In Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise, Jesus commands His followers not to leave Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father—the coming of the Holy Spirit. This was not an optional suggestion but a direct command. Waiting on God’s promise meant setting aside their own plans and seeking the Spirit’s power above all else. It’s a call to patient faith, trust, and obedience, believing God’s timing and provision are perfect for every believer.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
Audio
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Scriptures used in this lesson:
Zechariah 4:6, Acts 1:8, Acts 1:1, Acts 1:2-3, Romans 14:17, Acts 1:4-5, Acts 6-8, Luke 24:49, Luke 3:21-22, Luke 4:1, Luke 4:13-14, Luke 4:18-19, Acts 1:9-11, Acts 2:12-14, 1 Corinthians 15:3-8, Acts 1:25-26, 1 John 1:1, John 13:27, John 17:12, 1 Timothy 6:9-10, 1 Corinthians 9:27,
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
We lost or recorded over the first teaching of Acts chapter 1. I wanted to make sure it was in the series, so we are reteaching this chapter.
BACKGROUND AND AUTHORSHIP
Who Wrote the Book of Acts?
The book of Acts was written by Luke, who also wrote the Gospel of Luke. Luke was a physician and carefully recorded events.
Acts as a Continuing Story
Acts is a continuation of his Gospel, showing what happened after Jesus’ resurrection and ascension.
An Unfinished Story
It has 28 chapters, but it does not conclude with a conclusion. Many say that we are still writing the 29th chapter today through the ongoing work of the church.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
SIGNIFICANCE AND SCOPE OF ACTS
The Missing Amen
An interesting fact is that most books of the Bible end with the word “Amen.” However, Acts does not. There are three books in all that end without it, and Acts is one of them. This lack of a closing word reminds us that the mission of God’s people is not complete. The story continues with each new generation of believers.
Historical Setting
Luke wrote Acts around 65 A.D. The events in the book span approximately 30 years, from A.D. 30 to A.D. 65. During that time, the gospel spread across the known world without the aid of modern technology, newspapers, or broadcast systems. In just three decades, the message of Christ was carried from Jerusalem to distant lands and reached across continents.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
Transforming the World
The message of Jesus stirred strong reactions. In Acts 28:22, people told Paul that everywhere this new faith was spoken against. In Acts 17:6, Christians were described as those who “turned the world upside down.” The gospel disrupted lives, cultures, and nations. The same call remains for us today. Just as the early church changed its world, we are called to turn our world upside down for Christ as well.
PURPOSE AND PATTERN OF THE CHURCH
The purpose of the book of Acts is to show the continued work of Christ on earth through the formation of the church. It also provides a pattern for how the church should function. Christ is working today through His body, which is the church of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
Pattern for the New Testament Church
Acts demonstrates what a true New Testament church should look like. If a church is not built on that same pattern, then it is only a building with people, not the actual body of Christ.
Zechariah 4:6 reminds us that the church cannot function apart from the Holy Spirit. God said, “Not by might, not by power, but by my Spirit.”
The Role of the Holy Spirit
Zechariah 4:6
6 Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
This truth is at the heart of Acts. Just as the early church was born and empowered by the Holy Spirit, every true New Testament church must operate in a similar manner. The Spirit is the one who gives life and effectiveness to the church.
A church may gather people, collect offerings, and carry out activities, but if it does not depend on the Holy Ghost, it is not truly the church.
THE ESSENTIALS OF CHURCH LIFE
The Spirit’s work encompasses gifts such as speaking in tongues, interpretation, prophecy, miracles, faith, and healing. He also brings discernment, words of knowledge, and wisdom. At the same time, the Spirit produces the fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, meekness, temperance, and faith. Both the gifts and the fruit are needed. Together, they reveal the whole nature of Christ in the local body of believers.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
Not Tradition, but Spirit
A true New Testament church is not just a group of people meeting with traditions, customs, or formalities. The book of Acts gives us a clear pattern of what the church should be. Jesus said that signs would follow those who believe, and so the church should expect the power of the Holy Spirit to be present and visible. Without the Spirit, there is no real church.
