Acts

Introduction

Acts is Luke’s report of the beginning and the explosive growth of Christianity. Its dominant theme is the Holy Spirit, whose coming after Christ returned to heaven launched the church as the living body of Christ.

Acts focuses on the ministry of two men. The Apostle Peter dominates the first 12 chapters, as the church is firmly established in Palestine and welcomes the first Gentile converts. The Apostle Paul is featured in the rest, as he launches an aggressive missionary campaign that within decades reached every part of the Roman Empire, and beyond.

Acts fascinates us today, with its vivid images of first-century life, its clear depiction of early Gospel preaching, and its testimony to the work of the Holy Spirit. A study of this book reminds us that the Spirit is still the source of spiritual power for Christ’s church today.

Outline of Contents

1. Preparation— Acts 1
2. Power— Acts 2
3. Mission to the Jews— Acts 3-12
4. Mission to the Gentiles— Acts 13-20
5. Paul’s Imprisonment— Acts 21-28

Reading Guide (18 Days)

If hurried, you may read only the “core passage” in your Bible and the Devotional in each chapter of this Commentary.