CTG 0016

JESUS-FOCUSSED

After his resurrection Jesus was preparing his disciples for the coming of the Holy Spirit, who would empower them for mission, both locally and further afield, after his ascension. It is highly significant that he spent time helping them to understand the scriptures, as they relate to HIM.

He particularly highlighted the fact that the Old Testament had foretold:
1. his suffering and death.
2. his rise to life again.
3. that the call to repentance and the good news of forgiveness in Christ should be proclaimed throughout all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.

Although these ancient writings had been committed into Jewish care, their message was not only intended for their nation. In fact, it was God's eternal plan that by means of these writings the good news about Jesus should be spread in the power of the Holy Spirit to everyone throughout the whole world. That is why Jesus helped his followers to understand the scriptures and why he instructed them to be filled with the Spirit. And it is vital that we also grasp the importance of all this, as we prepare for the task he has given us.

Both the Old Testament and the New Testament of the Bible are focussed on Christ and on the salvation that comes only through him. Miracles that take place in his name bring attention to him and confirm the message of God's grace. If our emphasis is anywhere else we'll go off course.

Stay Jesus-focussed!

Jesus' words:
"... you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be MY witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."
- Acts 1:8 ESV

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FOR FURTHER READING
Luke 24:46-49
Romans 1:1-7; 16:25-27
1 Corinthians 15:1-5
2 Timothy 3:10 to 4:5
Isaiah 52:7 to 54:3
Romans 10:11-15
Acts 1:1-11

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Hopefully, the following blog will be helpful for many people:
http://such-great-love.blogspot.co.uk/2017/03/blog-post.html

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