Acts 1:8
8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
MAJOR THEMES AND OUTLINE OF ACTS
The key verse that defines this truth is Acts 1:8. It tells us that believers will receive power after the Holy Ghost comes upon them, and then they will be witnesses everywhere. The mission begins at home, then expands into surrounding areas, and ultimately extends to the farthest reaches of the earth. This was not just a plan of the apostles, but the plan of God Himself. Our calling is to continue in that pattern, beginning right where we are, and then carrying the message outward to all places.
Two-Part Outline: Peter and Paul
The book of Acts also gives a two-part outline. In chapters 1 through 12, Peter is the central figure. His ministry was primarily to the Jews in Jerusalem, Judea, and Samaria. But after chapter 12, the focus shifts. The message begins to spread further, and the center of activity moves to Antioch. Jerusalem had become stuck in its traditions and resistant to bringing Gentiles into the church. Because of this, the Spirit moved, and the base of ministry shifted to Antioch, where the gospel could continue reaching the world.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
From Acts chapter 13 through 28, the focus shifts from Peter to Paul. Paul’s ministry was to the Greeks and the Gentile world. Most of the chapters in Acts are centered on Paul’s work, illustrating how the gospel spread to the farthest reaches of the earth. His ministry comprises the larger section of the book, emphasizing the mission that extends beyond Israel.
THE OUTLINE
Acts, Chapter 1, can be outlined into several parts.
Command
The first section is the command in verses 1 through 5.
Commission
The second section is the commission, as outlined in verses 6-8.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
The Cloud
The third is the cloud in verses 9-11, when Jesus ascended into heaven.
The Commitment
The fourth is commitment, as seen in verses 12 through 14, where the disciples devoted themselves to prayer.
The Comrade
The fifth is comrade in verses 15 through 26, when Matthias was chosen to replace Judas.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
Acts begins with Jesus giving clear instructions. He told the disciples not to leave Jerusalem but to wait for the promise of the Father, the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Before highlighting this command, the writer mentions an important detail in verse one. The book was addressed to Theophilus. The name means “friend of God” or “lover of God.” It is derived from two Greek words: theos, meaning “God,” and philos, meaning “beloved friend.” Acts, then, was written to those who are friends and lovers of God, and by extension, it speaks to us as well.
Acts 1:1
1 The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach,
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
The book of Acts is written to the friend of God and the lover of God. If we are not friends of God, then its message does not apply to us. However, as believers, we are both friends and lovers of God, and we can take this book seriously and apply its teachings to our lives. It was given so that we might walk in its truth and continue the work that began in the early church.
Doing and Teaching
The opening verse tells us that Jesus began both to do and to teach. This is important. Too often, we as the church have focused on teaching without doing. Many people have heard our words but have not seen our actions. The world needs to see believers living what they teach. Jesus was the example of both action and teaching, and His followers are called to emulate Him in this way. It is not enough to talk about the kingdom. We must live it, demonstrate it, and walk in the fullness of Christ.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
For 40 days after His resurrection, Jesus showed Himself alive and gave many proofs of His victory over death. During that time, He spoke of things pertaining to the kingdom of God. That was His main subject.
The Command
Acts 1:2-3
2 Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen:
3 To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God:
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
Everything Jesus taught and demonstrated related to the kingdom of God. The church must remember this today. We easily drift into other focuses, but the central message must be the kingdom of God. All that we teach and do should point to His kingdom coming in power and reality.
Not Heaven, but Kingdom
The kingdom of God is not the same as heaven. Heaven is a future destination after this life, but the kingdom of God is a present reality. Jesus said the kingdom is within us (Luke 17:21). It is not discovered by outward observation, nor by physical senses of sight, touch, or taste. It exists first in the heart and spirit of the believer.
Romans 14:17
17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
Romans 14:17 explains that the kingdom of God is not about physical things, such as food or drink. Instead, it is righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. These qualities are found within and should be manifested in the life of every believer. Jesus’ teaching was focused more on the kingdom of God here and now than on heaven itself. The kingdom is meant to be lived out in us daily.
Acts also reminds us that Jesus gave commandments to His disciples through the Holy Spirit. He still gives direction to His people the same way. We are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, and God continues to speak to us by His Spirit. While He may use others—apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers—the greatest impartation comes directly through the Holy Spirit. He speaks to our inner man, and only through Him do we hear the living voice of Jesus guiding us today.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
Acts 1:4-5
4 And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me.
5 For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.
Commanded to Wait
In Acts 1:4, Jesus commanded His disciples not to leave Jerusalem but to wait for the promise of the Father. The promise was the Holy Ghost. This was not optional or a casual suggestion. It was a direct command from the Lord. They were told to set aside time and wait until the promise came.
