Acts 10:39-43, "...we are witnesses of all things which He (Jesus) did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree: Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly; Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after He rose from the dead. And He commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is He which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead. To Him give all the prophets witness, that through His name whosoever believeth in Him shall receive remission of sins."

Jesus is the exalted Son of God who died and rose again as the One who is able to redeem us from our sins.  There is nothing more important to a person than to know his sins have been forgiven by God.  God powerfully witnessed to the events of Jesus death, burial and resurrection to those who "...did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead." (vs. 41)  He then commanded them (He didn't suggest) "...to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead."  (vs. 42)  The message of the Gospel is a testimony of all that Jesus is,  He is the judge who presides and governs over the lives of those who are alive and those who are dead.  The eternal destiny of all humans will be decided by how they responded to Jesus, "To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins."

May we make Jesus the focus of our witnessing and our preaching.  If He is lifted up, He will draw all men to Himself.

Thank God for His love which is realized through His Son's death on the cross.

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATIONS

1.  Why do you think God chose certain people to whom He would reveal the risen Christ?

2.  Have you trusted Jesus Christ as your Savior?  What were the circumstances?

3.  Do you take serious Jesus commandment to witness to others?  How is this evident in your life?