---

I. THE FITNESS OF THE CHRISTIAN.

1. Its essential feature. "Power." his comprehends all the "fruits of the Spirit."

2. It is properly and distinctly a gift imparted from without and above. "Endued with power from on high."

3. Its purpose. Not an ornament or accomplishment merely. It qualified men for various offices in the Church (Ephesians 4:7, 11).

II. TARRYING FOR FITNESS. Great benefits require time for their realization: and spiritual exercise prepares for spiritual endowment.

1. By their enforced tarrying the disciples were taught that no man must thrust himself into the ministry of Christ.

2. The delay was an important element of their preparation.

3. The place for power is the place of Divine appointment. Why "Jerusalem"? It was full of associations of His ignominy and death. It contained the worst enemies of His cause. But "Christ is God's forgiveness."

(A. F. Muir, M. A.)

---

---

KJV: And as they thus spake, Jesus himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you.

WEB: As they said these things, Jesus himself stood among them, and said to them, "Peace be to you."