The pattern often seen in Acts is salvation first, followed by water baptism, and then the baptism of the Holy Spirit. These three steps recur frequently in the early church. Jesus stressed that His followers must wait for and long for the filling of the Spirit. It was not enough to believe and be baptized. The Spirit was essential for power and for the life of the church.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
John had baptized people in water, fully submerging them. But Jesus promised a different whelming. Believers would be immersed, overcome, and filled with the Holy Spirit. This was not only a touch of salvation but an overflowing experience. Rivers of living water would flow out from within them, just as Jesus had said.
The main point is clear. Receiving the Holy Ghost was not presented as optional. The disciples were commanded to wait until they were filled. The church today must also see the baptism of the Spirit as a necessity, not as an extra or a choice. It is the power that enables God’s people to live and act as His witnesses.
The command in Acts 1:4-5 is clear. Jesus told His disciples to wait for the promise of the Father. That promise was the baptism of the Holy Spirit. The word “baptizo” means to be fully whelmed or immersed. This shows that the baptism in the Spirit was not given as a suggestion. It was a direct command from the Lord Jesus Christ.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
The Commission
The second section is the commission found in verses 6 through 8.
Acts 1:6-8
6 When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?
7 And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.
8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
Not for You To Know
The disciples asked Jesus if He was going to restore the kingdom to Israel at that time. Jesus told them it was not for them to know the times or seasons set by the Father. Instead, their focus was to remain on the mission. In verse 8, He said they would receive power when the Holy Ghost came upon them, and then they would be His witnesses, starting at Jerusalem and reaching to the ends of the earth.
In Acts 1:8, Jesus promised that believers would receive power when the Holy Ghost came upon them. The word “power” is derived from the Greek word “dunamis.” This means miraculous power, force, ability, and abundance. It is the same kind of power that Jesus Himself demonstrated. This is the power that comes with the baptism of the Holy Spirit. When the promise of the Father is received, it gives believers supernatural ability and strength that surpasses their own.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
Receiving and Clothed with Power
The word receive comes from the Greek word lambano. It means to take hold of, to seize, or to grasp firmly. Jesus was saying that believers must not only wait for the promise but also take hold of it. This power is available, but it must be personally received and embraced. It is not passive but something to actively lay hold of by faith.
The disciples already belonged to Christ, and their names were written in the Book of Life. Yet, Acts 2 shows that they still needed this experience. It was not the same as salvation. The baptism in the Holy Spirit was an additional and separate experience, bringing a greater dimension of God’s power into their lives.
Luke 24:49 confirms this when Jesus told them to wait until they were clothed with power from on high. This shows that salvation brings new life, but the Spirit’s baptism empowers that life for ministry and witness.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
Luke 24:49
49 And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.
Jesus told His disciples to wait in Jerusalem until they were endued with power from on high. The word endued means to be clothed upon. It describes being covered or wrapped in the dunamis power of God. Without this covering, the church is left spiritually naked. Many believers are not walking in the fullness of what God intended because they have not been clothed with this miraculous power of the Spirit.
This power extends beyond teaching and knowledge. It is the ability of God resting upon us to accomplish His work. The baptism of the Spirit clothes the believer with supernatural strength. Without it, the church struggles to fulfill its mission. Jesus was clear: only after the Holy Spirit came upon them would they be able to walk in this abundance of power.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
The phrase “after that” is essential. It shows there is an additional step beyond salvation. Believers may already be saved, but the baptism in the Spirit brings them to a higher level. There is a transition from new life in Christ to walking in supernatural ability. The church must understand that this “after that” experience is critical. It is through this clothing of power that God equips His people to live and minister in His kingdom.
Luke 3:21-22
21 Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened,
22 And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
In Luke 3:21, we read that Jesus was baptized in water by John the Baptist. But the passage notes that He was still praying. Even after water baptism, Jesus was seeking something more. As He prayed, heaven opened and the Holy Spirit descended upon Him in the form of a dove. At that moment, the Father’s voice declared that Jesus was His beloved Son, pleasing in His sight.
