Acts 1:1 (ESV)
In the first book, O Theophilus, I have dealt with all that Jesus began to do and teach
The Book of Luke concluded with Jesus’ grand ascension witnessed by his disciples. Thereafter, they returned to Jerusalem with great joy and continued praising him in the temple. (Luke 24:52-53)
The Book of Luke and Acts were authoured by Luke. He addressed his audience in both these books by the name, Theophilus – Luke 1:3 and Acts 1:1. Names are very important and significant. What more when the name is highlighted in the opening of a speech, letter or document. So who is Theophilus?
We’ve walked this far with Jesus and his disciples until his ascension and pondering on the ancient path. He promised us his super power. Does that qualify us as a superhero? (Since we are invested in the Lessons from MCU this season) In our human logical mind, we’ll say, “Far from it!” In actual fact…yes, it is a fact because it is true – we are superheroes in every right, being already empowered by the One whose power never deplete. We are a dynamo or dynamite! Take a sec…
But, what does God desire of us? Luke opened both his writings in these books with addressing Theophilus. Theophilus in Greek means “lover of God”. Some commentators think it actually refers to one single person, probably of high political and social standing as Luke 1:3 calls him, “most excellent”. Some believe it is a label designated to a general audience who are struggling, who loves God. My intention is not to dispute over these views.
The name intrigued me and made me wonder how God will address us. Are we Theophilus – lover of God?
The struggles of this world. The death of Jesus. His resurrection. His supernatural appearances forty days after he was risen. His ascension. It is not the end. He gave a command, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19-20); and coupled with a promise of “the power from on high”. (Luke 24:49) Seems like a tall order to be a superhero. Jesus left the disciples with a massive ministry. The Book of Acts majors in the impact of his apostles on the advancements of the Great Commission.
Our struggles to success can only be sustained by the surging power of our Saviour. However, our internal drive must be powered by our love for God. We must be Theophilus.
Prayer:
Declare your own devotion and affection to God.
© Pr Selina Khoo Lim, Gateway City Church, Penang. 1 May 2020.