Advertisement
Acts 1 Bible Study: A Detailed Analysis of the Foundation of the Early Church
Author: Dr. Elizabeth Carter, PhD in New Testament Studies, Professor of Biblical Studies at Regent University. Dr. Carter has published extensively on the Book of Acts, specializing in the historical and cultural context of the early church. Her expertise in Acts 1 specifically stems from years of teaching and research focusing on the transition from Jesus' ministry to the burgeoning Christian movement.
Keywords: Acts 1 Bible study, Acts 1, Early Church, Pentecost, Holy Spirit, Ascension, Discipleship, Gospel, Christian origins, Biblical Studies, New Testament.
Introduction: Unpacking Acts 1 Bible Study
Acts 1 provides the crucial foundational narrative for understanding the entire Book of Acts and, by extension, the genesis of the early Christian church. This Acts 1 Bible study delves into the historical context, theological significance, and enduring relevance of this pivotal chapter. We will explore the events leading up to the Ascension, the promise of the Holy Spirit, the election of Matthias, and the implications for believers today. A thorough Acts 1 Bible study reveals not only historical events but also timeless principles of discipleship, mission, and the power of the Holy Spirit.
The Historical Context of Acts 1: Setting the Stage for the Gospel's Expansion
Acts 1 takes place in Jerusalem shortly after the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The chapter bridges the gap between Jesus' earthly ministry and the explosive growth of Christianity documented in the rest of Acts. The disciples, still grappling with the enormity of Jesus' death and resurrection, are in a period of transition and uncertainty. Understanding the socio-political climate of first-century Palestine is vital for a comprehensive Acts 1 Bible study. Jerusalem was under Roman occupation, a fact that would significantly influence the early church's development and persecution. The Jewish sects, such as the Pharisees and Sadducees, held differing beliefs and held considerable power, impacting the early Christians' interactions with their Jewish counterparts. This historical backdrop shapes the challenges and opportunities faced by the nascent Christian community.
The Ascension and the Promise of the Holy Spirit: A Pivotal Turning Point in Acts 1 Bible Study
The Ascension of Jesus (Acts 1:9-11) marks a profound shift in the narrative. While the disciples had witnessed Jesus' miracles and teachings, the Ascension signals the commencement of a new phase, where the Holy Spirit would empower them to continue Jesus' work. This promise forms a central theme in any Acts 1 Bible study. The Spirit would not only guide and teach them but would also bestow upon them the power to be witnesses to Jesus "to the ends of the earth" (Acts 1:8). This verse encapsulates the missionary mandate that would drive the expansion of Christianity throughout the Roman Empire.
The Election of Matthias: Filling the Vacant Apostleship
The death of Judas Iscariot creates a vacancy among the twelve apostles. The process of selecting Matthias (Acts 1:15-26) highlights the importance of prayer, discernment, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit in church leadership. This section of an Acts 1 Bible study offers valuable insights into the early church's practices regarding selecting leaders and the qualities sought in those who would serve. The emphasis on prayer and the casting of lots emphasizes the role of divine providence in the leadership of the early church.
Current Relevance of Acts 1 Bible Study: Lessons for the Contemporary Church
An Acts 1 Bible study is not merely an academic exercise; it holds profound relevance for believers today. The themes of expectant waiting, the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, and the mission to share the Gospel resonate deeply with the modern church. The early Christians' unwavering faith and dedication in the face of adversity serves as an inspiration to overcome challenges and remain steadfast in their belief. Their communal life and shared resources provide a model for building strong, supportive Christian communities. The Acts 1 Bible study reveals that the church is not merely a building or an organization, but a living, breathing community empowered by the Holy Spirit to fulfil its mission.
Conclusion: A Foundation for Faith and Mission
A thorough Acts 1 Bible study reveals the foundational elements of the Christian faith: the promise of the Holy Spirit, the commission to spread the Gospel, and the importance of prayerful discernment in church leadership. The events in Acts 1 are not merely historical occurrences; they are living principles that continue to shape and guide the church today. Understanding this chapter offers a crucial lens through which to interpret the rest of the Book of Acts and to navigate the challenges and opportunities of Christian life in the 21st century.