Two Separate Experiences
This shows clearly that there were two separate experiences. First came water baptism, and then came the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Jesus received the Spirit’s power, but it is vital to notice what followed. He did not immediately begin performing miracles or healing. The power was present, but He had not yet moved into ministry. There was still one more step in the preparation.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
In Luke chapter 4, we see Jesus full of the Holy Ghost, but He was then led into the wilderness. It is only after this time of testing and obedience that He returned in the power of the Spirit. This shows the progression. Receiving the Spirit is one vital step, but walking in His dunamis power requires being clothed, tested, and prepared. Without this, many believers remain without the fullness of the power God intends for their lives.
Luke 4:1
1 And Jesus being full of the Holy Ghost returned from Jordan, and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness,
Testing Before Power
After His baptism, Jesus was full of the Holy Ghost and led by the Spirit into the wilderness. Before He ever performed a miracle or healed anyone, He first faced temptation. In the wilderness, He was tested in three areas: the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. He overcame the devil in each of these trials before stepping into the fullness of dunamis power for ministry.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
And then look at verse 13,
Luke 4:13-14
13 And when the devil had ended all the temptation, he departed from him for a season.
14 And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into Galilee: and there went out a fame of him through all the region round about.
Overcoming Unlocks Power
This teaches us that victory comes the same way. Many are still struggling in these areas and wondering where the power of God is. The dunamis is released only when Satan is overcome. When we stand firm, resist him, and put him under our feet, we come out of the wilderness with authority and power.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
Luke records that once this happened, Jesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit. His fame spread quickly, and He taught in the synagogues, glorified by all. The overcoming of temptation prepared Him to minister in the Spirit with boldness and power.
Luke 4:18-19
18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised,
19 To preach the acceptable year of the Lord.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
In Luke 4:18, Jesus declared, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me.” This happened after the wilderness. It was only after He overcame temptation and defeated the devil that the anointing was made manifest. Then He was sent to preach good news, heal the brokenhearted, bring deliverance, restore sight to the blind, set the oppressed free, and declare the acceptable year of the Lord. The anointing and dunamis power flowed after He had become an overcomer.
This is also the key for us. Many believers are still struggling, fighting the same battles over and over again. Year after year, the same idols and struggles remain. Until we overcome those things, we cannot walk in the full power that God intends for us. But when we finally put idols down and defeat those bondages, God pours out dunamis power. Then we can heal the sick, raise the dead, and bring forth the kingdom as He commanded.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
The Holy Spirit first led Jesus into the wilderness to be tested. Once He overcame, He walked in complete power. We often linger too long in the wilderness, struggling in areas where He has already given us victory. But God’s promise remains sure—once we overcome, the dunamis ability is ours. Jesus told His disciples they, too, would receive this same miraculous power, being clothed with it from on high. The issue is that many are not putting on their spiritual clothes. Instead, they remain distracted, fighting battles that keep them from the ability God has already made available.
Acts 1:8
8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
In Acts 1:8, Jesus said His followers would be witnesses unto Him. The word “witness” originates from the Greek word martus, which is also the root of the English word martyr. It means being willing to die for Christ. This is more than just speaking about Jesus. It is living a life completely surrendered to Him, even to the point of giving up one’s life.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
The truth is that many Christians today struggle with even the smallest commitments. Many rarely attend church faithfully, much less embrace the call to die to self for Christ. Yet being a faithful witness is not about words alone. It is about living a life dedicated to Him, showing the reality of death to our own desires so that Christ may live through us.
Paul and Peter were genuine witnesses. They lived and died for Jesus. Their lives showed the meaning of the word martyr. Until we embrace this same mindset, our witness will remain weak. To witness “unto” Him means to be joined to Him, as someone dead to self and alive only in Christ. Colossians 3:3 teaches that our lives are hidden with Christ in God. A genuine witness has died so that Christ can shine.
Too often, people only “witness for” Jesus with empty words while their actions deny Him. The world looks on and sees hypocrisy instead of holiness. A faithful witness is not in talk but in lifestyle. It is the life of death to self that allows the life of Jesus to be revealed in us. That is the kind of witness the world needs to see.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
Too many people claim to witness for Jesus, but not enough who live as martyrs unto Him. The world sees empty words without the power of a surrendered life and responds with pity rather than conviction. Jesus called His disciples to be witnesses beginning in Jerusalem, then in Judea, Samaria, and finally to the ends of the earth. For us, that means going into our own communities—Lafayette, Trion, Sommerville—and then beyond. This is our commission and responsibility.
