1 00:00:00,620 --> 00:00:03,360 Speaker 1: But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has 2 00:00:03,420 --> 00:00:10,550 Speaker 1: come upon you. Acts 1.8 Heavenly Father, we come before 3 00:00:10,610 --> 00:00:16,710 Speaker 1: you with grateful hearts, acknowledging your incredible promise in Acts 1.8. 4 00:00:16,710 --> 00:00:19,090 Speaker 1: We thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit, 5 00:00:19,710 --> 00:00:22,850 Speaker 1: who empowers us to be your witnesses to the ends 6 00:00:22,890 --> 00:00:26,890 Speaker 1: of the earth. Lord, we recognize our deep need for 7 00:00:26,930 --> 00:00:31,130 Speaker 1: your strength and guidance in our daily lives. Without you, 8 00:00:31,910 --> 00:00:36,089 Speaker 1: we are powerless. Fill us afresh with your Spirit so 9 00:00:36,130 --> 00:00:40,000 Speaker 1: that we may boldly share the good news of Jesus 10 00:00:40,100 --> 00:00:43,500 Speaker 1: Christ with those around us. Help us to be courageous 11 00:00:43,620 --> 00:00:47,839 Speaker 1: in our faith, spreading your love and truth wherever we go. 12 00:00:48,440 --> 00:00:51,870 Speaker 1: Strengthen our hearts to trust in your timing and plan, 13 00:00:52,590 --> 00:00:56,190 Speaker 1: even when we face challenges. Use us, Lord, to bring 14 00:00:56,310 --> 00:01:00,330 Speaker 1: light into the darkness and hope to the helpless. and 15 00:01:00,370 --> 00:01:03,350 Speaker 1: to be a reflection of your grace and mercy in 16 00:01:03,390 --> 00:01:10,789 Speaker 1: this world. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. Thank you 17 00:01:10,850 --> 00:01:15,080 Speaker 1: for praying with me today. You're listening to the Jesus Podcast. 18 00:01:16,080 --> 00:01:20,100 Speaker 1: Remain here for our mini-series on the birth of the church. 19 00:01:21,459 --> 00:01:24,380 Speaker 1: If this podcast has blessed you, we would love it 20 00:01:24,740 --> 00:01:28,480 Speaker 1: if you left a review. Doing so makes a huge 21 00:01:28,620 --> 00:01:34,500 Speaker 1: impact on our team. Luke hunched over the small table 22 00:01:34,560 --> 00:01:38,470 Speaker 1: set in the corner of the room. Parchment and ink 23 00:01:38,510 --> 00:01:42,510 Speaker 1: stains littered its surface as the sound of his stylus 24 00:01:42,569 --> 00:01:46,350 Speaker 1: scratched across the pavers. He peered up and out the window. 25 00:01:47,390 --> 00:01:50,640 Speaker 1: His eyes were fixated on the blue expanse, but his 26 00:01:50,720 --> 00:01:54,860 Speaker 1: mind was focused on his research. For months he had 27 00:01:54,900 --> 00:01:59,220 Speaker 1: been Paul's companion in adventure and ministry, but this wasn't 28 00:01:59,560 --> 00:02:02,850 Speaker 1: enough for Luke. There was more to be told that 29 00:02:02,890 --> 00:02:06,670 Speaker 1: he hadn't seen himself. As a result, Luke traveled from 30 00:02:06,790 --> 00:02:10,989 Speaker 1: city to city, endeavoring to find eyewitnesses of the ministry 31 00:02:11,010 --> 00:02:15,109 Speaker 1: of Jesus and the subsequent boom of his church. And 32 00:02:15,169 --> 00:02:19,750 Speaker 1: now he labored over accurately recalling the stories he had heard. 33 00:02:20,490 --> 00:02:23,810 Speaker 1: He was writing a letter to Theophilus, hoping to see 34 00:02:23,919 --> 00:02:27,720 Speaker 1: his faith grow. If the great Theophilus could see what 35 00:02:27,800 --> 00:02:32,170 Speaker 1: Luke saw and hear what Luke heard, then perhaps everyone 36 00:02:32,310 --> 00:02:36,459 Speaker 1: in his influence would as well. Luke's background as a 37 00:02:36,500 --> 00:02:41,540 Speaker 1: physician drew him to facts and a meticulous understanding of 38 00:02:41,580 --> 00:02:45,620 Speaker 1: his subject, but it also stemmed from a desire to 39 00:02:45,660 --> 00:02:50,130 Speaker 1: help others. His writing was no different. Each word was 40 00:02:50,310 --> 00:02:55,390 Speaker 1: carefully selected. Accuracy was of the utmost importance in retelling 41 00:02:55,450 --> 00:02:58,570 Speaker 1: the gospel message. If it meant that the one who 42 00:02:58,650 --> 00:03:02,790 Speaker 1: read it might find salvation in Jesus, who was the Christ. 43 00:03:03,470 --> 00:03:06,460 Speaker 1: He read the words set before him and struck them out. 44 00:03:07,960 --> 00:03:13,380 Speaker 2: No, that's not it. Where to start? Where to start? 45 00:03:14,639 --> 00:03:18,590 Speaker 1: Luke wondered to himself. In his last letter to Theophilus, 46 00:03:19,310 --> 00:03:23,230 Speaker 1: he had concluded on Jesus' ascension into heaven. But the 47 00:03:23,270 --> 00:03:24,770 Speaker 1: story was far from over. 48 00:03:25,570 --> 00:03:29,500 Speaker 2: I suppose I could start in Jerusalem. But so much 49 00:03:29,560 --> 00:03:30,920 Speaker 2: happened even before then. 50 00:03:31,580 --> 00:03:35,420 Speaker 1: He rifled through his papers, determined to piece together the 51 00:03:35,460 --> 00:03:39,310 Speaker 1: most compelling narrative. He slunk back into his chair and 52 00:03:39,430 --> 00:03:43,550 Speaker 1: pressed his hands firmly over his eyes. He sighed deeply, 53 00:03:44,130 --> 00:03:47,670 Speaker 1: wondering if the words would ever come to him. In 54 00:03:47,730 --> 00:03:51,570 Speaker 1: transcribing his thoughts in his first letter, he worried that 55 00:03:51,630 --> 00:03:55,060 Speaker 1: he had finally run out of words. He began to 56 00:03:55,120 --> 00:03:59,170 Speaker 1: question his efforts. Would any of this matter? Would it 57 00:03:59,210 --> 00:04:03,070 Speaker 1: even make a difference in witnessing to Theophilus, let alone 58 00:04:03,110 --> 00:04:06,450 Speaker 1: anyone else who might read the letter? He stared out 59 00:04:06,510 --> 00:04:10,070 Speaker 1: the window again. He cleared his mind and muttered a 60 00:04:10,110 --> 00:04:14,130 Speaker 1: silent prayer to himself. A gentle wind stirred the curtains 61 00:04:14,490 --> 00:04:19,290 Speaker 1: as he prayed and wisped around the room. Almost instantly, 62 00:04:20,230 --> 00:04:24,229 Speaker 1: Luke felt at peace. His heart slowed and his thoughts 63 00:04:24,310 --> 00:04:28,650 Speaker 1: seemed to knit themselves together apart from his effort's. He 64 00:04:28,690 --> 00:04:33,170 Speaker 1: took his stylus up again, plunged the end into the inkwell, 65 00:04:33,790 --> 00:04:37,710 Speaker 1: and began writing. When satisfied, he picked up the stack 66 00:04:37,730 --> 00:04:40,800 Speaker 1: of parchment and read the words back to himself. 67 00:04:42,339 --> 00:04:46,099 Speaker 2: In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that 68 00:04:46,220 --> 00:04:49,280 Speaker 2: Jesus began to do and to teach until the day 69 00:04:49,339 --> 00:04:53,140 Speaker 2: he was taken up to heaven after giving instructions through 70 00:04:53,170 --> 00:04:58,739 Speaker 2: the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen. After suffering, 71 00:04:59,600 --> 00:05:03,320 Speaker 2: he presented himself to them and gave convincing proof that 72 00:05:03,420 --> 00:05:07,660 Speaker 2: he was alive. He appeared to them over forty days 73 00:05:08,260 --> 00:05:10,640 Speaker 2: and spoke about the kingdom of God. 74 00:05:11,420 --> 00:05:15,400 Speaker 1: He smiled to himself, content with the words that seemed 75 00:05:15,420 --> 00:05:17,750 Speaker 1: to have been given to him by the spirit himself. 76 00:05:18,630 --> 00:05:22,470 Speaker 1: Dipping his stylus back into the black ink, he leaned 77 00:05:22,550 --> 00:05:24,279 Speaker 1: over the desk and carried on. 78 00:05:27,650 --> 00:05:30,910 Speaker 3: Are you in pain after walking, running, or even just standing? 79 00:05:31,390 --> 00:05:34,969 Speaker 3: It's not your feet. It's your shoes. This summer, switch 80 00:05:34,990 --> 00:05:39,850 Speaker 3: to G-Defy shoes with patented VersoShock technology, which aligns your body, 81 00:05:40,010 --> 00:05:46,469 Speaker 3: provides superior shock absorption, and trampoline-like energy return. 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The hero, who has been through countless trials 92 00:06:34,540 --> 00:06:38,180 Speaker 4: and tribulations, is about to make their final exit. As 93 00:06:38,220 --> 00:06:41,260 Speaker 4: they ascend into the heavens, the screen fades to black. 94 00:06:41,870 --> 00:06:45,490 Speaker 4: But wait, what happens next? How do we carry on 95 00:06:45,570 --> 00:06:48,830 Speaker 4: without our hero? This is where the Book of Acts begins, 96 00:06:49,230 --> 00:06:53,130 Speaker 4: with an epic finale and an even grander sequel. Welcome 97 00:06:53,170 --> 00:06:57,049 Speaker 4: to the Jesus Podcast. I'm Zach, back again to guide 98 00:06:57,089 --> 00:07:00,349 Speaker 4: you through these epic stories of faith, devotion, and the 99 00:07:00,390 --> 00:07:03,150 Speaker 4: beginning of the church. We will spend the next few 100 00:07:03,190 --> 00:07:06,060 Speaker 4: weeks highlighting the first 10 chapters of the book of Acts. 101 00:07:06,650 --> 00:07:10,380 Speaker 4: What does this have to do with Jesus, you might ask? Well, everything. 102 00:07:11,000 --> 00:07:14,480 Speaker 4: This is Christ's church, fulfilling Christ's commission by the power 103 00:07:14,540 --> 00:07:18,800 Speaker 4: of Christ's spirit. You see, my friends, the church is 104 00:07:19,060 --> 00:07:23,270 Speaker 4: all about Jesus. As we dive into these epic adventures, 105 00:07:23,530 --> 00:07:26,090 Speaker 4: make sure to follow this podcast if you haven't done so, 106 00:07:26,450 --> 00:07:29,480 Speaker 4: leave a review because we love hearing from you, and 107 00:07:29,650 --> 00:07:32,580 Speaker 4: share this podcast with a friend. We start this mini-series 108 00:07:32,780 --> 00:07:36,160 Speaker 4: off with Jesus who, after a dramatic 40-day encore of 109 00:07:36,240 --> 00:07:40,200 Speaker 4: teaching and proving his resurrection, ascends into the sky. His 110 00:07:40,240 --> 00:07:43,670 Speaker 4: departure sets the stage for the continuation of his mission 111 00:07:44,120 --> 00:07:49,680 Speaker 4: through us, the people, his church. Acts 1, 1-11 serves 112 00:07:49,780 --> 00:07:53,500 Speaker 4: as a prologue to a transformative journey. Luke is the 113 00:07:53,640 --> 00:07:56,080 Speaker 4: author of the book of Acts. He's a physician and 114 00:07:56,180 --> 00:08:00,580 Speaker 4: a meticulous historian. Although he wasn't an eyewitness to Jesus' 115 00:08:00,640 --> 00:08:03,610 Speaker 4: ministry himself, he was an eyewitness to many of the 116 00:08:03,670 --> 00:08:07,470 Speaker 4: events that happened after his ascension. He writes this book 117 00:08:07,510 --> 00:08:10,930 Speaker 4: to a figure named Theophilus, which means God-lover. It's as 118 00:08:10,950 --> 00:08:13,630 Speaker 4: though Luke is saying, for those who loved God, here's 119 00:08:13,690 --> 00:08:18,490 Speaker 4: how the story continues. The Gospel of Luke ends with Jesus' resurrection. 