The first chapter of Acts gives the account of Christ’s ascension. This passage also details our orders as we await His return. In verse thirteen, we see the eleven names of the most powerful men in the Bible. They had just witnessed the ascension of the Lord. They had gathered in the upper room. It was here they tarried, waiting for the promise of God—the power of the Holy Spirit.
These Men Were in Charge
These eleven men were named in Scripture. God uses men to lead His people. As men, we should determine to be leaders in our church. We should be the first to say “Amen” and the first to serve and give. God left the disciples with the Great Commission. He had a job for them to do.
These Men Had Been Changed
- They were saved men. Often it seems we get the idea that Christianity is effeminate. Tell that to Jesus or these disciples. The opposite is true! They were tough fishermen and tradesmen.
- They were faithful men. These men stuck it out during persecution. They were faithful to Jesus and His Word.
- They were united men. Acts 1:14 tells us they were of one accord. Their focus was on one goal—to win the world. There is no place for selfishness in God’s work.
- They were praying men. We need men who can get ahold of God. We need God’s power.
- They were Spirit-filled men. These men saw 3,000 people saved at Pentecost.
- They were separated men. In this passage, they were set apart from the world in the upper room. They were holy men chosen by God.
These Men Were Challenged
These “upper room” men were mission-minded men. They knew no boundaries. We need pioneers like this today. They were motivated to win the world to Christ. Acts 17:6 says they turned the world upside down. What a testimony!
These men are our examples today. Their lives had been changed by the Saviour. They had been given a commission, and they were determined to serve the Lord with their lives. D.L. Moody once said, “The world has yet to see what God can do with and for and through and in and by the man who is fully and wholly consecrated to Him. I will try my utmost to be that man.” God uses men. May we determine to be used by Him in a great way!