Yet even after much time has passed, very few churches are making a real impact in these places. The call has been given repeatedly, but little has been done. The word translated as “church” is ecclesia, meaning “the called-out ones.” God has called His church to rise up and carry out His mission. Prophetic words have been spoken over these towns repeatedly, urging believers to take action. The real question remains—are we merely witnesses for Jesus in words, or are we martyrs unto Him in our lives? The answer to that determines whether or not we will fulfill our calling.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
The Cloud
Acts 1:9-11
9 And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight.
10 And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel;
11 Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
In Acts 1:9-11, we read that as Jesus finished speaking, He was taken up and a cloud received Him out of sight. The disciples watched as He rose into heaven until two men in white appeared and spoke. They told them that the same Jesus who ascended would one day return in the same way. This same Jesus, not another, will come again.
The Glory Cloud
The cloud is significant. In the Old Testament, the cloud symbolized the glory of God. Israel followed the pillar of cloud by day, and when Moses’ tabernacle and later Solomon’s temple were completed, the glory cloud filled them. These examples used the cloud in the singular, pointing to the radiance of God’s presence. But when we come to Matthew 24 and 1 Thessalonians 4, the word shifts to “clouds” in the plural. This points to the coming of Christ with many, the saints of God. Revelation 19 confirms this with a picture of believers clothed in white and riding with Him to conquer.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
The point is clear. The ascension was not the end of the story. Just as the cloud of glory received Him, He will return with clouds of witnesses, with the saints of God. We should never doubt that there is a man in heaven now. The same Jesus who was taken up will come back in like manner and in glory.
At the ascension, the Scripture says that two men stood there in white apparel, not angels. This detail is often overlooked. Some believe they could have been Elijah and Moses, though we are not told for sure. The critical point is that the text identifies them as men, not angels, standing as witnesses to the ascension of Jesus.
The Commitment
Acts 2:12-14
12 Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is from Jerusalem a sabbath day’s journey.
13 And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James.
14 These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
After Jesus ascended, the disciples returned to Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives. They went into the upper room, where Peter, James, John, and the other apostles stayed, along with Mary, the mother of Jesus, His brothers, and several women. This gathering became the place of constant prayer and unity as they waited for the promise of the Holy Spirit.
Going Up and Going In
The passage highlights a distinction between merely coming in and going up. Many may come into faith, but not all go up into deeper fellowship with Christ. To receive the Holy Ghost, one must go into a higher realm of love, devotion, and understanding. It is a call to move beyond just entering in, to going deeper into the presence and power of God.
Most importantly, the believers were in one accord. The Greek word hamathumadon describes this unity. It means being of one mind, one spirit, and one passion. This was the atmosphere that prepared the way for Acts chapter 2. The church could not receive the Spirit until there was unity among its members.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
A true New Testament church cannot exist without this. Only when believers are united in heart, word, and love for one another can the Spirit come in power. Acts 2, the coming of the Holy Spirit, followed Acts 1 because unity came before the outpouring. The same is true today—before any actual visitation of the Holy Spirit, the church must first go into hamathumadon.
The believers in the upper room continued together in one accord, and this unity is described by the Greek word hamathumadon. It means unanimously, being in the same place at the same time with the same passion. The church was not divided, and there could be no divisions. They stood together in prayer and supplication, united in spirit and focus. This was essential for what God was about to do.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
Hamathumadon combines two Greek roots—homo, meaning “same place or time,” and thumos, meaning “passion, fierceness, or intensity.” It describes people breathing as one, driven by a shared purpose. This unity became a core principle throughout the book of Acts. It must also become a root principle in our lives and in the church today. Before the fullness of God’s kingdom can be seen, the church must stand together with the same passion, not fighting each other, but fighting the same enemy—the forces of evil.
