When the apostles asked about the restoration of the kingdom to Israel (1:6), it reflected their understanding of the kingdom of God. The kingdom of God is a literal kingdom on earth and it is closely tied to Israel because of the Old Testament prophesies. Notice that how Jesus answered them. Jesus did not correct their view which implies what the apostles believed was the correct view of the kingdom. However, Jesus told them the time was not for them to know because the kingdom is delayed. In Acts, we will see a new program begins – the Church. In the Gospels, the kingdom is near but in Acts, the focus is switched to the Church.
When Jesus not only commissioned us to be his witness (Mt 28:19-20), he also gave the resource (i.e. the Holy Spirit) to carry out His commission. We have no excuse not to evangelize this world.
Mike
What prompt the disciples to ask the question in Acts 1:6? Because Jesus told them that He is going to baptize them with the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:5). Remember in Matthew we explain that the baptism of the HS and fire refers to the selection process before entering the kingdom (Matthew 3:11). Now the selection comes, the kingdom will not be far. However, the timing should not be our focus (Acts 1:7), but being the witness of Jesus (Acts 1:8). When we know all these facts Jesus does not want us to sit there and be the experts of His kingdom. He wants to see us in action to witness for Him.
Audrey
When Jesus not only commissioned us to be his witness (Mt 28:19-20), he also gave the resource (i.e. the Holy Spirit) to carry out His commission. We have no excuse not to evangelize this world.
Mike
What prompt the disciples to ask the question in Acts 1:6? Because Jesus told them that He is going to baptize them with the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:5). Remember in Matthew we explain that the baptism of the HS and fire refers to the selection process before entering the kingdom (Matthew 3:11). Now the selection comes, the kingdom will not be far. However, the timing should not be our focus (Acts 1:7), but being the witness of Jesus (Acts 1:8). When we know all these facts Jesus does not want us to sit there and be the experts of His kingdom. He wants to see us in action to witness for Him.
Audrey
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