How can we apply the truth of Jesus' divine mission in our daily lives? Anchoring Ourselves in Acts 2:22 “Men of Israel, listen to this message: Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders, and signs, which God performed among you through Him, as you yourselves know.” What This Tells Us • Jesus’ mission is divine, publicly confirmed by God through undeniable miracles. • The eyewitnesses knew it; Scripture records it; we embrace it as literal, historical fact. • Because His mission is validated, everything He teaches carries absolute authority. Living in Awe of His Accredited Authority • Start every day remembering who commissions your steps—the One God authenticated (John 6:38; Colossians 1:16–18). • Let His lordship settle daily decisions: “If Jesus truly carries God’s seal, then how I spend money, treat family, use time must align with His words.” • Celebrate answered prayer as modern “signs” of His ongoing work (Ephesians 3:20). Relying on His Power, Not Ours • Acts 1:8 promises: “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you.” The same Spirit who worked the “miracles, wonders, and signs” now empowers obedience. • Pray before tasks—even ordinary ones—expecting divine enablement. • Replace self-reliance talk (“I’ve got this”) with Christ-confidence (“He’s equipped me,” Philippians 4:13). Reflecting His Wonders Through Character • While we may not perform public miracles daily, we display equally God-wrought “fruit” (Galatians 5:22–23). – Patience in traffic, kindness to a critic, joy in hardship become living proofs of Jesus’ ongoing mission. • Ask, “Which fruit would show my coworkers that Jesus is alive in me today?” Joining His Mission by Proclaiming the Message • Peter’s sermon links miracles to a call for repentance (Acts 2:36–38). Our witness should do the same. • Share personal stories: “Here’s how Christ changed me” rather than abstract arguments. • Keep the gospel clear: Jesus’ death, resurrection, and lordship (1 Corinthians 15:3–4). Serving as His Hands and Feet • Matthew 25:35–40 ties service to serving Christ Himself. Volunteer, give, welcome strangers—practical echoes of His compassionate signs. • Look for “small-scale wonders”: meeting a need right when someone prays for help. Walking in Daily Gratitude • 2 Corinthians 9:15: “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” Gratitude keeps His mission personal, not distant history. • Keep a journal of daily “signs”—providential conversations, timely encouragements. Waiting Expectantly for His Return • Acts 1:11 assures He’s coming back. Living mission-minded now prepares us for that day (Titus 2:13–14). • Evaluate weekly goals: “Would I pursue this if Jesus returned tonight?” Summary Checklist □ Remember Christ’s accredited authority each morning. □ Depend on Spirit-given power, not mere willpower. □ Exhibit His character as everyday evidence. □ Speak the gospel plainly and personally. □ Serve needs to mirror His compassionate signs. □ Record gratitude for ongoing wonders. □ Live ready for His return. His divine mission isn’t just a past event; it’s the guiding reality of every believer’s present. |