“The work of the Holy Spirit”
But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you. —Acts 1:8
Read Acts 1:4-14
There was a mixed multitude in the upper room, but they were unified in their love for the Lord. Mary was present at this gathering; presumable Joseph had already died, and we know Jesus had already ascended into heaven.
Mary had experienced many trials, not only from those around her in Bethlehem, Nazareth, and at Golgotha, but also from family members; for many years Jesus’ brothers did not believe in Him. Yet the Lord richly blessed Mary. We read that the Lord’s brothers were also present in the upper room, Jesus was preparing a place in heaven for her, and the blessing Jesus gave to His followers before His ascension was also for her, “I am with you always, even unto the end of the world” (Matt: 28:20). Jesus also promised that the Holy Spirit would guide His church. But, how did those gathered together regard these promises? We read: “These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication” (v.14). The Lord Jesus had given them a promise. And now, by faith, they plead with the Lord that He would fulfill that promise.
Do the contents of verse 14 have any meaning for us?