The Book of Acts describes what Jesus continues to do from heaven through His spiritual body, the Church.
Session 1 - Key points include:
- Chapter 1 focuses on the importance of prayer and fellowship.
- Chapter 2 highlights the arrival of the Holy Spirit, fulfilling the promise and laying the foundation for the Church.
- Chapters 3 and 4 recount the opposition faced by the disciples and their remarkable boldness in the face of it.
Key points include:
- Chapter 5 emphasizes that pursuing attention in unhealthy ways fractures unity, disrupts harmony, and distances us from one another, highlighting the need for genuine connections. We also learn about Peter and John facing the Sanhedrin, being imprisoned, and being released by an angel. Despite opposition, they seek boldness to continue preaching.
- Chapter 6 describes the appointment of elders to care for widows and orphans as the number of believers grows, including Stephen and Philip among the seven chosen.
- Chapters 7 and 8 focus on Stephen's defense of following Jesus. He points to Israel's history and the Messiah, which leads to him being accused of blasphemy and ultimately martyred, causing the Church to scatter.
- Chapter 8 also covers Philip’s ministry in Samaria and his travels from Ashdod to Caesarea.
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Jesus died even for the terrorists … they too, need to repent and accept salvation through Him (Chapter 9). Thus, we are called to share the Gospel with them.
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‘Being good’ is not enough – Salvation is only through Jesus (Chapter 10)
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The Gospel is not just for the Jews, it is for all – (Chapters 10-11)
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Apostles’ example: Whether I live or die – it is all for Him (12)
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God hears prayer … according to what He sees best for us.
Acts 13-16 describe Paul and his companions' first and second missionary journeys, including their experiences, challenges, and the lessons learned. The first journey involved traveling from Antioch to Cyprus and across Asia Minor, facing opposition, which resulted in John Mark abandoning the mission. On their second journey, Paul and Barnabas disagree about John Mark. Paul traveled with Silas and Timothy through Asia Minor and Europe, facing events like imprisonment and miraculous release in Philippi. The journeys emphasize obedience to the Great Commission, second chances, using circumstances to bring others to Christ, and the power of prayer and praise during trials.
Acts 17-20 recounts Paul's missionary journeys, including his preaching in Thessalonica and Berea, his explanation of the "Unknown God" in Athens, and his ministry in Corinth, where he meets Aquila and Priscilla. Paul faces opposition but receives divine encouragement. He returns to Ephesus, sparking a revival and a riot led by silversmiths. In Macedonia and Greece, he raises Eutychus from the dead and bids an emotional farewell to the Ephesian elders, warning them of future challenges.
Acts 21 – 24
• Paul's Journey to Jerusalem: Despite warnings, Paul travels to Jerusalem, where he is accused of bringing Gentiles into the temple and is subsequently arrested by Roman soldiers.
• Defense Before the Sanhedrin: Paul defends himself before the Sanhedrin, causing a dispute over resurrection beliefs, and is assured by the Lord that he will testify in Rome.
• Trial Before Felix: Paul is accused of inciting riots and desecrating the temple. Governor Felix postpones the trial, leading to Paul's two-year imprisonment without resolution.
Main Lesson: When we follow God’s calling, we may face opposition, but He is in control and will use every circumstance—even trials and imprisonment—for His greater purpose.
In Acts 25-28, Paul stands trial before Roman governor Festus and King Agrippa II, where he defends himself and shares his conversion story from a Pharisee to a Christian missionary. Despite Agrippa's interest, Paul remains imprisoned due to his appeal to Caesar. He then embarks on a perilous voyage to Rome, facing a severe storm and shipwreck, but all aboard survive. On the island of Malta, Paul performs healings, and upon reaching Rome, he lives under house arrest, continuing to preach about Jesus Christ to visitors.