Thursday, March 22, 2007

Not The End...But The Beginning

Jesus' trial before Pilate (Mark 15:1-15) is not the end. It's not even the beginning of the end. Yes, Jesus' trial would lead to crucifixion, but it would also lead to resurrection, ascension, and glory. Jesus' trial was actually the beginning...the beginning of a mighty movement of God's Spirit in the lives of human beings that continues today. The proof is found in a simple prayer that was prayed by the early believers in Acts chapter four.

Let me set the picture for you. Peter and John had just been released from captivity. They had been arrested for healing and preaching in Jesus' name. After they were reunited with their fellow believers, they began to pray with them for boldness. Listen to what they pray:

"For in this city, in fact, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles and the peoples of Israel, gathered together against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed, to do whatever your hand and your plan had predestined to take place. And now, Lord, look at their threats, and grant to your servants to speak your word with all boldness." (vs. 27-29)

Did you catch what they prayed? The believers remembered that Herod and Pilate (along with others) had tried and crucified Jesus. However, the trials and crucifixion had not stopped the ministry of Jesus and the power of the Holy Spirit. The believers desired the same power and boldness that was exemplified in the life of Jesus.

You may be going through a trial in your own life. Don't give up. Don't stop praying. Instead, pray for the boldness to follow Jesus and trust in the power of the Holy Spirit to guide you.

1 comment:

Unknown said...

Thank you for commenting at my blog. And thanks for the thoughts.

Well written.