Note: for the best experience please pick-up this book to follow along.
Welcome to Day 1 of 14 of our journey through “Leading Like the Early Church: Leadership Lessons from Acts” by Dustin Royer. Today we begin to explore the foundational moments of the early church, focusing on the ascension of Jesus and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. We will discuss how the Holy Spirit empowered the apostles to fulfill the Great Commission and what this means for us today as leaders.
Day 1: The Early Church’s Foundation (Acts 1-2)
The Book of Acts opens with a moment that transformed history—the ascension of Jesus and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. In this pivotal scene, the early disciples are given a task that must have felt overwhelming: to be witnesses for Christ “to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8). At the same time, they are assured that they won’t do it alone. Jesus promises them the gift of the Holy Spirit, an essential partner in their mission to spread the Gospel.
The coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost was a defining event for the early church. It wasn’t merely a spiritual experience for the apostles; it marked the birth of a movement that would change the world. These once timid and uncertain disciples were transformed into bold and fearless witnesses for Christ, preaching the Gospel with power and performing signs and wonders in His name.
What’s striking about this moment is that the early church’s growth didn’t depend on human ability but on the work of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit’s arrival empowered ordinary men and women to do extraordinary things. They spoke in tongues, healed the sick, and preached the message of salvation with unprecedented boldness, and it was all done through God’s power.
As leaders today, we can learn much from this foundational event. Leadership in God’s kingdom isn’t about relying on our talents or abilities but about leaning into the power of the Holy Spirit. The same Spirit who empowered the early disciples empowers us today. The task of spreading the Gospel, of leading others, and of building God’s kingdom may feel daunting, but we are not left to do it alone.
Reflect on how the Holy Spirit might be calling you to step out in faith. Where is God asking you to trust His power rather than your own strength? Just as the early church thrived because of their dependence on the Spirit, we too can experience the same boldness and effectiveness when we allow God to lead us.
Reflection Questions:
- What areas of your life or leadership do you need to surrender to the Holy Spirit’s power?
- How can you foster a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit in your daily walk and ministry?
- In what ways can you lead others by relying on God’s strength rather than your own?
As we start this 14-day journey of leadership lessons from the Book of Acts, may we remember the foundation of the early church—reliance on the Holy Spirit. Just as God empowered the apostles, He desires to empower you to make an impact in your world today. Will you let Him lead?