The Partner's Strategy
| "But when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, you will be filled with power, and you will be witnesses for Me in Jerusalem, in all of Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." (Acts1:8) |
Living by the Last Wish of Jesus Christ
When someone dies, their last words carry deep weight. Families strive to fulfil those final wishes as a way of honouring their memory. In the same way, Jesus' final words before ascending to heaven (recorded in Acts 1:8) can be seen as His "last wish" for His followers:
"You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."
These are not optional words; they are a call, a strategy, and a command. Jesus entrusts His followers with a mission --- powered by the Holy Spirit and stretching across every boundary. To "live by the last wish of Jesus" means aligning our lives with His purpose and continuing His work in the world.
Empowered for the Mission
The key phrase "you will receive power" speaks of spiritual power, not political or military strength. The Greek word dunamis means divine enablement: miraculous ability, courage, endurance, and authority. At Pentecost, this promise became reality. The frightened disciples were transformed into bold witnesses. The same Spirit empowers us today, giving courage and clarity for the task.
Witnesses of Christ
"You will be my witnesses." A witness simply tells what they have seen and experienced. The disciples were to testify about Jesus - His death, resurrection, and saving grace. We too must speak from personal knowledge, not second-hand information. We witness to what we truly know of Christ as Saviour, Healer, and Friend.
Mission Without Borders
Jesus outlined the geography of mission: start where you are ("in Jerusalem"), move outward ("in all Judea and Samaria"), and go "to the ends of the earth." The mission begins at home---in our workplaces, communities, and relationships and then expands outward across cultures and nations. Mission is everywhere because Christ's heart is for the whole world.
Waiting and Trusting
Jesus told His disciples to wait for the Holy Spirit before going out. God's work cannot be done in human strength. We must depend on His timing and power, not our own enthusiasm. Only then can our witness be fruitful.
Charge
If you believe in Christ, honour His last wish: receive the Holy Spirit, and witness boldly to what Christ has done for you. Begin in your own context and carry the message wherever God sends you. This is The Partner's Strategy: living by the last wish of Jesus, who is the true owner of the mission.
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Reverend Norest Ajapa pastors the Mabvuku UPCSA Congregation in Harare, Zimbabwe. He's married to Stacy and blessed with a son, Jayce. He holds a bachelor of theology degree and is passionate about teaching, mentoring and inspiring people to develop their God given skills and gifts for the glory of God's Kingdom. During his free time he loves to read, repair cars, farm and travel.
