Witnesses of the Resurrection

These are the last recorded words of Jesus as he commissions his church and sends them to carry on his work. This great charge to the church immediately follows his resurrection.  In our passage, he proves the reality of his resurrection, once dead but now alive. He reminds them of the glorious message of repentance and the forgiveness of sins and gives them power to proclaim this to the nations. The resurrection of Jesus is foundational to the church's joy and purpose.