Acts
Overview
Theme: The Holy Spirit Key Scripture: 1:8 Time of Writing: Around 63 A.D.
Chapters 1-12: The Acts of Peter (apostle to the Jews) Chapters 13-28: The Acts of Paul (apostle to the Gentiles)
Purpose:
- To show Gentile audience that Christianity was not a law-breaking Jewish sect but rather an inclusive message of grace perpetrated by law-abiding, reasonable men who were full of the supernatural power of God.
Messages:
- The Church, as the Body of Christ, cannot function apart from the ministry of the Holy Spirit. (key to Church is the gospel; key to the gospel is the Holy Spirit)
- Only by the power of the Holy Spirit can the Great Commission be fulfilled.
Shortly before his ascent to heaven, Jesus tells his disciples to wait in Jerusalem. They cast lots and replace Judas with Matthias.