Let's assume that we each share God's heart for the lost, and believe that Jesus is the way to God, the truth of God, and the God of life. What are we to do in response? How does he intend us to share his love with the nations of the world?

First, we choose to be his "disciples," people of reproducing character. We cannot give what we do not have. We cannot lead others further than we are willing to go. The disciples at Antioch were called "Christians," "little-Christs" or "Christ-imitators" (Acts 11:26). Would those who know you describe your character this way?

Second, we serve in the power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus promised us: "you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you" (Acts 1:8a). We cannot convict a single sin, or save a single soul, or heal a single marriage or home. We are to surrender our lives and work to the leadership and power of the Spirit (Ephesians 5:18), asking God to do his work through ours.

Third, we adopt his purpose for our lives: "you will be my witnesses." We accept his mandate to share his love with the world. He sent us (John 20:21) to feed his sheep (John 21:15-19), as his mandate to the whole church (Matthew 28:16-20) to reach all nations (Luke 24:47). Our success is judged by the degree to which we "make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19). IBM makes computers; General Motors makes cars; churches make disciples. We determine to live by his purpose for our days.

Fourth, we affirm the people who are to fulfill God's purpose by God's power: "you will be my witnesses." The Greek is plural--all of you. There is no clergy/laity distinction in Scripture. God intends church leaders to equip his people for works of service (Ephesians 4:11-12). We are each given spiritual gifts and opportunities to be used in extending the Kingdom of God around the world.

Last, we begin at the place God intends for our ministry: "in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." Your Jerusalem is the place where you can serve Jesus today, with those who need his love. And it extends to the nations of the earth. I believe every Christian should have an Acts 1:8 strategy for every year: how will you share Christ in your community, area, nation, and world? How will you pray, give, and go to the nations?