Publisher: Crossway Publishers. Crossway is a well-respected publisher known for its high-quality biblical scholarship and resources, producing numerous commentaries and Bible studies that are widely used in academic and church settings. Their authority stems from their commitment to rigorous scholarship and their focus on providing resources that are both academically sound and practically applicable.
Editor: Dr. Michael Brown, PhD in Near Eastern Languages and Literatures, a renowned biblical scholar and author known for his expertise in Jewish studies and his insightful interpretations of Scripture. His editorial oversight ensures the article's accuracy and theological soundness.
FAQs
1. What is the significance of the Ascension in Acts 1? The Ascension marks the transition from Jesus' earthly ministry to the church's mission empowered by the Holy Spirit. It signifies Jesus' exaltation and his continued presence through the Holy Spirit.
2. How does Acts 1 relate to the rest of the Book of Acts? Acts 1 sets the stage for the events in the rest of the book, outlining the church's mission and the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit.
3. What is the importance of the Holy Spirit in Acts 1? The Holy Spirit is promised as the empowering force that would enable the disciples to be effective witnesses to Jesus throughout the world.
4. Why was Matthias chosen to replace Judas? Matthias was chosen through prayer and the casting of lots, signifying the importance of prayer and divine guidance in church leadership.
5. What are the key themes of Acts 1? Key themes include the promise of the Holy Spirit, the ascension of Jesus, the beginning of the church's mission, and the election of Matthias.
6. How does Acts 1 apply to my life today? Acts 1 calls believers to be active participants in the mission of the church, to live by the power of the Holy Spirit, and to seek God's guidance in all aspects of life.
7. What is the historical setting of Acts 1? Acts 1 is set in Jerusalem, shortly after the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus, within the context of Roman rule and various Jewish sects.
8. What are the different interpretations of the "casting of lots" in Acts 1? Various interpretations exist, but generally, it points towards God's providential guidance in the selection of Matthias.
9. How can I conduct a personal Acts 1 Bible study? Use a study Bible, read commentaries, pray for understanding, and reflect on the relevance of the text to your own life and ministry.
Related Articles:
1. The Promise of the Holy Spirit in Acts 1: A detailed examination of the promise of the Holy Spirit and its implications for the early church and believers today.
2. The Ascension of Jesus: A Theological Reflection: Explores the theological significance of the Ascension and its impact on Christian belief and practice.
3. The Election of Matthias: A Case Study in Church Leadership: An in-depth analysis of the process of selecting Matthias and its implications for church governance.
4. Acts 1 and the Birth of the Missionary Church: Focuses on the missionary mandate given in Acts 1 and its impact on the spread of Christianity.
5. The Historical Context of Acts 1: Jerusalem Under Roman Rule: Provides a detailed overview of the historical and political setting of Acts 1.
6. Acts 1 and the Jewish Roots of Christianity: Examines the Jewish context of Acts 1 and its influence on the development of early Christianity.
7. Acts 1: A Practical Guide to Spiritual Warfare: Explores the spiritual battles faced by the early church and their relevance to contemporary Christians.
8. The Disciples' Waiting and Prayer in Acts 1: A reflection on the importance of prayer and expectant waiting in the life of the Christian.
9. Acts 1 and the Power of Community: An exploration of the importance of Christian community as demonstrated by the early church in Acts 1.
