the book of acts
Jesus’ last recorded words have come to be known as the Great Commission:
“…You shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth” (Acts 1:8)
The Book of Acts, written by Luke, is the story of the men and women who took that commission seriously and began to spread the news of a risen Savior to the most remote corners of the known world. Each section of the book (1-7; 8-12; 13-28) focuses on a particular audience, a key personality, and a significant phase in the expansion of the gospel message.
Helpful links:
part two: “in Judea and Samaria..."
Application Questions
Acts Chapters 8-12
Pray: Thank God for salvation in Him. Praise Him for how He has transformed your heart and changed your life.
Consider the story of Saul, Ananias, and Stephen. Ask yourself: How would I respond to God’s calling? Would I be obedient? How would obedience change my life? Where have I been obedient in the past? Spend some time praying for a heart of surrender and obedience.
Discuss: How do we be an Ananias to the “Pauls” in our lives? (Acts 9:10-19)
Acts Chapters 13-29
Pray: Reflect on the person of Jesus. Consider how revolutionary His actions were. As you reflect and pray, thank Him for how He showed His kindness and mercy toward you when you least deserved it. Spend some time praying with others from your church, for your church. Ask God to show you ways to love and serve one another. Pray for those who do not know God or have rejected them.
Ask yourself: How am I involved in the lives of non-Christians around me? Pray and ask God to equip you to effectively communicate the gospel with these people in a way they can understand.
Discuss: Survey the book of Acts. Ask others to share what stood out to them most? What challenged them? What comforted them?
Write down the names of those you know who are open to the gospel and seeking to learn more. List ways you can help them. Then write down names of people you know who openly oppose the gospel. List ways to pray for them. How can you, led by the Holy Spirit, speak the truth to them in a way they will understand? Commit to praying for these people daily.
Acts Chapters 1-7:
Pray: Thank God for His Spirit that He has given to us. As you pray, practice a spirit of praise. Ask Him to reveal more of Himself to you, that you would be strengthened, motivated, and encouraged by His presence.
Peter and John brought a “blessing” of the Good News to those who heard their message. Ask yourself: How can I be an instrument of God’s blessing today? Spend some time praying for power to be a bold witness to the person and work of Jesus.
Discuss: What does it mean to be “one in heart and soul?” (Acts 4:32) What would your family, friends, church, work, and city look like if they were of “one heart and soul?” Discuss and pray for ways to strengthen your community, asking the Holy Spirit to compel them all to be “one in heart and soul”.