Journey Through ActsSample

This lesson is a review of Acts.

Intro

Nicoles introduces this lesson on the apostolic church and its implications for us today.

Apostolic Church: In the Text

The Apostolic Church went through various phases even in the first generation after Christ. Changes took place in structure, leadership, and in the center of gravity. Yet, certain kinds of ministry that were characteristic of Christ continued much the same.

The Church, Jesus’ Family, the Twelve

The Authority of “Those Sent”

Acts 1 & Luke 24

Luke (the author of Acts) deliberately repeats themes and scenes from the last chapter of Luke in the first chapter of Acts. See some examples below as we explore the likely reason.

Acts 1: Jesus teaches the disciples through the Spirit. (1:2)

Luke 24: Jesus teaches the disciples after the Resurrection. (24:25-27, 32, 44-48)

Acts 1: Jesus offers many proofs of his risen state. (1:3)

Luke 24: Jesus demonstrates his risen state. (24:13-32, 34, 36-40)

Acts 1: Jesus orders them not to leave Jerusalem. (1:4)

Luke 24: Jesus orders them to stay in Jerusalem. (24:49)

Acts 1: JJesus instructs them to wait for the Father’s promise. (1:4)

Luke 24: They must stay in the city until they receive the Father’s promise. (24:49)

Acts 1: Jesus promises the Spirit and that they will be witnesses. (1:8)

Luke 24: They are witnesses and will receive promised power. (24:48-49)

Acts 1: They will receive power. (1:8)

Luke 24: They will be clothed with power (24:49)

Acts 1: Jesus ascends. (1:9-11)

Luke 24: Jesus ascends. (24:51)

Acts 1: The disciples leave Mount Olivet for Jerusalem. (1:12)

Luke 24: The disciples leave Bethany (near Mount Olivet) and return to Jerusalem. (24:50, 52)

Acts 1: They pray in the upper room. (1:13-14)

Luke 24: They worship in the temple. (24:53)

Content quoted from: Craig S. Keener, Acts: An Exegetical Commentary, Volume 1: 1:1–2:47, 2012, p. 561.