Unstoppable! 'Growing into a New Future' — Acts 1:14-15

Saturday, January 14, 2023

[The disciples] all met together and were constantly united in prayer, along with Mary the mother of Jesus, several other women, and the brothers of Jesus.

During this time, when about 120 believers were together in one place, Peter stood up and addressed them.

— Acts 1:14-15 NLT

Key Thought

Luke reminds us throughout Acts that the early church grew. Growth showed up in greater numbers of people becoming part of Jesus' disciples. Growth also showed up in the spread of the message about Jesus — how it successfully penetrated the hearts of people from different regions and cultures. What began as a small group of eleven, soon grew to 120 believers, then 3000, then 5000, then more than could be easily counted. Luke introduces us to new disciples in Judea and Samaria (Acts 9:31). Then new disciples — both Jews and Gentiles — in Antioch, and far beyond. Luke wants us to know that faith in Jesus is a growing faith, a world faith, and an unstoppable faith!

Today's Prayer

Father, I thank you for the great numbers of people coming now to Jesus in Africa and China and other places and among refugees. Be with all those sharing their faith in Jesus with unbelievers. Lead us to those who are hungry to know Jesus and find hope. When people are not receptive, give us courage, tenacity, and kindness so that we may effectively and respectfully share Jesus. Father, please make our lethargic churches uncomfortable with our unwillingness to reach out to the lost. Open our eyes to the opportunities to share Jesus with others. I pray this in Jesus' name and by his authority. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Acts 2:46-47
  • Acts 6:7

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Illustration

Illustration of Acts 1:14-15 NLT — [The disciples] all met together and were constantly united in prayer, along with Mary the mother of Jesus, several other women, and the brothers of Jesus. During this time, when about 120 believers were together in one place, Peter stood up and addressed them.

About This Devotional

Unstoppable! is a one-year devotional guide through the book of Acts. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage, a reflection and a prayer. The reflection opens up the day's scripture and shows how it challenges one to live for Jesus.

Unstoppable! is written by Phil Ware.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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