Christianity as a movement can only be understood in relation to the spirit of the apostles, for this is a humble spirit of service that never ceases to reach out with the message of God’s healing love. That’s the Spirit that God has given to you and me, a Spirit that will not rest until the gospel has been preached in all the nations. This outreach began at Jerusalem with the first apostles. Amongst these pioneers, Peter, James, and John, were prominent leaders who provided pastoral care and doctrinal instruction. Yet their dynamic leadership was characterised by humility and service, not domination. The apostles prioritised prayer and the ministry of the Word (Acts 6:1-6) and
oversaw the appointment of other leaders to ensure equitable ministry within the growing community. Apostolic decisions, such as the ruling of the Jerusalem Council (Acts 15) demonstrate both leadership and collaborative decision-making. When the work of establishing the church in Jerusalem was done, the outreach did not cease, for it never can. Each one moved resolutely forward in obedience to the Divine commission, and for many of those who had accompanied Jesus in His earthly ministry, this would mean leaving Jerusalem to take the gospel to different parts of the ancient world. Have you allowed the fire of the Spirit to die down in your soul? Is it time to stir up the gift you have been given and move out on your next Kingdom assignment?