| acts 1 bible study: Holy Bible (NIV) Various Authors,, 2008-09-02 The NIV is the world's best-selling modern translation, with over 150 million copies in print since its first full publication in 1978. This highly accurate and smooth-reading version of the Bible in modern English has the largest library of printed and electronic support material of any modern translation. |
| acts 1 bible study: Acts David Guzik, 2000-12 |
| acts 1 bible study: Luke/Acts for Beginners Mike Mazzalongo, 2018-04-10 This book will review Luke's two volume historical narrative concerning Jesus' life and ministry as well the beginning and spread of Christianity in the Roman Empire as he experienced it. |
| acts 1 bible study: Acts 1-12 for You Albert Mohler, 2018-02 There is no more thrilling part of the Bible than the book of Acts, and no better guide to it than Albert Mohler. This first volume takes in the ascension of Jesus, the coming of the Spirit, the birth of the church, the start of persecution, the conversion of Saul, and the divine call to world-wide evangelism. If you want to be fueled for Christian life and mission, you will want to read this book. This Expository Guide takes you verse by verse through the text in an accessible and applied way. It is less academic than a traditional commentary and can be read cover-to-cover, used in personal devotions, used to lead small group studies, or used for sermon preparation. |
| acts 1 bible study: The Acts of the Apostles, Part One Dennis Hamm, 2021-07-12 What does it mean for a community to follow Jesus? With full benefit of the Holy Spirit, the earliest believers shaped communities of faith from Jerusalem to Rome and all points in between. The Acts of the Apostles, Part One (Acts 1:1–15:35) invites us to witness the Spirit at work as the apostles of Jesus become evangelists and pastors, as communities of believers expand to include Gentiles, and as local challenges test the staying power of the young church. Commentary, study and reflection questions, prayers, and access to online lectures are included. 5 lessons. |
| acts 1 bible study: How to Study the Bible Dwight L. Moody, 2017-07-01 I will never forget thy precepts; for with them thou hast caused me to live. (Psalm 119:93) There is no situation in life for which you cannot find some word of consolation in Scripture. If you are in affliction, if you are in adversity and trial, there is a promise for you. In joy and sorrow, in health and in sickness, in poverty and in riches, in every condition of life, God has a promise stored up in His Word for you. This classic book by Dwight L. Moody brings to light the necessity of studying the Scriptures, presents methods which help stimulate excitement for the Scriptures, and offers tools to help you comprehend the difficult passages in the Scriptures. To live a victorious Christian life, you must read and understand what God is saying to you. Moody is a master of using stories to illustrate what he is saying, and you will be both inspired and convicted to pursue truth from the pages of God’s Word. Previous title: Pleasure & Profit in Bible Study |
| acts 1 bible study: The New International Commentary on the New Testament , 1951 |
| acts 1 bible study: The Clear Word Jack Blanco, 2007-05 The Clear Word lets the power of ancient texts come through today. As the meaning of Scripture becomes more transparent, you see more of Gods grace. His love shines through even in difficult Old Testament passages. The Clear Word has renewed the devotional lives of thousands of people. Let it renew yours. Now available in the popular two-column format with the text in paragraphs. |
| acts 1 bible study: Be Dynamic (Acts 1-12) Warren W. Wiersbe, 2012-12-10 The ministry of the Holy Spirit is not a luxury; it is an absolute necessity, writes celebrated author and respected pastor Warren Wiersbe. In his first of two books covering Acts, Be Dynamic focuses on Peter's ministry, mostly in Israel and centered in Jerusalem. Through explaining Luke's record of the Gospel's advancement and church expansion, Wiersbe opens the door to understanding the work of the church today. Using hard-hitting quotes from recognized names like St. Augustine and John Bunyan, Wiersbe proves himself as a well-read author and gifted writer. The depth of his study is astounding, yet the accessibility of his text for every age group is evident as well. He proves what Luke intended-for Acts to be interpreted not as the apostles' glorious acts, but as the life-changing acts of the Holy Spirit. The same Spirit lives in believers today, the same God calls followers to expand His church, and the same basic problems still arise within the church, but the same power available then is still available now to change the nations. |
