The Pivot
Acts 1:1–11
Pastor Philip Miller
From Then to Now
- The mission continues.
Luke opens Acts as a sequel to his Gospel, showing that Jesus’ work didn’t end with His ascension—it continues through His Spirit-empowered Church. The transition from Jesus’ earthly ministry to the activity of His followers marks a shift from “then” to “now.” What Jesus began in His person, He now carries on through His people. The risen and ascended Christ remains active, advancing His mission in the world through the Church.
From One to Many
- The mission multiplies.
Though Jesus physically leaves, He prepares His disciples for the mission ahead by promising the Holy Spirit. Once dependent on one man, the mission will now be carried out by many Spirit-filled believers. Jesus’ departure multiplies His impact—no longer confined to one location, the Gospel will spread through countless voices across the world. Ordinary, flawed individuals will become bold witnesses by the Spirit’s power.
From Us to Them
- The mission reconciles.
The disciples expect a national restoration for Israel, but Jesus redirects their focus to a global mission. The Good News is not just for “us” (Israel), but for “them”—including Samaritans, Gentiles, and even enemies. This pivot challenges deep-rooted prejudices, calling for a diverse, Spirit-united family in Christ. God’s plan is to reconcile all peoples to Himself through Jesus, creating one new, multiethnic people.
From Near to Far
- The mission radiates.
Jesus commissions His disciples to begin in Jerusalem and expand outward—Judea, Samaria, and ultimately the ends of the earth. This movement reflects the structure of Acts and God’s design to reach all nations. The Gospel is meant to radiate geographically and culturally, with no boundary too far or people too distant. Until Christ returns, the Church is called to go, scatter, and proclaim peace everywhere.
Takeaway: Will we join Jesus on mission?
The Church doesn’t just have a mission—it is the mission. As followers of Jesus, we are part of God’s unstoppable Gospel movement, empowered by His Spirit to carry His message to a broken world. The story of Acts is still being written in our time through ordinary people who surrender to Jesus’ call. The question is: will we join Him on mission?
