue to welcome all, speak of salvation in Jesus’s name, and witness to the ends of the earth. As we follow the blueprint provided in Acts, we can be confident that God’s purposes will not be stopped.
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