| acts 1 bible study: Acts Phyllis J. Le Peau, 2002-07-16 Do you ever feel powerless? Acts is the extraordinary record of what the early Christian disciples did. The power that you see in action in this book is the same power that can transform your life. As Phyllis J. Le Peau leads you through the pages of Acts, you will begin to understand what the Holy Spirit can do in you and in the world. |
| acts 1 bible study: Acts N.T. Wright, Dale Larsen, Sandy Larsen, 2011-08-30 With a scholar's mind and a pastor's heart, N. T. Wright guides us through the New Testament book of Acts, moving us from the world in which it was lived into the world in which we must live it again. Twenty-four sessions for group or personal study. |
| acts 1 bible study: Acts 112 Albert Mohler, 2018-02 Albert Mohler guides groups through the first half of the book of Acts, showing how the ascension of Christ, the coming of the Spirit, and the birth and growth of the church shapes our lives and mission today. Features close attention to the text, a focus on real-life application, and questions that really open up discussion. Plus a comprehensive guide for leaders in the back. |
| acts 1 bible study: Women Living Well Courtney Joseph Fallick, 2013-10-08 Women desire to live well. However, living well in this modern world is a challenge. The pace of life, along with the new front porch of social media, has changed the landscape of our lives. Women have been told for far too long that being on the go and accumulating more things will make their lives full. As a result, we grasp for the wrong things in life and come up empty. God created us to walk with him; to know him and to be loved by him. He is our living well and when we drink from the water he continually provides, it will change us. Our marriages, our parenting, and our homemaking will be transformed. Mommy-blogger Courtney Joseph is a cheerful realist. She tackles the challenge of holding onto vintage values in a modern world, starting with the keys to protecting our walk with God. No subject is off-limits as she moves on to marriage, parenting, and household management. Rooted in the Bible, her practical approach includes tons of tips that are perfect for busy moms, including: Simple Solutions for Studying God’s Word How to Handle Marriage, Parenting, and Homemaking in a Digital Age 10 Steps to Completing Your Husband Dealing With Disappointed Expectations in Motherhood Creating Routines that Bring Rest Pursuing the Discipline and Diligence of the Proverbs 31 Woman There is nothing more important than fostering your faith, building your marriage, training your children, and creating a haven for your family. Women Living Well is a clear and personal guide to making the most of these precious responsibilities. |
| acts 1 bible study: Acts Justin S. Holcomb, 2014-06-30 The book of Acts chronicles some of the most important events in Christian history: the scattering of Jesus's disciples across the known world, the coming of the Holy Spirit, the birth of the early church, and more. Plumbing the theological depths, this guide explains the biblical text with clarity and passion—helping us understand the history-shaping events that took place in the years following Christ's ascension. Over the course of 12 weeks, each study in this series explores a book of the Bible and: Asks thoughtful questions to spur discussion Shows how each passage unveils the gospel Ties the text in with the whole story of Scripture Illuminates the doctrines taught in each passage Invites you to discover practical implications Helps you better understand and apply God's Word |
| acts 1 bible study: Acts John F. MacArthur, 2015-11-03 Riots. Intolerance. Accusations. Scandal. Beatings. Plots. Arrests. Executions. Murder...And out of that, the Church was born. Pastor John MacArthur will take you through the story of the earliest Christian movement to show how—even in the midst of persecution and opposition—the early believers were able to rely on God's spirit for direction and divine authority to preach the gospel to all nations. The book of Acts is a carefully-recorded history of the explosive spread of the gospel and the rapid growth of the church after Christ's ascension. In one of the most tumultuous, violent and dramatic books in the entire Bible, Acts starts with the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, without which the young church could never have survived the unleashing of rage and prejudice towards these radical followers of The Way. Throughout Acts, God shows His infinite power regardless of the circumstances, just as He continues to do today. —ABOUT THE SERIES— The MacArthur Bible Study series is designed to help you study the Word of God with guidance from widely respected pastor and author John MacArthur. Each guide provides intriguing examinations of the whole of Scripture by examining its parts and incorporates: Extensive, but straight-forward commentary on the text. Detailed observations on overriding themes, timelines, history, and context. Word and phrase studies to help you unlock the broader meaning and apply it to your life. Probing, interactive questions with plenty of space to write down your response and thoughts. |
