At the time of Jesus’ resurrection, the Roman Empire was at the height of its power. Its borders stretched farther than ever before. Its political structure was elaborate and efficient. Tax revenues were pouring in. Rome stood as the most advanced civilization the world had ever seen.

Now picture this: From his palace in Rome, Emperor Tiberius Caesar—ruler of the world’s greatest empire—looks across the vast empire toward a remote mountain in Galilee. There, eleven ordinary men are gathered around their teacher, Jesus. And Jesus says to them, “All authority in Heaven and on earth has been given to me.”

If Caesar could have heard those words, he might have laughed at the absurdity. What kind of power could this small band of Galileans possibly hold? But fast forward just 350 years, and Caesar’s successor would be declaring Christianity the official religion of the empire. A few fishermen and tax collectors—empowered by the Spirit—had helped turn the world upside down.

While later political entanglements would harm the church more than help it, the movement itself—the raw power behind it—was unmistakable. It wasn’t military. It wasn’t money. It wasn’t strategy. It was Holy Spirit power. And here’s the good news: we have the same power.

The same Spirit who filled Peter and Paul, who emboldened Stephen and Silas, who guided Lydia and Barnabas—that same Spirit lives in us. So don’t be fooled by how small things may look. Don’t underestimate what God can do with a church full of everyday people who are fully surrendered to His power.

Reflection Question:

Are you living in your own strength or relying on the power of the Holy Spirit? What’s one area of your life where you need to surrender control and trust His authority?

Prayer Focus:

Pray that the leaders of Gateway will be filled with the Holy Spirit and empowered to impact the world for Christ. For yourself, invite the Holy Spirit’s presence with this simple prayer or song:

“Holy Spirit, You are welcome here.
Come flood this place and fill the atmosphere. Your glory, God, is what our hearts long for; to be overcome by Your presence, Lord."