Introduction and Ascension of Jesus (Acts 1:1-11)

Theophilus and the Former Account

The book of Acts opens with the author, Luke, addressing Theophilus, to whom he also wrote the Gospel of Luke. He summarizes the events of his previous account, focusing on Jesus’ teachings and actions up until His ascension. This introduction establishes the continuity between Jesus’ ministry in the Gospels and the work of the Holy Spirit through the apostles in Acts (Acts 1:1-2).

Final Instructions and Ascension

Before His ascension, Jesus spends forty days with His disciples, speaking about the kingdom of God and instructing them to stay in Jerusalem until they receive the Holy Spirit. His final act on earth is to commission the disciples to be His witnesses “in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:3-8). After giving these instructions, Jesus is taken up into heaven as the disciples watch, marking a pivotal transition in redemptive history (Acts 1:9-11).

The Upper Room and Prayer (Acts 1:12-14)

Return to Jerusalem

Following Jesus’ ascension, the disciples return to Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives, a short distance away. They gather in an upper room, likely the same place where the Last Supper occurred, symbolizing their obedience to Jesus’ command to wait for the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:12-13).

United in Prayer

In Jerusalem, the disciples—Peter, John, James, Andrew, Philip, Thomas, Bartholomew, Matthew, James son of Alphaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas son of James—along with the women, Mary the mother of Jesus, and His brothers, devote themselves to prayer. This scene of unity and prayer sets the stage for the coming of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the importance of communal prayer and preparation in God’s work (Acts 1:14).

Selection of Matthias (Acts 1:15-26)

Replacing Judas

During this time of prayer and waiting, Peter addresses about 120 believers regarding the need to replace Judas Iscariot, who had betrayed Jesus and then died by suicide. Citing Psalms 69:25 and 109:8, Peter speaks of the necessity of fulfilling Scripture through the appointment of a new apostle to take Judas’s place in the ministry and apostleship (Acts 1:15-20).

Selection and Appointment

Two men are proposed for this position: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. The group prays for divine guidance, asking God to show which of these two He has chosen to take over the apostolic ministry. Matthias is chosen by casting lots, restoring the number of the apostles to twelve. This decision highlights the early church’s reliance on prayer and divine direction in leadership matters (Acts 1:21-26).

Theological Significance

Connection to Jesus Christ

Acts 1 demonstrates Jesus’ continued lordship and guidance of His disciples, even as He prepares to leave them physically. His instructions about the Holy Spirit and the geographic scope of their mission emphasize His ongoing authority and the continuation of His work through the church.

God’s Love for the World

This chapter shows God’s love through the promise of the Holy Spirit, ensuring the disciples are not left alone but are empowered to extend the reach of the gospel. The inclusion of a diverse group of disciples, including women and family members, in prayerful waiting reflects God’s inclusive love.

Contemporary Relevance

Acts 1 remains relevant today as it sets a foundational example for Christian mission and church practices, particularly the emphasis on waiting for God’s timing, seeking His guidance in decisions, and the pivotal role of prayer in communal and mission-oriented endeavors. It reassures believers of the abiding presence and power of Jesus Christ through the Holy Spirit, encouraging them to witness boldly and broadly in an ever-expanding scope from local communities to global outreach.

Conclusion

Acts 1 not only transitions from the Gospels’ focus on Jesus’ earthly ministry to the Acts of the Apostles led by the Spirit but also reinforces key themes of divine guidance, community, prayer, and mission. It challenges contemporary Christians to engage in God’s mission with dependence on the Holy Spirit and commitment to Jesus’ final commission.