Today we take a look at how the first page of the Bible gives us an incredible syllabus of how to read the rest of the Bible, how to live in God's created world, and God's impact in the chaos of our lives.  Our Read Scripture series for the year kicks off today!

Needs came from the growth of the Church, so the Apostles called others to rise up and meet those needs.  It's a beautiful picture of how we are not here to consume... we are called to CONTRIBUTE to the kingdom and to Christ's bride, The Church. 

When the Gospel is lived and preached IN PUBLIC?  It demands a response.  

We are given a contrast of two very generous gifts.  One done for the Glory of God, and one done for the glory of self.  One leads to giving the giver the new name of "Son of Encouragement", the other causes one of the swiftest and fastest judgements upon a couple in all of the New Testament.   The heart matters. 

The Apostles could have prayed for a great many things in the aftermath of their arrest, but they prayed that God would give them boldness to proclaim His Gospel to the world, and to do it well.  

There were a lot of good things happening and powerful movements of God, but the Apostles quickly learned that as God moves, the world will try to push back.  And yet they stood firm.  A powerful testimony from Acts this morning!

This morning we have a chance to really look at the two things Peter instructions believers to do and the two free gifts that are made possible because of Christ alone.  

The Falling of the Holy Spirit.  The Event that was promised.  The beginning of the Church.  

A section of scripture that should encourage us and remind us that we never again need to consult any secondary sources when we can hear from God directly through the gift of His Holy Spirit!  

Two pivotal instructions from Jesus:   Await the Spirit, and Be My Witnesses.  What a grand purpose for us in those same promises today!