Have you ever wondered what Jesus said to His eleven disciples when, after His resurrection, “He opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures” (Luke 24:45)?
These men had been with Jesus for more than three years, hearing His teaching, talking with Him privately about the Word, listening to His debates with the religious leaders. But this day was different. Now their minds were opened, and, more than ever before, the Word was unfolded before them.
What else did they need? The answer can be given in one word: power!
Jesus said to them, “You are witnesses of these things. I am going to send you what My Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high” (Luke 24:48-49; see also Acts 1:4-5, 8).
Words alone – even words of Scripture explained by Jesus Himself – were not enough. The power of the Spirit was essential too.
Knowing both God’s Word and God’s power are essential for spiritual soundness and fruitful ministry. Knowing one without the other leads to errors and extremes.
Knowing neither is fatal...