There were about 120 believers in the upper room, and they were all united in the same spirit of prayer and supplication. They prayed together, not partially, but in complete agreement. True unity is when everyone participates with one mind and one voice. The Psalms describe this kind of unity as oil poured on Aaron’s head, flowing down to his whole body. In the same way, the anointing flows to the entire body of Christ when the church prays and lives in unity. The challenge is not only to find that unity but to keep it, guarding against anything that would cause division.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
1 Corinthians 15:3-8
3 For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;
4 And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:
5 And that he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve:
6 After that, he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep.
7 After that, he was seen of James; then of all the apostles.
8 And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
In 1 Corinthians 15:3-8, Paul reminds us of the gospel message. Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, He was buried, and He rose again on the third day. After His resurrection, Jesus appeared to Peter, then to the twelve, and later to more than 500 people at once. Yet when Acts describes the upper room, only 120 of those believers were present. That means only 25% of those who saw the risen Lord pressed on to receive the promise of the Holy Spirit.
This raises a sobering truth. Even though many believe and claim to follow Jesus, only a smaller portion are genuinely committed. On Sunday mornings, churches may fill up. On Sunday nights, the numbers drop. By Wednesday, gatherings seem to have dwindled to a remnant. The upper room that received the outpouring of the Spirit was filled by those who were consistent, committed, and faithful. They waited together in prayer until the promise came.
Only the Committed Remain
The 120 were committed to Christ, to each other, and to their city. They were determined to be in place no matter what. However, Paul’s mention of 500 witnesses suggests that many more could have been present but were not. It is sad to know that many miss their visitation, not because they are unwilling to believe, but because they are unwilling to commit. The Spirit falls where there is faithfulness. The real question today is whether we will be among the committed few or the absent many.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
In Acts 1:15, we are told that 120 believers were gathered in the upper room. But Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 15:6 that more than 500 saw the risen Christ before His ascension. That means 380 were absent. Only 25% of those who had seen Jesus remained faithful to wait for the promise. The others missed the visitation described in Acts 2:4. Only those present in the upper room experienced the mighty rushing wind, the tongues of fire, and the first outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
To be there in that moment must have been glorious beyond description. The Spirit came with power, fire rested on them, and they were filled and spoke with other tongues. Yet most who could have been there were not. They missed that historic impartation because they were not dedicated enough to wait. Commitment made the difference between receiving and missing God’s visitation.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
This is still true today. Many churches exist within a city, but very few walk in hamathumadon—the one accord unity described in Acts. Instead of coming together with passion and purpose, believers too often bicker, fuss, and find excuses to stay away from one another. Division keeps the Spirit from moving, and because of it, cities remain largely untouched by revival.
One day, God will raise up a people who will walk in unity and obedience, and through them, everything that can be shaken will be shaken. If we want to be part of that move, we must be committed and in one accord, like the 120 who waited and received the Holy Spirit. Only then will we see actual change and power in our communities.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
The main reason cities like Lafayette and those nearby are not serving Jesus Christ is that the people have never truly seen Christ working through believers. The church has not reached unity—homothumadon—either within individual congregations or across different churches. The multiple churches in one city, as listed in the phone book, testify to division rather than unity. Even inside the same church, members often argue and split apart. The world notices this lack of unity and commitment. Because of it, unbelievers are not drawn to Christ.
The answer comes down to individual commitment. Real change will not happen until each person commits to their calling and lets go of all the excuses they use to avoid assembling together, reading and studying God’s Word, and spending time in prayer. Sadly, many will miss God’s visitation simply because they are not present and not involved. If we knew that in ten days, Lafayette would have a visitation from God, but 75% of the people would miss it. Only the committed few will be part of what God is about to do.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
The Comrade
The next topic is “comrade,” which is a complex subject. It concerns Judas Iscariot, the disciple who betrayed Jesus. After Judas’ death, the remaining disciples cast lots to choose his replacement, and Matthias was selected. This story serves as a reminder that each person needs to form their own stance, grounded in God’s Word, about betrayal, faithfulness, and what it means to be a true comrade in Christ’s mission.
Acts 1:25-26
25 That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place.
26 And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
In Acts 1:25-26, Scripture explains that Matthias was chosen to take Judas’s place because Judas fell from his apostleship by transgression. This raises questions about eternal security—whether someone who was once chosen can lose their place in heaven. The passage is not dogmatic about this doctrine, recognizing the complexity of spirit, soul, and body, and how God desires to preserve all three.