| acts 1 bible study: Believing Jesus Lisa Harper, 2015-08-04 Are you truly willing to risk everything? In Believing Jesus, Bible teacher and author Lisa Harper retraces the steps of the apostles in the book of Acts, while throwing in a few of her own crazy adventures along the way. The disciples didn’t have much of a road map after Jesus ascended to heaven, but God’s grace and spirit filled in the gaps as they moved forward. It required their willingness to risk everything to establish a new community that would change the future world. As a regular speaker on the Women of Faith® tour, Lisa has earned a reputation as a true theological scholar and hilarious storyteller—not necessarily in that order! Best-selling author and pastor Max Lucado calls Lisa one of the “best Bible tour guides around.” Believing Jesus will highlight both of Lisa’s strengths as she tackles every chapter of the Book of Acts with biblical wisdom and modern wit. Lisa keeps it real, telling stories on herself and pointing readers back to Jesus, the only one who can truly lead. |
| acts 1 bible study: Core Christianity Michael Horton, 2016-04-05 What beliefs are core to the Christian faith? This book is here to help you understand the reason for your hope as a Christian so that you can see it with fresh sight and invite others into the conversation. A lot of Christians take their story—the narratives that give rise to their beliefs—for granted. They pray, go to church, perhaps even read their Bible. But they might be stuck if a stranger asked them to explain what they believe and why they believe it. Author, pastor, and theologian Mike Horton unpacks the essential and basic beliefs that all Christians share in a way that is easy to understand and applicable to our lives today. And in a way that will make you excited to be a Christian! Core Christianity covers topics like: Jesus as both fully God and fully man. The doctrine of the Trinity. The goodness of God despite a broken world. The ways God speaks. The meaning of salvation. What is the Christian calling? Includes discussion questions for individual or group use. This introduction to the basic doctrines of Christianity is perfect for those who are new to the faith, as well as those who have an interest in deepening their understanding of what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ. |
| acts 1 bible study: The Acts of the Apostles P.D. James, 1999-01-01 Acts is the sequel to Luke's gospel and tells the story of Jesus's followers during the 30 years after his death. It describes how the 12 apostles, formerly Jesus's disciples, spread the message of Christianity throughout the Mediterranean against a background of persecution. With an introduction by P.D. James |
| acts 1 bible study: Revelation David Guzik, 2001-10-01 |
| acts 1 bible study: Together for the World Wagenman, Michael R., 2016-08-24 The disciples and early Christians faced doubt, opposition, and threats--just like many Christians do today. In Together with the World, Michael Wagenman shows how the book of Acts can help modern Christians respond to crisis and critique in our contemporary world. The book of Acts is about more than simply the beginning of church history. In Together for the World we find a group of disciples, empowered by the Holy Spirit, following God's call to spread the good news. |
| acts 1 bible study: Spiritual Bootcamp John MacArthur, 2021 |
| acts 1 bible study: ESV Crossway Bibles, 2008 Combining the best and most recent evangelical Christian scholarship with the highly regarded ESV text, the ESV Study Bible is the most comprehensive study Bible ever published. |
| acts 1 bible study: Discipleship Training in Luke's Gospel Ralph F. Wilson, 2020-10-09 Wouldn't it be wonderful to be trained as a disciple by Jesus himself? To be one of that band of Twelve and then Seventy who followed him around Galilee and Judea. As they walked with Jesus, he molded them as disciplesDisciple Lessons in Luke's Gospel is a conscious attempt to put you and me in the place of those first disciples. It's a JesusWalk. Over 120 lessons, you'll look at each of Jesus' healing acts, each word, each confrontation, each parable, and ask the question: What should I as a disciple be learning from this?Written over a period of three years and experienced by over 5,000 students from 123 countries, Disciple Lessons in Luke's Gospel is being used by God to mold many in Christ's image. Now slightly revised and available in audio form and via e-mail, this series can help form you as a disciple.Preachers will be glad for the careful exegesis of each passage, footnoted research, and deep digging that results in present-day applications. Teachers will use the deep, probing questions at the end of each lesson. But the one who will benefit most is you, the earnest disciple, who wants to learn genuine discipleship at the feet of the Master. Third Edition. |
