This is the second of the historical accounts of the first century written by Luke. The Acts commences where the gospel record concludes, at the time of the ascension of Jesus. Whilst the book is historical, it is a great testimony to the Christians of the first century who withstood tremendous difficulties in their endeavor to hold fast to their faith and to preach the gospel.

Highlights

  • Jesus’ ascension (Act 1:11): “This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.”
  • The Day of Pentecost. Peter’s preaching with the assistance of the Holy Spirit and the listeners’ response is very illuminating. “Brethren what shall we do? Repent said Peter, “Repent and be baptized every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins” (Act 2:37,38).
  • Stephen’s trial for his belief and faith. His stoning and his forgiveness. “Lord, do not hold this sin against them” (Act 7:60).
  • The conversion of Saul and his subsequent preaching of Jesus: “He is the Son of God” (Act 9:20).
  • Peter and Cornelius — the Gentile. God has no favorites: “…in every nation anyone who fears Him and does what is right is acceptable to Him” (Act 10:35).
  • Paul turns to the Gentiles. “I have set you to be a light for the Gentiles that you may bring salvation to the uttermost parts of the earth” (Act 13:47).
  • The difficulties of the early Christians in accepting the concept if Gentile salvation (Act 11:1-18), and partial fulfillment of the Law of Moses (Act 15:1-35).
  • Paul’s journeys — his stonings, his preaching in all parts of Asia minor; his defense before Roman authorities; his steadfast faith in the one whom he for some years persecuted.
  • Paul’s house arrest in Rome and his continued enthusiasm for the preaching of the gospel (Act 28:30-31).

The outstanding testimony of Peter, Stephen, Paul, Silas, Barnabas and others (including Luke) is encouragement for Christ’s followers to stand up for their belief in him.

Outline

(Jerusalem is the center of operations in Acts 1-12; Antioch the new center in Acts 13-28.)

1. Act 1:1-14: Jesus’ ascension 2. Acts 1:15-26: A new apostle 3. Act 2:1-47: The Day of Pentecost 4. Act 3:1–5:42: The preaching of Peter and John 5. Act 6:1–8:3: Stephen’s defense 6. Act 8:4-40: The preaching of Philip 7. Act 9:1-31: Saul’s conversion 8. Act 9:32–11:21: Peter and Cornelius — a Gentile convert 9. Act 11:22–12:25: Jerusalem and Antioch 10. Act 13:1–21:16: Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles

(a) Act 13:1–15:39: First missionary journey (b) Act 15:40–18:6: Second missionary journey (c) Act 18:7–21:16: Third missionary journey

11. Act 21:17–26:32: The trial of Paul’s faith 12. Act 27:1–28:31: Paul’s journey to Rome