Acts 1:1-14
Luk, the inspired author of the book of Acts, begins his account with the ascension of the Lord Jesus into heaven, although he has already described this event at the end of his gospel. For the coming of the Holy Spirit and all the work which was destined to result from it "even unto the end of the world", springs from the presence of Christ in the glory (John 16:7). Moreover, the beginning of this book confirms that everything which the apostles subsequently do corresponds to the commandments which they have received from the Lord (vv. 2, 8) and so justifies their service for Him. "Ye shall be witnesses unto me", the Lord Jesus says to them, for their thoughts were still fixed on things of the earth (v. 6). They were being entrusted with wonderful truths concerning Him. He who had suffered was now alive (v. 3). Taken up into heaven before their eyes (v. 9), He would come again in the same manner according to the sure and certain promise announced by the angels (v. 1). They were to preach these things through the power of the Spirit which they were soon to receive (v. 8).
The first meeting after the ascension of the Lord is devoted to prayer and all the apostles are present. As we are reaching the end of the Church’s history in this world, let us be sure we are not absent from what may be the last meeting to take place before His coming again! (Hebrews 10:25).