[Jesus] appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. . . . He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. But 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.”

— Acts 1:3, 7-8

The book of Acts is not simply about the birth of the church or even the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, giving great power. Acts reveals the extension of Jesus’ work on earth, in which he uses not his human body but a different body made up of his followers—the church. That body, known today as the worldwide church of Christ, aims to live out and continue the ongoing work of Jesus as he grows his kingdom here on the earth.

Jesus hinted at this when he taught his disciples to pray, “Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10). When Jesus met with his followers, gave proof of his resurrection, and spoke with them about the kingdom of God, he was helping them understand that he was creating not a new religion but a movement that would expand around the world through them.

Thankfully the Holy Spirit gave them understanding, and we are here today as part of his church. Christ is our head, and we are his body, serving God in this world as the heart, hands, and feet of the Lord Jesus, who promises full life for all who believe in him.

Jesus, thank you for wanting to use me as part of your work in this world. Help me to serve you as you draw others to yourself. Amen.