Deuteronomy 2:1--3:29
Acts 1:1-26
Psalm 48:9-14
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Focus Verses: Acts 1:1-5
1 In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach 2 until the day he was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen. 3 After his suffering, he showed himself to these men and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. 4 On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: "Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. 5 For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit."
Insight:
In just a few words of introduction, Luke says some very big things as he begins his account of the early church. Acts begins where The Gospel of Luke left off. Presumably, it was written with the same care and attention to detail as his first book (see Luke 1:1-4). Luke then tells us that Jesus' instruction to the apostles was inspired by God. Next, he explains that the apostles were chosen by Jesus. He then goes on to say that Jesus spent significant time with these apostles after his resurrection—40 days of proofs and teaching. Finally, Luke tells us that Jesus instructed the apostles to remain in Jerusalem. Their ministry would begin there when they received the gift of the Holy Spirit from God.
Response and Action:
Luke's account of these events is carefully assembled and is written with eyewitness perspective. The writings and practices of the early church are received from the apostles, authorized by Jesus, and inspired by the Holy Spirit. The apostles and, by extension, the New Testament have authority because of their relationship to the Risen Christ.
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son. He has spoken through the prophets. I accept the authority of Jesus the Christ, the teaching of his apostles, and the scriptures. I seek you, Lord, with all my heart. Don't let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. Amen.
Spiritual Formation Verses: 2 Timothy 3:16-17
16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
Resources:
Acts for Everyone, Part 1
Acts for Everyone, Part 2
by N. T. Wright
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