Rebranding the ChurchSample

THE TIME IS NOW

Acts 1 marks the ending of Jesus’s earthly ministry. He is about to ascend to heaven. Prior to this ascension, He told His disciples that the main thing they would need to focus on while He was gone was being His witnesses, “to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:7, CSB).

But before Jesus gave the disciples their assignment and purpose, He as­sured them of their empowerment. Before He sent out His am­bassadors, like any good brand trainer, He gave them an orientation. This orientation is the preamble to their representing Him without His personal, human, physical presence with them. He promised to be with them in another way: through a co-equal and co-eternal person of the Trinity called the Holy Spirit: “John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit in a few days” (Acts 1:5, CSB).

The Spirit works in partnership with you to represent Jesus. You may be thinking, I’m just an average church member. What can I do? But you are far from average in God’s eyes. You are a chosen ambassador, uniquely positioned in your workplace, neighborhood, and social circles to represent Jesus. Consider this: How can you live out the gospel in your daily life? Where could you volunteer at your church or in your community? Might you invite a neighbor over for a meal and genuine conver­sation? Perhaps you could use your professional skills to serve your church or community.

Remember, the early church grew not just through the apostles’ preaching but also through ordi­nary believers living extraordinary, Spirit-filled lives. You have the same Holy Spirit empowering you. So step out of your com­fort zone. Be intentional about representing Christ in your sphere of influence. Whether it’s through acts of kindness, speaking truth in love, or simply being present for those in need, you have the power to change perceptions and point people to Jesus. The time to rebrand the church is now, and it starts with us.

Lord, thank You that you have not left us alone but have given us Your Holy Spirit to empower and guide us. Forgive me for the times I have shrunk back in fear or failed to live in a way that reflects Your love. May others see Jesus in me and may Your church shine brightly as a faithful witness to the world. Amen.

We hope you are encouraged by this reading plan. To learn more about REBRANDING THE CHURCH by Eric Mason click here .