| acts 1 bible study: A Commentary on Acts David Pawson, 2014-05-22 Dr. Luke's second volume is a book of 'firsts': the first outpouring of the Holy Spirit, the first converts, the first healing, the first arrest and trial, the first deacons, the first martyr, the first persecution, the first Gentile mission and many more. Nothing can stop the spread of the gospel when the church is on fire! The founding fathers were beset by troubles which, under God's direction, were all turned into triumphs. Study of their exploits will leave you with some disturbing questions. Should our church be like this? Could it be? Above all, do I want it to be? |
| acts 1 bible study: Acts Jack W. Hayford, 2012 The Spirit-Filled Life Study Guides are perfect companions to the New Spirit-Filled Life Bible or for use on their own. Their interactive approach offers an in-depth look at practical living in God's kingdom and challenges users to examine and live their daily lives in light of God's Word. |
| acts 1 bible study: Disciple's Guide to the Holy Spirit Ralph F. Wilson, 2018-07-30 Series of 11 lessons designed to help Christian disciples understand the basic Bible teaching about the Holy Spirit, to encounter Him, and to learn to walk with him. Includes discussion questions and a weekly growth assignment. |
| acts 1 bible study: On the Whole Bible Matthew Henry, 1995-07 Born the son of a clergyman on October 18, 1662, Matthew Henry was ordained into the British Presbyterian Church where he held the pastorate in Chester from 1687 to 1712. He was widowed, married again and had 10 children, three whom died in infancy. Henry died in 1714. Henry began work on his commentary as Notes On The New Testament in 1704 and the monumental work was completed shortly before his death in 1714. Remembered as a caring pastor, a passionate lover of the Word of God, and a man of great personal integrity, Matthew Henry has left his mark on the hearts of countless Christians who seek a deeper understanding of the riches that Scripture contains. This edition of Matthew Henry's Commentary on the Whole Bible uses the King James text and is abridged from the original six volumes while faithfully retaining all of the vibrant themes of that classic work. Everything here is in Matthew Henry's own words and nothing relevant to today's reader has been omitted. |
| acts 1 bible study: Why I Am Not a Calvinist Jerry L. Walls, Joseph R. Dongell, 2013-06-06 Paying particular attention to the issue of God's sovereignty, Jerry L. Walls and Joseph R. Dongell critique biblical and theological weaknesses of Calvinist thought. |
| acts 1 bible study: Upside Down Living Bible Study Greg Laurie, 2012-09-29 The mission of the early church is our mission today. |
| acts 1 bible study: Explore the Bible: Acts Chapters 1-12 Bible Study Book Lifeway Adults, 2015-12 Explore the Bible: Acts--Chapters 1-12 Bible Study Book is a six-session study that will equip you and your group members to understand significant events in the early church, like Jesus' commission and ascension, Pentecost and the birth of the church, the persecution of the early Christians, Philip and the eunuch, Paul's Damascus Road conversion, and Peter's vision.First there were 12. Then 120. Suddenly there came an explosion of spiritual fire, and 3,000 were added. Then 5,000. Like the growth of a tiny seed into a giant tree, the church--called into being by Christ, planted in the gospel, and nourished by the power of the Holy Spirit--pursues to this day its mission of being witnesses of the Lord Jesus Christ to the ends of the earth. From its earliest times, the church has stretched upward in faith and outward in evangelism despite facing bouts of heated persecution and spiritual drought. God's kingdom marches relentlessly forward. By digging deep into Acts 1-12, today's Christ followers can reconnect with their dramatic early story, renew their passion to obey the Lord, and refocus their vision as His global witnesses.Session Titles: 1. Jesus Gives the Mission 2. The Church Is Born 3. Faithfulness in Persecution 4. Obedience to the Spirit 5. Transformation Through the Gospel6. Salvation Is for EveryoneFeatures: Biblically rooted and gospel-centered content Leader material (tips for leading a group and suggestions for guiding six group sessions) Text-driven, streamlined experience with God's WordBenefits: Contains historical background that provides a greater context for spiritual growth Presents reliable, biblical truth Increases leader's confidence and preparation Offers biblical insight for the Christian life today Includes provocative questions, scriptural support and text, application, and preparationGeneral Editor: Vance Pitman is senior pastor of Hope Church in Las Vegas, Nevada. |