120 00:08:19,070 --> 00:08:23,410 Speaker 4: Acts picks up with his ascension and promises. This seamless 121 00:08:23,550 --> 00:08:27,670 Speaker 4: transition is crucial. Without Acts, we'd be left wondering how 122 00:08:27,710 --> 00:08:32,250 Speaker 4: a small, beleaguered group of followers becomes the global church 123 00:08:32,340 --> 00:08:36,020 Speaker 4: movement that we know today. Jesus' ascension isn't merely a 124 00:08:36,080 --> 00:08:39,400 Speaker 4: celestial exit. It's the beginning of a new era. The 125 00:08:39,440 --> 00:08:42,720 Speaker 4: ascension witnessed by his disciples is a significant shift from 126 00:08:42,760 --> 00:08:45,429 Speaker 4: his earthly ministry Jesus sat on a stone near the 127 00:08:45,450 --> 00:08:47,650 Speaker 4: base of the Mount of Olives. The disciples were seated 128 00:08:47,670 --> 00:08:49,670 Speaker 4: around him, unfolded cloths on their laps, and bread and 129 00:08:49,690 --> 00:08:51,100 Speaker 4: dried fruit topped off their plates. 130 00:08:51,120 --> 00:09:14,010 Speaker 5: Peter, Would you pass me some of the olives? 131 00:09:14,510 --> 00:09:16,860 Speaker 6: Ever since my resurrection, I just can't seem to get 132 00:09:16,910 --> 00:09:17,400 Speaker 6: enough of them. 133 00:09:17,960 --> 00:09:21,620 Speaker 1: Peter passed a small bowl to Jesus, forcing a smile 134 00:09:21,700 --> 00:09:25,660 Speaker 1: as he did so. Even after 40 days, the reality 135 00:09:25,720 --> 00:09:29,500 Speaker 1: that Jesus had risen from the dead was still fresh 136 00:09:29,660 --> 00:09:33,040 Speaker 1: for the disciples. For some of them, it would have 137 00:09:33,100 --> 00:09:37,410 Speaker 1: been nearly unbelievable if they hadn't touched the very wounds 138 00:09:37,450 --> 00:09:41,290 Speaker 1: of Jesus with their own hands. The day of Jesus' 139 00:09:41,350 --> 00:09:46,179 Speaker 1: death was the darkest in history as they scattered into hiding. 140 00:09:47,300 --> 00:09:51,310 Speaker 1: But three days later, he had proven that not even 141 00:09:51,510 --> 00:09:55,190 Speaker 1: death could hold the Son of Man, and that the 142 00:09:55,270 --> 00:09:59,770 Speaker 1: enemy's schemes were no match for the perfect plan of 143 00:09:59,809 --> 00:10:05,140 Speaker 1: the Father. But rather than returning with trumpets, fires, or earthquakes, 144 00:10:06,080 --> 00:10:10,179 Speaker 1: Jesus walked with them, ate with them, and taught them 145 00:10:10,380 --> 00:10:14,640 Speaker 1: just as he always had. On the surface, they felt 146 00:10:14,679 --> 00:10:19,819 Speaker 1: like nothing had changed. Yet there was something distinctly different now. 147 00:10:20,720 --> 00:10:25,900 Speaker 1: An unseen aura radiated from Jesus that let them know 148 00:10:26,000 --> 00:10:29,870 Speaker 1: in their souls that nothing would ever be the same. 149 00:10:31,330 --> 00:10:35,270 Speaker 1: The group ate in relative silence. The air was unusually 150 00:10:35,370 --> 00:10:39,050 Speaker 1: still and only helped to amplify the silence of their meal. 151 00:10:40,290 --> 00:10:45,540 Speaker 1: Each day came with unspoken curiosities about Jesus' plan on 152 00:10:45,679 --> 00:10:49,100 Speaker 1: this side of the grave. However, not wanting to seem 153 00:10:49,160 --> 00:10:53,400 Speaker 1: doubtful of Jesus' mission, none of them dared to ask 154 00:10:53,420 --> 00:10:55,920 Speaker 1: him to share more than what he did on his 155 00:10:55,980 --> 00:11:00,260 Speaker 1: own accord. Peter was the most concerned about coming off 156 00:11:00,400 --> 00:11:04,630 Speaker 1: as an opponent to Jesus. With a twinge of pain 157 00:11:04,790 --> 00:11:08,130 Speaker 1: in his heart, he remembered how Jesus had called him 158 00:11:08,250 --> 00:11:12,770 Speaker 1: Satan for rebuking Jesus' revelation of his death, and again 159 00:11:12,990 --> 00:11:16,590 Speaker 1: he cringed as he remembered denying the Lord three times. 160 00:11:17,360 --> 00:11:21,840 Speaker 1: In his most desperate hour, Peter closed his eyes softly 161 00:11:22,720 --> 00:11:27,130 Speaker 1: and took a breath. In these moments of condemnation, he 162 00:11:27,210 --> 00:11:31,470 Speaker 1: knew that Jesus' love was the only hope of finding 163 00:11:31,570 --> 00:11:36,750 Speaker 1: forgiveness within himself. He reminded himself of Jesus' words immediately 164 00:11:37,050 --> 00:11:42,960 Speaker 1: after his resurrection. Three times Jesus questioned Peter's affection for him, 165 00:11:43,740 --> 00:11:47,180 Speaker 1: and three times Peter reaffirmed with his heart that he 166 00:11:47,260 --> 00:11:52,330 Speaker 1: loved the Lord. Despite his failures, Jesus had restored him, 167 00:11:53,110 --> 00:11:57,630 Speaker 1: and he knew with full assurance that nothing could take 168 00:11:57,670 --> 00:12:01,380 Speaker 1: that away. Peter sat up straight and turned to Jesus. 169 00:12:02,120 --> 00:12:04,559 Speaker 1: He spoke firmly but kindly. 170 00:12:05,100 --> 00:12:09,000 Speaker 2: Lord, at the risk of spoiling our happy little lunch, 171 00:12:09,559 --> 00:12:12,080 Speaker 2: can I just say what we're all thinking? 172 00:12:12,500 --> 00:12:13,930 Speaker 5: It's never stopped you before. 