1 John 1:1
1 That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life;
How well did Judas know Jesus? According to 1 John 1:1, John testifies to having heard, seen, and touched Jesus—the Word of life. Judas was included in this same “we” group. He heard Jesus with his own ears, saw Him with his eyes, and even touched Him. Judas was as close to Jesus as the other disciples, sharing in the same experiences and privileges.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
John 13 also records Judas’s presence among the disciples. His name was written among those chosen, just like the others. This leaves every reader to decide for themselves whether Judas was truly saved. The Bible does not speak only of names being written in the book of life but also of names being blotted out. The fate of Judas serves as a solemn reminder: closeness to spiritual things is not the same as genuine commitment or perseverance in faith.
But in John 13:27, it says something here about Judas,
John 13:27
27 And after the sop Satan entered into him. Then said Jesus unto him, That thou doest, do quickly.
Look at John 17:12.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
John 17:12
12 While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name: those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled.
Notice Jesus said, “None of them is lost, but the son of perdition.” A keyword is “lost.” Jesus chose them, didn’t he? Did he choose you? Has he chosen every believer? Has he written every believer’s name in the book of life? And does it talk about a blotting out that can happen?
1 Timothy 6:9-10
9 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.
10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
The topic of perdition brings up difficult questions, especially around eternal security and whether a believer can lose their salvation. This subject often leads to strong disagreements among Christians. The discussion centers on whether it’s possible for someone who once believed to fall away.
Perdition and Warnings
First Timothy 6:9-10 describes how the desire for wealth leads people into temptation, harmful desires, and ultimately destruction and perdition. The word “perdition” means utter destruction or damnation. Judas Iscariot’s downfall was his love for money—he betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. The passage warns that the love of money, not money itself, is the root of all evil.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
Some who covet after riches are “seduced from the faith.” The text uses the word “erred,” meaning they have been drawn away or seduced from their faith. This indicates it is possible to drift away from true belief and pierce oneself with many sorrows. Judas’s story is a warning: unchecked desire and misplaced love can lead even those who knew Jesus closely into ruin. The lesson is that faith must be guarded, and hearts must remain committed to Christ above anything else.
Paul preached the gospel faithfully. He began many churches and suffered greatly for his mission. Despite being stoned and bitten by a snake, he survived and continued to serve. Paul acted with true apostolic power. He did the works that Jesus did—raising the dead, healing the sick, and making the lame walk. Both miracle and dedication marked his ministry. Yet, he says in 1 Corinthians 9:27,
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
1 Corinthians 9:27
27 But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.
Discipline and Avoiding a Castaway
In 1 Corinthians 9:27, Paul says he disciplines his body and brings it under control. He does this because, after preaching to others, he does not want to become a castaway. The Greek word for “castaway” means unapproved or rejected. This is a controversial topic, but the main point is to live in such a way that you do not have to worry about falling away.
Live in Such a Way
If you do what you teach, walk the walk, and truly let Jesus live through you, then you will not have to fear being rejected. The Bible tells us to work out our own salvation with fear and trembling. We are not responsible for someone else’s salvation, only our own.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
It is possible, like Judas, to turn away from your calling. Someone can choose to walk away, though it is not easy. Jesus will try to bring that person back at every opportunity. But if someone really wants to go back, they can. Even though believers are chosen and sealed, a determined person can break that seal. Still, there is hope. We do not have to turn back. We can press on, overcome obstacles, and accomplish all things through Christ, who gives us strength. God enables us to remain faithful and victorious.
Commitment—The Urgent Message
The outline of Acts chapter one includes five main points: command, commission, cloud, commitment, and comrade. Each of these themes has an important message, but the one that seems most pressing for the church today is commitment. God is calling for a people who are fully sold out to Him—not just talking about faith, but living it out daily.
Acts Series Chapter 1: How to Wait for God’s Promise
He wants believers who are genuinely devoted, willing even to lay down their lives for the cause of Christ. The challenge is to stay faithful, keep running the race, and keep fighting the fight. As we pray together in unity—hamathumadon—we ask the Lord to help us walk in commitment, loving and serving Him with all our hearts. His Word is powerful and deserving of our devotion.
Acts Series Chapter 1 Audio
Acts Series Chapter 1 Audio
Other Related Sermons:
Ascension the Day the Kingdom Began
Satan Entered Judas Called Iscariot Luke 21:37 – 22:1-13
Judas Iscariot part 2 Luke 6:12-16 audio video notes
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