| acts 1 bible study: Pints with Aquinas Matt Fradd, 2016-08-10 If you could sit down with St. Thomas Aquinas over a pint of beer and ask him any one question, what would it be? Pints With Aquinas contains over 50 deep thoughts from the Angelic doctor on subjects such as God, virtue, the sacraments, happiness, alcohol, and more. If you've always wanted to read St. Thomas but have been too intimidated to try, this book is for you.So, get your geek on, pull up a bar stool and grab a cold one, here we go!He alone enlightened the Church more than all other doctors; a man can derive more profit in a year from his books than from pondering all his life the teaching of others. - Pope John XXII |
| acts 1 bible study: Apostle Paul Ralph F Wilson, 2019-08-05 The Apostle Paul is one of the most important teachers in the New Testament, authoring a large portion of the New Testament. His life and letters have guided, inspired, encouraged, and challenged the church for two millennia. But what makes Paul tick? The author contends that Paul's essential genius lies in his passion to know Jesus deeply and intimately. We can get ahold of this passion by exploring Paul's life and ministry over the course of 11 lessons. The narrative of the Book of Acts forms the basis of a chronological account of his life, with biographical elements included from Paul's letters. In addition, each lesson examines one or more of Paul's passions and key teachings, and how they can impact a believer's life, values, and commitments today. Some of these include: - Salvation by grace through faith, rather than by strict observance of the Law. - The passion to proclaim Jesus despite opposition and persecution. - Being totally surrendered to Christ, in Paul's words, Crucified with Christ. - Knowing Jesus intimately -- in a way that surpasses everything else. Initially developed as an online study, this book is ideal for personal spiritual development, use by teachers and small group leaders, and for sermon development. |
| acts 1 bible study: Acts R. C. Sproul, 2010 This St. Andrew's Expositional Commentary from theologian-preacher R. C. Sproul offers application and pastoral wisdom to the story of the gospel spreading to the nations. |
| acts 1 bible study: End Times Stephen Armstrong, 2017-04-20 The first in a new Bible study series from Verse By Verse Ministry International (vbvmi.org). This 12-week VBVMI Group Study on End Times features thought-provoking teaching of core biblical concepts in prophecy. The workbook prepares both individual students and small groups for a deeper study of eschatology by examining key ideas and highlights from the book of Revelation, Daniel and other scripture. Students will gain a foundational understanding of God's plan for Israel, the Church and the end of the age. The VBVMI Group Study series is designed to suit the needs of students new to a study of end times while still offering a challenge to experienced Bible students. Each lesson in this study includes a video available to stream for free over the internet. The videos feature the teaching of Stephen Armstrong, acclaimed for his unique and gifted approach to explaining the Bible. The 12 videos are available for viewing or download for free at: http://www.vbvmiendtimesstudy.org. A printable PDF copy of the workbook may also be downloaded for free. |
| acts 1 bible study: The Living Bible, Paraphrased Tyndale House Publishers, 1971 A compilation of the Scripture paraphrases previously published ... under the following titles: Living letters, 1962; Living prophecies, 1965; Living gospels, 1966; Living psalms and proverbs, 1967; Living lessons of life and love, 1968; Living book of Moses, 1969; Living history of Israel, 1970. |
| acts 1 bible study: Calvin's Commentaries Jean Calvin, 1996 |
| acts 1 bible study: LifeGuide Bible Studies Intervarsity Press, 1985-06-01 Our most popular line of Bible study guides provides solid biblical content and raises thought-provoking issues for individual or group benefit. Choose from studies on Old and New Testament books, character studies, topical studies--or take advantage of our helpful titles for small groups and group leaders. |
| acts 1 bible study: The Power of the Holy Ghost (Annotated) Charles Spurgeon, 2019-06-12 This book contains Charles H. Spurgeon's famous sermon, The Power of the Holy Ghost, in its original, unedited form. A brief introduction and commentary pertaining to the sermon is provided by the editor. |
| acts 1 bible study: Enduring Words David Guzik, 2020-11-07 It feels like our world is moving in new, uncertain directions and in unknown waters where you need a good anchor. In Jesus Christ, who is our Rock, we have hope as an anchor for the soul. To not be set adrift, one needs to stay connected to that anchor. I have found it is only by regular time in God's Word that it happens. We believe the promise recorded in 1 Peter 1:24-25: The grass withers, and its flower falls away, but the word of the LORD endures forever. Day by day, as we come to God's Enduring Word, He has wisdom, strength, and blessing to give us. We can weather storms and enjoy calm waters. We can grow in seasons of drought and bear a harvest for God's kingdom year-round. For 25 years I have prepared a weekly devotional. Here are 365 selected Scripture passages along with an inspirational, encouraging, and helpful thought. My prayer is that you would know and enjoy more and more of God's enduring word. In Jesus, David Guzik |