173 00:12:14,429 --> 00:12:19,190 Speaker 2: Well, it's just... Now that you're back, when will we 174 00:12:19,250 --> 00:12:23,750 Speaker 2: start the next phase of your plan? I mean, no offense, 175 00:12:24,230 --> 00:12:27,620 Speaker 2: but surely sitting here to eat lunch with us isn't 176 00:12:27,700 --> 00:12:28,939 Speaker 2: why you rose from the dead. 177 00:12:29,420 --> 00:12:32,319 Speaker 6: I take no offense to your words, though I don't 178 00:12:32,360 --> 00:12:33,380 Speaker 6: believe the offense was. 179 00:12:33,280 --> 00:12:33,959 Speaker 5: Mine to take. 180 00:12:34,540 --> 00:12:36,839 Speaker 1: Jesus winked at the disciples as he said this. 181 00:12:37,340 --> 00:12:38,089 Speaker 5: But you are right. 182 00:12:38,620 --> 00:12:42,150 Speaker 6: Much more must be accomplished in order to see the will... 183 00:12:42,480 --> 00:12:43,939 Speaker 6: the father fulfilled. 184 00:12:44,880 --> 00:12:48,400 Speaker 2: Does that mean we'll be leaving jerusalem soon we won't 185 00:12:48,500 --> 00:12:53,170 Speaker 2: be is that to say you won't be staying. 186 00:12:52,800 --> 00:12:56,689 Speaker 1: With us jesus eyes were full of deep love for 187 00:12:56,710 --> 00:13:00,910 Speaker 1: the disciples during their years together he had always been 188 00:13:00,970 --> 00:13:03,990 Speaker 1: mindful of their struggles to understand what he was doing 189 00:13:04,950 --> 00:13:08,950 Speaker 1: compassion had always motivated him to lead the disciples through 190 00:13:09,110 --> 00:13:13,959 Speaker 1: each new challenge But he knew the following words would 191 00:13:14,040 --> 00:13:16,439 Speaker 1: start their most significant challenge. 192 00:13:17,080 --> 00:13:19,760 Speaker 6: In a certain way, yes, I won't be staying with you. 193 00:13:20,210 --> 00:13:23,570 Speaker 6: But in a greater way, you must know by now 194 00:13:23,640 --> 00:13:25,470 Speaker 6: that I will never truly leave you. 195 00:13:26,150 --> 00:13:29,930 Speaker 1: The disciples took great comfort in his words, even if 196 00:13:30,010 --> 00:13:33,330 Speaker 1: they didn't fully comprehend what he meant by the apparent 197 00:13:33,429 --> 00:13:34,530 Speaker 1: paradox in what. 198 00:13:34,429 --> 00:13:34,990 Speaker 7: He was saying. 199 00:13:35,850 --> 00:13:38,229 Speaker 2: What shall we do? Where shall we go? 200 00:13:39,110 --> 00:13:42,010 Speaker 1: Peter was eager to do all that Jesus commanded him. 201 00:13:43,230 --> 00:13:47,510 Speaker 1: The hunger to lead was quickly revitalizing itself in Peter's veins. 202 00:13:48,650 --> 00:13:52,480 Speaker 1: He envisioned what being the rock meant in this new 203 00:13:52,580 --> 00:13:57,760 Speaker 1: paradigm of Jesus' resurrection. He felt pride beginning to grow 204 00:13:57,900 --> 00:14:02,040 Speaker 1: small roots and quickly reminded himself of Jesus' words on 205 00:14:02,080 --> 00:14:07,030 Speaker 1: the beach, Feed my sheep. He couldn't take any credit 206 00:14:07,070 --> 00:14:09,510 Speaker 1: for what God had done through him up to this point, 207 00:14:10,550 --> 00:14:13,090 Speaker 1: just as much as he couldn't blame him for his 208 00:14:13,170 --> 00:14:17,370 Speaker 1: missteps and failures. He knew there was nothing he could 209 00:14:17,429 --> 00:14:22,210 Speaker 1: do in his own power. Though learning that lesson had 210 00:14:22,270 --> 00:14:28,020 Speaker 1: come with difficulty, Peter now found it comforting. He knew 211 00:14:28,140 --> 00:14:31,700 Speaker 1: Jesus would sustain him and the rest of the disciples 212 00:14:32,460 --> 00:14:33,900 Speaker 1: through whatever lay ahead. 213 00:14:34,650 --> 00:14:38,510 Speaker 6: Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my 214 00:14:38,650 --> 00:14:43,650 Speaker 6: father has promised. He who I spoke of before my betrayal. 215 00:14:44,430 --> 00:14:47,150 Speaker 6: You will have much to do, but none can be 216 00:14:47,190 --> 00:14:48,550 Speaker 6: done without him. 217 00:14:49,210 --> 00:14:50,090 Speaker 5: Without him? 218 00:14:50,110 --> 00:14:52,369 Speaker 8: Are you not the one who will lead us on 219 00:14:52,430 --> 00:14:52,810 Speaker 8: our mission? 220 00:14:53,350 --> 00:14:59,220 Speaker 1: Jesus smiled graciously at Andrew. The disciples would always have questions, 221 00:15:00,000 --> 00:15:02,500 Speaker 1: and Jesus knew the answer he was about to give. 222 00:15:03,320 --> 00:15:05,500 Speaker 1: would be better than anything else he could offer them 223 00:15:05,900 --> 00:15:06,820 Speaker 1: in this next season. 224 00:15:07,320 --> 00:15:09,820 Speaker 5: I have shared many lessons with you regarding my spirit. 225 00:15:10,540 --> 00:15:13,300 Speaker 6: It is he who empowered me during my time with you. 226 00:15:13,330 --> 00:15:17,170 Speaker 6: Think back to when we first met, Andrew. Do you 227 00:15:17,190 --> 00:15:17,990 Speaker 6: remember that day? 228 00:15:18,570 --> 00:15:19,570 Speaker 5: Of course, Lord. 229 00:15:20,410 --> 00:15:23,410 Speaker 8: It was after your baptism. And what a glorious time 230 00:15:23,450 --> 00:15:26,080 Speaker 8: that was. What I wouldn't have given to be there 231 00:15:26,100 --> 00:15:28,900 Speaker 8: when the heavens opened up. I can't imagine any of 232 00:15:28,940 --> 00:15:30,700 Speaker 8: the stories I've heard do it justice. 233 00:15:31,620 --> 00:15:34,600 Speaker 6: I can assure you the stories have more power for 234 00:15:34,660 --> 00:15:38,160 Speaker 6: you than you know. And they will continue to embolden 235 00:15:38,230 --> 00:15:42,910 Speaker 6: my people. But beyond the stories, there is something, or 236 00:15:42,930 --> 00:15:47,090 Speaker 6: should I say, someone, who will give you even greater 237 00:15:47,570 --> 00:15:51,550 Speaker 6: strength and an everlasting hope. Believe it or not, I 238 00:15:51,970 --> 00:15:53,950 Speaker 6: meant it when I said it would be better if 239 00:15:54,030 --> 00:15:58,500 Speaker 6: I left. In many ways, I will still be with you. 240 00:15:59,040 --> 00:16:04,120 Speaker 1: The disciples marveled at Jesus' words. They leaned forward. Their 241 00:16:04,180 --> 00:16:09,180 Speaker 1: hearts began to race. Could anything really be better if 242 00:16:09,280 --> 00:16:13,370 Speaker 1: Jesus left? He had been their teacher regarding all things 243 00:16:13,430 --> 00:16:18,570 Speaker 1: about God and his kingdom, their pillar of strength through persecution, 244 00:16:19,490 --> 00:16:24,390 Speaker 1: their strong tower in times of trouble, and their peace 245 00:16:25,130 --> 00:16:28,630 Speaker 1: in the storms of anxiety, doubt, and fear. 246 00:16:29,200 --> 00:16:32,340 Speaker 6: In the early days of my ministry, John baptized a 247 00:16:32,460 --> 00:16:36,120 Speaker 6: baptism of repentance with water. But just as I was 248 00:16:36,200 --> 00:16:40,200 Speaker 6: baptized in the Spirit, I now share that gift with you. 249 00:16:41,160 --> 00:16:43,780 Speaker 6: In a few days, you will be baptized with the 250 00:16:43,840 --> 00:16:47,260 Speaker 6: Holy Spirit. It is with him that you will do 251 00:16:47,480 --> 00:16:49,880 Speaker 6: more wondrous works than I. 252 00:16:51,600 --> 00:16:56,060 Speaker 1: There was a deafening silence as this revolutionary news danced 253 00:16:56,140 --> 00:17:01,840 Speaker 1: around their minds. delving into their hearts. Surely the Spirit 254 00:17:01,860 --> 00:17:05,500 Speaker 1: had been with them this whole time, but it was 255 00:17:05,640 --> 00:17:09,600 Speaker 1: evident that this baptism of the Spirit held an even 256 00:17:09,780 --> 00:17:14,870 Speaker 1: greater significance than just his presence with them. Jesus spoke 257 00:17:14,930 --> 00:17:18,850 Speaker 1: of intimacy with the Spirit. This was the beginning of 258 00:17:18,990 --> 00:17:24,330 Speaker 1: something new and unheard of. The baptism of the Spirit 259 00:17:24,990 --> 00:17:28,280 Speaker 1: was more than just a new mission. It was the 260 00:17:28,359 --> 00:17:34,140 Speaker 1: beginning of new, fresh life. They wondered if they were 261 00:17:34,200 --> 00:17:38,399 Speaker 1: ready for everything it entailed. With each word Jesus shared, 262 00:17:39,020 --> 00:17:41,820 Speaker 1: it was as though scales were falling from their eyes. 263 00:17:42,570 --> 00:17:46,369 Speaker 1: They could see the world more clearly in the light 264 00:17:46,410 --> 00:17:51,540 Speaker 1: of the Father's perfect plan unfolding before them. Their musings 265 00:17:51,640 --> 00:17:54,440 Speaker 1: bubbled over with a plea to know what Jesus would 266 00:17:54,480 --> 00:17:54,940 Speaker 1: do next. 267 00:17:55,580 --> 00:18:00,080 Speaker 2: Lord, is it finally time? Are you going to restore 268 00:18:00,100 --> 00:18:01,179 Speaker 2: the kingdom to Israel? 269 00:18:01,700 --> 00:18:04,330 Speaker 6: I shared this with you and the Sons of Thunder 270 00:18:04,390 --> 00:18:07,730 Speaker 6: on the mountain at my transfiguration. But for the benefit 271 00:18:07,770 --> 00:18:11,250 Speaker 6: of the others here, I'll say it again. I'm sure 272 00:18:11,290 --> 00:18:14,050 Speaker 6: it's hard to accept, but it is not for you 273 00:18:14,130 --> 00:18:17,270 Speaker 6: to know the times or the dates the Father has 274 00:18:17,369 --> 00:18:18,470 Speaker 6: set by his authorities. 275 00:18:19,330 --> 00:18:21,210 Speaker 5: Of course, this is no mark against you. 276 00:18:22,150 --> 00:18:26,310 Speaker 6: But my father works in mysterious ways that no human 277 00:18:26,390 --> 00:18:27,670 Speaker 6: could ever comprehend. 278 00:18:28,330 --> 00:18:32,710 Speaker 1: At this, the disciples' shoulders slumped over so slightly. Any 279 00:18:32,750 --> 00:18:36,950 Speaker 1: time a question of timing was posed to Jesus, obscurity 280 00:18:37,030 --> 00:18:41,590 Speaker 1: was always involved. And time seemed to be an enigma 281 00:18:42,150 --> 00:18:45,300 Speaker 1: when it came to Jesus' plans. They did their best 282 00:18:45,340 --> 00:18:48,540 Speaker 1: to fight the confusion and stay focused on their faith. 283 00:18:49,380 --> 00:18:50,240 Speaker 5: Do not worry. 284 00:18:51,040 --> 00:18:54,219 Speaker 6: There is good news to be had while waiting. You 285 00:18:54,300 --> 00:18:58,080 Speaker 6: are to stay here in Jerusalem, where you will receive power, 286 00:18:58,740 --> 00:19:03,000 Speaker 6: a power unlike any you've ever seen before. Kings could 287 00:19:03,160 --> 00:19:05,550 Speaker 6: only wish for authority like this. 288 00:19:06,210 --> 00:19:11,050 Speaker 1: And just like that, Jesus had pulverized their doubts and 289 00:19:11,130 --> 00:19:16,149 Speaker 1: laid the foundation for courage again. Like a master craftsman, 290 00:19:16,869 --> 00:19:21,730 Speaker 1: he chiseled away at their hearts. Precisely and patiently. 291 00:19:22,270 --> 00:19:25,850 Speaker 6: The Holy Spirit will descend upon you, filling you with 292 00:19:26,150 --> 00:19:27,910 Speaker 6: unimaginable power. 293 00:19:28,369 --> 00:19:31,609 Speaker 1: Their eyes sparkled in amazement at the very thought. 294 00:19:32,250 --> 00:19:33,250 Speaker 5: Remember his purpose. 295 00:19:34,020 --> 00:19:37,520 Speaker 6: He comes to testify of me. And when he empowers you, 296 00:19:38,260 --> 00:19:40,220 Speaker 6: you too will be my witnesses. 297 00:19:40,840 --> 00:19:44,159 Speaker 8: And are we to stay here in Jerusalem? How will 298 00:19:44,200 --> 00:19:46,040 Speaker 8: we know what to do when all this has come 299 00:19:46,080 --> 00:19:46,560 Speaker 8: to pass? 300 00:19:47,060 --> 00:19:47,620 Speaker 5: Yes, Andrew. 301 00:19:48,340 --> 00:19:51,240 Speaker 6: There will be work to do here in Jerusalem I 302 00:19:51,280 --> 00:19:54,139 Speaker 6: know I've stirred the pot quite a bit, but Jerusalem 303 00:19:54,240 --> 00:19:57,609 Speaker 6: is only the start. The Helper will direct your steps, 304 00:19:58,410 --> 00:20:01,810 Speaker 6: and it's time. You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem 305 00:20:01,830 --> 00:20:06,649 Speaker 6: and beyond, to Judea and Sumeria and the ends of 306 00:20:06,690 --> 00:20:10,219 Speaker 6: the earth. The Spirit will bring forth my gospel message 307 00:20:10,580 --> 00:20:12,500 Speaker 6: with unstoppable force. 308 00:20:13,260 --> 00:20:17,060 Speaker 1: Like a garden in heavy rain after a drought, the 309 00:20:17,119 --> 00:20:23,550 Speaker 1: disciples vigorously soaked up every word Jesus shared. Following Jesus 310 00:20:23,590 --> 00:20:27,949 Speaker 1: had become natural to them over the years. Yet everything 311 00:20:28,109 --> 00:20:33,670 Speaker 1: he said spoke of the supernatural, a mission beyond themselves, 312 00:20:34,710 --> 00:20:38,240 Speaker 1: and a life that would lead the world with unprecedented 313 00:20:38,310 --> 00:20:43,290 Speaker 1: hope and transformation. Sweat dripped from their brows, but it 314 00:20:43,330 --> 00:20:45,629 Speaker 1: was hard to tell if it was from the heat 315 00:20:45,790 --> 00:20:49,590 Speaker 1: of the glaring sun or the welling up of anticipation 316 00:20:50,170 --> 00:20:54,030 Speaker 1: for the arrival of the Advocate. Each man who stood 317 00:20:54,130 --> 00:21:00,750 Speaker 1: before Jesus knew this promised gift would start a cataclysmic 318 00:21:00,950 --> 00:21:06,460 Speaker 1: chain of events spreading across the world. Clouds gently sailed 319 00:21:06,500 --> 00:21:12,220 Speaker 1: through the skies before anchoring themselves directly overhead, dampening the sunlight. 320 00:21:13,720 --> 00:21:17,070 Speaker 1: Jesus peered up and let out a sigh, but this 321 00:21:17,119 --> 00:21:21,130 Speaker 1: was not a sigh of dejection or weariness. This was 322 00:21:21,190 --> 00:21:25,209 Speaker 1: the exhale of one catching their breath after a job 323 00:21:25,290 --> 00:21:30,990 Speaker 1: well done. Though he came from eternity, the humanity in 324 00:21:31,050 --> 00:21:35,949 Speaker 1: him felt the sorrow of saying goodbye. He lifted his 325 00:21:36,150 --> 00:21:40,760 Speaker 1: arms and smiled, addressing them one final time. 326 00:21:41,160 --> 00:21:44,160 Speaker 6: My friends, to say our time together was short would 327 00:21:44,180 --> 00:21:48,800 Speaker 6: be an understatement. Each of you has grown tremendously, and 328 00:21:48,820 --> 00:21:50,120 Speaker 6: I'm oh so very. 329 00:21:50,000 --> 00:21:50,540 Speaker 2: Proud of you. 330 00:21:50,980 --> 00:21:54,740 Speaker 1: The disciples knew the tone of Jesus' voice. They were 331 00:21:54,780 --> 00:21:59,540 Speaker 1: no strangers to parting words, leaving their family and friends 332 00:21:59,700 --> 00:22:03,830 Speaker 1: regularly to travel with Jesus. They could feel an imminent 333 00:22:03,930 --> 00:22:08,060 Speaker 1: goodbye coming as the heavy weight of sadness pressed on 334 00:22:08,100 --> 00:22:12,560 Speaker 1: their hearts like a millstone. Tears sat in the corner 335 00:22:12,580 --> 00:22:17,100 Speaker 1: of their eyes as a whirlwind of mourning and joy 336 00:22:17,280 --> 00:22:21,280 Speaker 1: intermingled in their souls. All they could do was listen 337 00:22:21,859 --> 00:22:27,139 Speaker 1: with trepidation. Before they could ready themselves for the inevitable, 338 00:22:27,880 --> 00:22:29,760 Speaker 1: Jesus bid them farewell. 339 00:22:30,300 --> 00:22:32,920 Speaker 6: Goodbye for now, my good and faithful servants. 340 00:22:33,720 --> 00:22:37,240 Speaker 5: Do not fear. for I would be with you. 341 00:22:37,700 --> 00:22:42,219 Speaker 1: Before their eyes, Jesus began to levitate off the ground 342 00:22:43,020 --> 00:22:46,860 Speaker 1: like an invisible army of angels hoisted in the air. 343 00:22:47,700 --> 00:22:51,160 Speaker 1: The disciples felt a strong gust of wind push them back, 344 00:22:52,119 --> 00:22:55,420 Speaker 1: leaving them in a state of tumult. The wind had 345 00:22:55,500 --> 00:22:59,960 Speaker 1: no discernible origin, but was sweeping from the ground towards 346 00:23:00,000 --> 00:23:04,919 Speaker 1: the heavens. It cast rocks ricocheting against one another, and 347 00:23:05,040 --> 00:23:09,639 Speaker 1: bent back crackling boughs of nearby trees. The blend of 348 00:23:09,760 --> 00:23:13,700 Speaker 1: sounds was like a natural aria of stones and flora 349 00:23:13,980 --> 00:23:21,430 Speaker 1: crying out. Creation itself was praising its creator. The disciples' 350 00:23:21,609 --> 00:23:26,369 Speaker 1: eyes never left Jesus during his ascent. The further away 351 00:23:26,430 --> 00:23:30,970 Speaker 1: he got from them, the nearer they subconsciously drew towards 352 00:23:31,130 --> 00:23:36,100 Speaker 1: one another in solidarity. The clouds began to shift once more, 353 00:23:36,869 --> 00:23:41,609 Speaker 1: as though heaven was constructing a door to welcome the 354 00:23:41,810 --> 00:23:47,210 Speaker 1: king home. Time seemed to be irrelevant. No man could 355 00:23:47,290 --> 00:23:51,930 Speaker 1: say whether seconds or hours had passed, nor did they 356 00:23:52,050 --> 00:23:57,460 Speaker 1: dare look away, afraid they might miss a magnificent celestial 357 00:23:57,520 --> 00:24:03,180 Speaker 1: event above. Seemingly, out of nowhere, Two men of great 358 00:24:03,260 --> 00:24:07,700 Speaker 1: stature stood to the left of the disciples. Their attire 359 00:24:07,800 --> 00:24:11,240 Speaker 1: was the first sign that these men were not of 360 00:24:11,320 --> 00:24:16,399 Speaker 1: any earthly community. Their robes were woven of immaculate white 361 00:24:16,600 --> 00:24:21,180 Speaker 1: linen and sparkled in the light like polished granite. 362 00:24:21,740 --> 00:24:23,610 Speaker 7: Men of Galilee! 363 00:24:23,990 --> 00:24:27,859 Speaker 1: The disciples were aghast and jumped back. Their heads swiveled 364 00:24:27,900 --> 00:24:31,100 Speaker 1: around to find the booming voice that drew their attention 365 00:24:31,160 --> 00:24:35,260 Speaker 1: from the miracle they witnessed. What they saw stunned them. 366 00:24:35,840 --> 00:24:40,080 Speaker 1: Two large men had drawn only a few paces away 367 00:24:40,640 --> 00:24:45,159 Speaker 1: without so much as a sound. Surely they would have 368 00:24:45,200 --> 00:24:49,520 Speaker 1: heard them approaching, but their sudden appearance indicated that they 369 00:24:49,619 --> 00:24:52,619 Speaker 1: likely hadn't walked to greet the disciples. 370 00:24:53,280 --> 00:24:56,530 Speaker 7: Why do you stand here looking into the skies? The 371 00:24:56,650 --> 00:25:00,210 Speaker 7: same Jesus who has been taken from you into heaven 372 00:25:00,930 --> 00:25:03,780 Speaker 7: will come back in the same way you have seen 373 00:25:03,820 --> 00:25:05,660 Speaker 7: him go into heaven. 374 00:25:06,859 --> 00:25:10,580 Speaker 1: The disciples quickly bounced their eyes toward one another before 375 00:25:10,680 --> 00:25:13,640 Speaker 1: darting them back to the skies. And in a blink 376 00:25:13,660 --> 00:25:18,570 Speaker 1: of an eye, the clouds careened together like waves breaking 377 00:25:18,869 --> 00:25:23,430 Speaker 1: against a promontory. The disciples were left with more questions 378 00:25:23,850 --> 00:25:28,090 Speaker 1: than answers. But more importantly, they were left with a 379 00:25:28,230 --> 00:25:32,310 Speaker 1: promise that would be the key to unlocking the mystery 380 00:25:32,690 --> 00:25:37,520 Speaker 1: of God's plan to spread the gospel message to the 381 00:25:37,740 --> 00:25:42,280 Speaker 1: ends of the earth. They knew this was the definitive 382 00:25:42,400 --> 00:25:46,699 Speaker 1: end to the first chapter of their ministry. But it 383 00:25:46,820 --> 00:25:50,050 Speaker 1: certainly wasn't the end of the story. 384 00:25:53,369 --> 00:25:57,850 Speaker 4: Jesus' final instructions to his disciples were to wait. This 385 00:25:57,910 --> 00:26:01,119 Speaker 4: might sound like a simple request, but it's packed with significance. 386 00:26:01,630 --> 00:26:04,340 Speaker 4: We all know that waiting's hard, and we have to 387 00:26:04,359 --> 00:26:08,879 Speaker 4: understand this. Waiting isn't passive. It's an active preparation for 388 00:26:08,920 --> 00:26:11,280 Speaker 4: what's to come. You know, I used to wait tables 389 00:26:11,500 --> 00:26:16,540 Speaker 4: back in the day, and waiting tables was anything but passive. 390 00:26:17,060 --> 00:26:20,840 Speaker 4: We were constantly on the move, constantly taking orders, and 391 00:26:21,160 --> 00:26:24,490 Speaker 4: constantly serving the people around us. You see, that's kind 392 00:26:24,540 --> 00:26:27,100 Speaker 4: of what waiting on the Lord is like. Waiting on 393 00:26:27,140 --> 00:26:30,260 Speaker 4: the Lord is serving. It's serving the people around you. 394 00:26:30,340 --> 00:26:33,800 Speaker 4: It's serving Him. It's serving His purposes and His kingdom. 395 00:26:34,300 --> 00:26:36,820 Speaker 4: The disciples were not to sit idly by, but to 396 00:26:36,880 --> 00:26:40,960 Speaker 4: anticipate the promise of the Father, the Holy Spirit. Jesus' 397 00:26:41,020 --> 00:26:44,330 Speaker 4: directive underscores that sometimes the most profound work in our 398 00:26:44,390 --> 00:26:48,170 Speaker 4: lives and ministries happens in the waiting. It's in these 399 00:26:48,250 --> 00:26:50,490 Speaker 4: moments that we align our hearts with God's timing and 400 00:26:50,530 --> 00:26:54,359 Speaker 4: prepare ourselves for the next chapter. Jesus promises the disciples 401 00:26:54,400 --> 00:26:57,080 Speaker 4: that they will be baptized with the Holy Spirit. This 402 00:26:57,140 --> 00:26:59,859 Speaker 4: is more than a mere upgrade from John's baptism of water. 403 00:27:00,240 --> 00:27:04,290 Speaker 4: It's a complete immersion in divine power. Jesus acknowledges that 404 00:27:04,310 --> 00:27:06,890 Speaker 4: the task ahead, the mission to witness to the ends 405 00:27:06,930 --> 00:27:10,270 Speaker 4: of the earth, cannot be accomplished through human strength alone. 406 00:27:10,790 --> 00:27:14,100 Speaker 4: It requires the power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus has 407 00:27:14,119 --> 00:27:16,740 Speaker 4: been talking about the Holy Spirit a lot up until now, 408 00:27:17,140 --> 00:27:19,480 Speaker 4: but this concept of the Holy Spirit is very abstract 409 00:27:19,500 --> 00:27:22,629 Speaker 4: to the disciples. But as we go through our series now, 410 00:27:22,690 --> 00:27:26,110 Speaker 4: we're going to find out that the Holy Spirit is dynamic, present, 411 00:27:26,270 --> 00:27:29,770 Speaker 4: and practical. This promise wasn't just for the early church. 