Convincing Proofs

In his second writing to a man named Theophilus, Luke ". . . wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach until the day he was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen."  Acts 1:1-2 (NIV)

He referred to the gospel which bears his name.  In the book bearing his name, Luke provides a thorough account of the actions and words of Jesus; the book ends with the telling of Jesus' ascension into heaven.  In a way, Luke hits reverse when he opens his next writing to Theophilus.  In the beginning of Acts, Luke backs up and provides more detail regarding the time right before Jesus' ascension. 

Acts 1:3 (NIV)
After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God.

April is the month of this year in which we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus.  We worship the risen and living Lord Jesus.  I believe the Bible and since the Bible says that Jesus is alive, I believe He is indeed full of life.  To those first believers who had no access to the New Testament (it wasn't written yet), Jesus gave an amazing gift.  In addition to presenting Himself to them, He "gave many convincing proofs that He was alive."  

Convincing proofs.

He spoke.  He ate.  He appeared in rooms with locked doors.  He offered the opportunity to touch His nail- and spear-caused scars.  He convinced many.

Jesus remains in the convincing business.  In what ways has Jesus convinced you that He is alive?  I'll share a few proofs that have convinced me.

• God has answered prayers that I prayed in the name of Jesus.
• Jesus promised to send the Spirit and I have experienced the work of the Spirit in my life.
• People have loved me in ways that Jesus' love has fueled.

The proofs that have convinced me do not include touching scars, eating meals with Jesus, or seeing the Lord inside a still-locked room.  Rather, Jesus has proved Himself to me through His continual love and faithfulness to keeping His promises.  He beseeches the Father on my behalf.  He sent the Spirit.  He loves me through the love of others.  His love is such a gift.  I am thoroughly convinced.

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Romans 8:38-39 (NIV)
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

#ordinarylives