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“But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth.” (Acts 1:8)
The Book of Acts is full of instructive material on how a church should function. A church is healthy when it can clarify its own roots, meaning and purpose for existence from the New Testament church. The healthy church has a mission statement, seriously implements this vision and overcomes the obstacles that arise and good work.
Along with many practical lessons, the Book of Acts brings special insight from theological teachings on topics as the Holy Spirit (Pneumatology), the Church (Ecclesiology), Salvation (Soteriology) and not the least Missions (Missionology). Many New Testament books find their background material right in this book. The Book of Acts much like a technician can be used to to detect, expose and correct church problems.
As we step into the experiences of the saints of old, may we also regain the fervor and zeal of preaching the gospel and making disciples. May our prayers come alive and our hearts become fixed on the mission of Christ as we join the church in its making.
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The Promise, Power and Procedure
by Walter Dunnett
Introduction 1:1-11
1. The Gospel in Jerusalem (1:12-8:3)
2. The Gospel throughout Palestine (8:4-11:18)
a. In Samaria
b. In Judea
3. The Gospel to the Gentile World (11:19-21:14) Antioch, Syria westward
4. The Gospel to Rome (21:15-28:31)
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The Establishment and Growth
of the Kingdom of God
by Paul Bucknell
Introduction: Commission Given (1:1-11)
A. The Gospel in Jerusalem: Origins (1-7)
B. The Gospel in Samaria and Judea: Transition (8-10)
C. The Gospel in the Uttermost Parts: Expansion (11-28
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The Books of  Acts is often called the 'Book of the Holy Spirit' or the ' Book of the Apostles.' Both reasons are obvious. Luke described to Theophilus in his first letter about Jesus' life up to the resurrection. Acts continues from there on starting with Christ's resurrection.
Jesus' Spirit is alive upon His disciples. The great things the apostles are recorded doing in Acts were only possible by the empowering of the Holy Spirit. Their response to Jesus at His crucifixion is clear evidence to the natural weakness of th apostles.
Luke traces the extension of God's kingdom from Jerusalem to the ends of the world. It is up to us to complete the Great Commission.
"But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotiest part of the earth" (Acts 1:8).
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Acts: Other BFF Articles
The Living Commentary
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Acts Introduction and Outlines
Acts Maps: Paul's 1-2 Journeys
Acts Maps: Paul's 3 & Rome Journeys
(Blank versions also available!)
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