Evangelism was a key motif in Luke"s Gospel, and it, too, continues in Acts. The phrase "these things" evidently refers to the messianic prophecies that Jesus fulfilled. The disciples were witnesses to the fact that Messiah had come as predicted. The Scriptures predicting that the evangelization of the nations could only attain fulfillment if the disciples bore witness. We see again the blending of divine sovereignty and human responsibility in Jesus" explanation. [source][source][source]
When God created Prayer of Manasseh , He gave him a cultural mandate ( Genesis 1:28). Essentially this was to rule over the earth. This involves the advancement of civilization. This is the responsibility of every human being. When Jesus arose from the dead, He gave His disciples another mandate. Essentially this was to evangelize the world. This involves the advancement of Christianity. This is the responsibility of every Christian. [source][source][source]
Context Summary
Luke 24:44-53 - "witnesses Of These Things"
The risen Savior is the key to Scripture. The pages of Holy Writ need the illumination that falls from His face. Whenever you open the Old Testament, described here under its customary Hebrew threefold division, be sure to ask Him to open your understanding also!
Repentance is turning from sin. It is the act of the will. In remitting sin Christ not only forgives, but stands between the sinner and the consequences.
The "beginning" must be Jerusalem, because the Jew is first in the divine order, Romans 1:16. But the end is the uttermost part of the earth. We are not called to be defenders, but witnesses of the truth. We speak what we know and testify what we have seen. Our fellow-witness is the Holy Spirit, Acts 5:32.
Those outspread hands have never been withdrawn. They are still extended over us in benediction, and from heaven itself rain down perennial Messing. Let us rejoice in Him with great joy; may each lowly home be a temple full of praise!
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Chapter Summary: Luke 24
1Jesus' resurrection is declared by two angels to the women who come to the tomb 9They report it to others 13Jesus himself appears to the two disciples that went to Emmaus; 36afterwards he appears to the apostles, and reproves their unbelief; 47gives them a charge; 49promises the Holy Spirit; 50and so ascends into heaven