| acts 1 bible study: Faith and Liberty Bible (Gnt) American Bible Society, 2021-05-03 The Faith and Liberty Bible offers 813 articles and quotations from people in American history who have drawn on the Bible in their work and writings. Each piece is annotated and reviewed by a team of scholars of American history, law, and religion and placed near a biblical passage it quotes. As a reference (including an index of Bible citations and allusions) it will help you discover new depths to history as you uncover the significant influence of the Bible on the American experience. But the Faith and Liberty Bible also invites you into your own encounter with the Bible's message in the company of the parents, leaders, writers, educators, and reformers whose lives and work it has touched. The articles are organized by six values--faith, liberty, justice, unity, hope, and love--and ten topical tracks from Liberty and Law to Education and Virtue to Slavery and Abolition. Discover how, in the American experience ... faith guides liberty toward justice. This edition features the accessible and reliable Good News Translation(R) of the Bible |
Acts 1 NIV - Jesus Taken Up Into Heaven - In my - Bible Gateway
Acts 1:16 The Greek word for brothers and sisters (adelphoi) refers here to believers, both men and women, as part of God’s family; also in 6:3; 11:29; 12:17; 16:40; 18:18, 27; 21:7, 17; …
Acts 22 NIV - “Brothers and fathers, listen now to - Bible Gateway
“Brothers and fathers, listen now to my defense.” When they heard him speak to them in Aramaic, they became very quiet. Then Paul said: “I am a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up …
Acts 1 ESV - The Promise of the Holy Spirit - Bible Gateway
Acts 1:14 Or brothers and sisters. In New Testament usage, depending on the context, the plural Greek word adelphoi (translated “brothers”) may refer either to brothers or to brothers and …
Acts 1 KJV - The former treatise have I made, O - Bible Gateway
The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach, Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the Holy Ghost had given …
ACTS 2 NIV - The Holy Spirit Comes at Pentecost - Bible Gateway
The Holy Spirit Comes at Pentecost - When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled …
The Acts of the Apostles - Bible Gateway
The Acts of the Apostles, the second volume of Luke’s two-volume work, continues Luke’s presentation of biblical history, describing how the salvation promised to Israel in the Old …
Acts 4 NIV - Peter and John Before the Sanhedrin - Bible Gateway
Peter and John Before the Sanhedrin - The priests and the captain of the temple guard and the Sadducees came up to Peter and John while they were speaking to the people. They were …
Acts 1 AMP - Introduction - The first account I - Bible Gateway
Acts 1:1 As the gospel tells us what Jesus began to do and teach, so Acts tells what He continued to do and teach by His Holy Spirit (F. F. Bruce). Acts 1:13 Also known as James the Less or …
ACTS 22 NKJV - Paul’s Defense at Jerusalem - Bible Gateway
Paul’s Defense at Jerusalem - “Brethren and fathers, hear my defense before you now.” And when they heard that he spoke to them in the Hebrew language, they kept all the more silent. …
Acts 10 NKJV - Cornelius Sends a Delegation - Bible Gateway
Cornelius Sends a Delegation. 10 There was a certain man in () Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of what was called the Italian [] Regiment, 2 a devout man and one who () feared …
Acts 1 NIV - Jesus Taken Up Into Heaven - In my - Bible G…
Acts 1:16 The Greek word for brothers and sisters (adelphoi) refers here to believers, both men and women, as part of God’s family; also in 6:3; 11:29; …
Acts 22 NIV - “Brothers and fathers, listen now to - Bible G…
“Brothers and fathers, listen now to my defense.” When they heard him speak to them in Aramaic, they became very quiet. Then Paul said: “I am a Jew, …
Acts 1 ESV - The Promise of the Holy Spirit - Bible Gateway
Acts 1:14 Or brothers and sisters. In New Testament usage, depending on the context, the plural Greek word adelphoi (translated “brothers”) may refer …
Acts 1 KJV - The former treatise have I made, O - Bibl…
The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach, Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through …
ACTS 2 NIV - The Holy Spirit Comes at Pentecost - Bible G…
The Holy Spirit Comes at Pentecost - When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent …
