Note 5 at Acts 1:8: The Greek word used for "power" is "dunamis" and denotes miraculous power, ability, might, strength. It is the root word from which we derive our words "dynamic,""dynamite," and "dynamo." This clearly speaks of the presence and anointing of the Holy Spirit as being the power source in a believer's life.

It was this anointing power of the Holy Spirit that worked miracles in the life of Jesus (Acts 10:38). We receive the same Holy Spirit power and we can expect to see it accomplish the same miraculous works that Jesus did (Jn. 14:12) if we will believe.

Note 6 at Acts 1:8: The Lord has empowered us to be witnesses, not the judge and jury. A witness simply relates what he has experienced, thereby providing evidence to the truth of something. We are to witness in word and deed to the truth of Jesus being alive in us and let God be the one who convicts (see note 76 at Jn. 16:8, p. 499).

Note 7 at Acts 1:8: Jesus specified an orderly progression in the way we would be His witnesses. First we start in Jerusalem (i.e. where we are). Then we go to those nearby (Judaea). Finally, we take the gospel to every religious and racial group (Samaria) throughout the whole world.

There are some very practical reasons for becoming witnesses in this way. Jesus testified that a prophet is honored everywhere except in his home town among his family and friends (Mk. 6:4). Typically, at home is the hardest place to witness. Starting with those who know us best will cause us to humble ourselves and give God all the glory.

Also, if rejection comes, this tempers us and our witness so that we will be more effective and more resilient when we go to the utter most parts of the earth. A person who has a desire for the millions overseas to be converted and yet is unconcerned over the condition of his own family and friends has a problem and will not be the kind of witness that Jesus needs.

Those who are waiting for a world-wide ministry and are not actively pursuing the opportunities at hand will never be used. We need to be faithful in little before God will give us the "much" (Mt. 25:21).