Acts 1:12-26

Wait and Work

Introduction:

It has been said by Bible teachers that the book of Acts is a, “bridge book between the four Gospels and the Epistles.” The Gospels describe the life and ministry of the Lord Jesus Christ while the Epistles unfold the life and nature of the church.

Acts chapter 1, is a preparatory prior to Pentecost. There was much good work to do before the Holy Spirit would come upon the church.

1. PATIENT OBEDIENCE

   1. God often delays – Luke 18:1-8

      1. The waiting period will not be long – v.5 (Ten days)

      2. The waiting period will not be a period of inactivity (cf. v.4- 12

2. Preparation:

   1. They practiced obedience – (upper room – v.13)

   2. They practiced fellowship – v.13,14 cf. Luke 1:46,47 Mary’s confession) See Acts 2:42 cf. Eph4:1-6

   3. They practiced prayer – v.14 (acrostic ACTS) II Tim. 3:2-4; Jam. 5:16; II Tim. 3:2

   4. They practiced Study – v.16, cf. Psalm 69:25; v.20, Psalm 109:8; Matt. 27:6-10

3. Scripture Fulfilled: Zech 11:12-13; Jer. 32:6-9

   1. The death of Judas

   2. God’s purposes cannot be frustrated

2. PROPER TIMING

   1. Choosing another apostle

      1. This man must accompanied the ministry of Christ from His inauguration to His Ascension – v.21,22; Luke 22:29-30

      2. This man must be a witness with them of the Resurrection of Christ – v.22 (Casting lots and the apostle Paul – Prov. 16:33; 18:18; Rom. 11:13. No Apostles today!

2. Lessons for Leadership:

   1. Lukewarm Church members are not the greatest hindrance to the gospel. (Apostate Pastors and Elders are)

   2. True leadership is exercised in response to the call of Christ and in obedience to the God’s word.

   3. True leadership being an imitator of Christ – I Cor. 4:15,16

   4. True leadership in the church is collegial – Heb. 13:7

   5. True leadership is service – John 13:13-15

Pastor Nick Iamaio

Reformed Presbyterian Church

207 First Street, Fulton, NY 13069

Web Site fultonrpc.org

6/7/2009