412 00:27:29,830 --> 00:27:32,460 Speaker 4: It's a continual promise for every believer, you and I, 413 00:27:32,710 --> 00:27:35,379 Speaker 4: who would testify to the name of Jesus. If the 414 00:27:35,400 --> 00:27:37,780 Speaker 4: glorified Jesus relied on the Holy Spirit, how much more 415 00:27:37,820 --> 00:27:41,940 Speaker 4: do we need his empowering presence in our lives? Jesus' 416 00:27:42,000 --> 00:27:44,040 Speaker 4: command to be witnesses to the end of the earth 417 00:27:44,140 --> 00:27:47,970 Speaker 4: reveals the expansive nature of the mission. The gospel is 418 00:27:48,030 --> 00:27:52,110 Speaker 4: not confined by geography, ethnicity, or social status. It's meant 419 00:27:52,150 --> 00:27:55,540 Speaker 4: for everyone. The disciples might have felt overwhelmed by this mandate, 420 00:27:55,600 --> 00:27:58,990 Speaker 4: considering their limited resources and the hostile environment that they 421 00:27:59,040 --> 00:28:02,500 Speaker 4: were going to be ministering to. Yet Jesus' words assure 422 00:28:02,540 --> 00:28:05,159 Speaker 4: them that their mission is not dependent on their abilities, 423 00:28:05,220 --> 00:28:08,620 Speaker 4: but on the power of the Holy Spirit. The gospel 424 00:28:08,660 --> 00:28:11,300 Speaker 4: spread from Jerusalem to Judea, Samaria, and the ends of 425 00:28:11,340 --> 00:28:13,810 Speaker 4: the earth, becomes a guiding framework for the book of 426 00:28:13,970 --> 00:28:17,350 Speaker 4: Acts and a reminder of our global mission here and 427 00:28:17,450 --> 00:28:21,470 Speaker 4: now and today. Yet the disciples' waiting period was essential 428 00:28:21,540 --> 00:28:25,379 Speaker 4: for their preparation. Similarly, in our own lives, periods of waiting, 429 00:28:25,440 --> 00:28:28,199 Speaker 4: whether for a new job or relationship or spiritual growth, 430 00:28:28,660 --> 00:28:31,899 Speaker 4: are not void of purpose. Use these times to deepen 431 00:28:31,920 --> 00:28:35,139 Speaker 4: your relationship with God. Seek his guidance and prepare for 432 00:28:35,180 --> 00:28:39,340 Speaker 4: the next steps he has for you. Remember, waiting often 433 00:28:39,420 --> 00:28:44,020 Speaker 4: is a precursor to great things. Just as the disciples 434 00:28:44,100 --> 00:28:46,240 Speaker 4: were to wait for the Holy Spirit, we too should 435 00:28:46,280 --> 00:28:48,760 Speaker 4: seek his presence and power in our lives in the waiting. 436 00:28:49,320 --> 00:28:51,550 Speaker 4: It's easy to rely on our own strength and resources 437 00:28:51,590 --> 00:28:54,490 Speaker 4: for things, but true effectiveness in the kingdom of God 438 00:28:54,730 --> 00:28:58,170 Speaker 4: requires the Spirit's empowerment. I want you to think about 439 00:28:58,210 --> 00:29:01,510 Speaker 4: it this way. When's the last time that you dreamed 440 00:29:01,570 --> 00:29:04,770 Speaker 4: for something that was only big enough if God showed 441 00:29:05,050 --> 00:29:08,050 Speaker 4: up and if God used his Spirit to empower you 442 00:29:08,390 --> 00:29:12,410 Speaker 4: and move things around you? Have we been praying small prayers? 443 00:29:13,090 --> 00:29:15,930 Speaker 4: You see, the disciples had a big task ahead of them, 444 00:29:16,130 --> 00:29:20,820 Speaker 4: and the big task required big power. We as disciples 445 00:29:20,880 --> 00:29:24,180 Speaker 4: of Jesus today ought to follow suit of these disciples 446 00:29:24,240 --> 00:29:27,780 Speaker 4: who sought Jesus eagerly and knew that only by his 447 00:29:27,900 --> 00:29:31,030 Speaker 4: strength would they accomplish the things ahead. As we reflect 448 00:29:31,090 --> 00:29:34,370 Speaker 4: on Acts 1, 1-11, let's remember that the ascension of 449 00:29:34,450 --> 00:29:36,990 Speaker 4: Jesus is not just a historical event, but a call 450 00:29:37,030 --> 00:29:40,180 Speaker 4: to action. It's a remember to wait with expectation, seek 451 00:29:40,200 --> 00:29:43,140 Speaker 4: the Holy Spirit's power, expand our vision for the gospel, 452 00:29:43,500 --> 00:29:46,050 Speaker 4: and live with the assurance of Christ's return. In this 453 00:29:46,090 --> 00:29:50,510 Speaker 4: grand narrative, we're not passive observers, but active participants in 454 00:29:50,530 --> 00:29:53,610 Speaker 4: the unfolding story of God's kingdom. So let's step into 455 00:29:53,670 --> 00:29:57,370 Speaker 4: our role with faith, courage, and anticipation, knowing that the 456 00:29:57,410 --> 00:30:01,370 Speaker 4: same Jesus who ascended will return. But in the meantime, 457 00:30:01,510 --> 00:30:03,650 Speaker 4: as we wait for his return, we are going to 458 00:30:03,670 --> 00:30:06,530 Speaker 4: be witnesses to the ends of the earth. I'm so 459 00:30:06,610 --> 00:30:08,780 Speaker 4: happy to be back with you as we go through 460 00:30:09,040 --> 00:30:12,080 Speaker 4: the Jesus podcast. In our next episode, we're going to 461 00:30:12,140 --> 00:30:15,640 Speaker 4: follow Peter, James, John, and all the disciples as they 462 00:30:15,780 --> 00:30:19,770 Speaker 4: figure out what's next. Have you ever been in a 463 00:30:19,810 --> 00:30:23,890 Speaker 4: time of uncertainty, not really knowing what's ahead? The disciples 464 00:30:24,230 --> 00:30:25,750 Speaker 4: certainly know that feeling.