The Book of Acts
Bible Study: Faith + Salvation = Works.
ESV Text
Acts 1:8 (ESV) says: "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."
Applied Version
In modern terms, this verse is about the empowerment that comes from the Holy Spirit. It's not just about receiving strength; it's about transformation and purpose. The Holy Spirit empowers us to share our experiences and the truth of Jesus' teachings, not just locally but globally. It's about becoming a positive influence and a bearer of truth in every sphere of life.
Personal Reflection
Consider how often you feel empowered in your daily activities. Are there areas in your life where you feel less confident or hesitant to share your beliefs? What might be holding you back from fully embracing the role of a witness to the truths you hold dear?
Call to Action
Start by identifying opportunities in your daily life where you can share your faith or experiences in a meaningful way. This could be as simple as offering a kind word, helping someone in need, or sharing how your faith has helped you overcome challenges. Look for ways to extend your influence beyond your immediate surroundings—perhaps by engaging in community service or online forums.
Personal Affirmation
"I will embrace the power of the Holy Spirit to become a courageous witness of my faith. I can influence my community and beyond with the love and teachings of Jesus. I must not underestimate the impact of living my faith openly and authentically."
ESV Text
Acts 2:1-4 (ESV) says: "When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance."
Applied Version
This passage symbolizes a transformative moment of unity and empowerment. The Holy Spirit's arrival signifies a new era where believers are equipped with extraordinary gifts to bridge cultural and linguistic divides, fostering understanding and unity. It's about embracing diversity and utilizing our unique gifts to serve a common purpose.
Personal Reflection
Reflect on the diversity within your own community. How often do you engage with people who are different from you? Are there barriers that prevent effective communication and understanding? How can the Holy Spirit guide you to overcome these challenges and foster unity?
Call to Action
Actively seek to understand and appreciate the diverse perspectives and backgrounds in your community. Consider learning a new language or cultural practice. Participate in community events that bring diverse groups together. Use your gifts to serve others and build bridges of understanding and friendship.
Personal Affirmation
"I will be open to the leading of the Holy Spirit to harness my unique abilities for the greater good. I can be a bridge-builder in my community, promoting unity and understanding. I must recognize and celebrate the diverse gifts of those around me as part of God’s magnificent design."
ESV Text
Acts 3:6-7 (ESV) says: "But Peter said, 'I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!' And he took him by the right hand and lifted him up, and immediately his feet and ankles were made strong."
Applied Version
This narrative highlights the power of spiritual wealth over material wealth. Peter, lacking material riches, offers something far more significant—the healing power of faith in Jesus Christ. This teaches us that our greatest gifts often don't involve material resources but rather, the spiritual blessings and capabilities we've been granted.
Personal Reflection
Think about the resources you often rely on to offer help. Do you tend to prioritize material aid over spiritual or emotional support? How can you incorporate your faith more actively into your acts of service?
Call to Action
Look for opportunities where you can offer more than just material aid. Engage in acts of kindness that require your time, presence, and personal engagement. Offer prayer, encouragement, and faith-based support to those in need, demonstrating that the love of Christ can bring profound transformation.
Personal Affirmation
"I will use the gifts of faith and empowerment bestowed upon me to assist others. I can be a conduit of God's healing and hope, not just through material means but through spiritual strength. I must remember that my most impactful gifts are often not tangible but are found in the power of faith and prayer."
ESV Text
Acts 4:31-32 (ESV) says: "And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness. Now the full number of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one said that any of the things that belonged to him was his own, but they had everything in common."
Applied Version
This passage reflects a profound community spirit empowered by faith and the Holy Spirit. The believers were unified, sharing everything they had, illustrating the deep connection and commitment to each other fostered by shared beliefs. It's a call to foster communities where resources, support, and care are abundantly shared.
Personal Reflection
How connected do you feel to your community? Are there ways in which you could foster a deeper sense of unity and sharing? What holds you back from experiencing or contributing to such a communal spirit?
Call to Action
Consider ways to strengthen your community ties and increase your support for one another. This might involve starting or participating in a community support group, sharing resources with those in need, or organizing community events that encourage collaboration and sharing. Embrace transparency and generosity as fundamental values in your interactions.
Personal Affirmation
"I will actively contribute to the unity and strength of my community by sharing my resources and support. I can help create an environment where no one lacks because we care for each other's needs. I must cultivate a spirit of generosity, viewing what I have not as solely mine but as tools for the betterment of others."
ESV Text
Acts 5:29-32 (ESV) says: "But Peter and the apostles answered, 'We must obey God rather than men. The God of our fathers raised Jesus, whom you killed by hanging him on a tree. God exalted him at his right hand as Leader and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. And we are his witnesses to these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him.'"
Applied Version
This passage underscores the courage to stand firm in one's faith, even in the face of opposition. Peter and the apostles prioritize obedience to God over compliance with earthly authorities, emphasizing the importance of spiritual integrity. It's a reminder that our allegiance to God should guide our actions and decisions, especially when they conflict with worldly demands.
Personal Reflection
Consider times when you've faced pressure to compromise your beliefs or values. How did you respond? Are there current areas in your life where you feel a tension between "obeying God rather than men"? How can you strengthen your resolve to follow God's lead?
Call to Action
Identify ways you can demonstrate your commitment to God's teachings in your daily life, even when it may be countercultural or challenging. This might mean speaking up for what is right, making ethical choices at work, or standing by your convictions in social settings. Seek support from like-minded individuals who can encourage and strengthen your faith journey.
Personal Affirmation
"I will steadfastly obey God rather than conform to the expectations of men. I can uphold my faith and act according to God's will, even when faced with opposition. I must remain vigilant and courageous, trusting that the Holy Spirit empowers and guides me in all circumstances."
ESV Text
Acts 6:3-4 (ESV) says: "Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty. But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word."
Applied Version
This passage highlights the importance of community responsibility and delegation based on spiritual maturity and wisdom. It underscores the need for leaders who are not only respected but also deeply guided by the Holy Spirit. This ensures that practical needs are met without neglecting spiritual duties, like prayer and teaching, which are essential for a thriving community.
Personal Reflection
Consider the roles you take on in your community or workplace. Are you stretching yourself too thin, or are there areas where you could delegate tasks to trustworthy individuals? How can you ensure that your responsibilities are aligned with your spiritual gifts and calling?
Call to Action
Evaluate your current commitments and consider if there are tasks that could be better handled by others with the appropriate skills and spiritual maturity. Encourage and mentor others to take on roles that suit their strengths, fostering a supportive and efficient environment. Make sure to balance your practical responsibilities with spiritual practices like prayer and study.
Personal Affirmation
"I will seek to recognize and nurture the gifts of the Holy Spirit in others, allowing for a well-balanced approach to leadership and service. I can effectively contribute to my community by aligning my tasks with my spiritual strengths. I must prioritize my relationship with God to maintain the wisdom and guidance needed for my roles."
ESV Text
Acts 7:54-60 (ESV) says: "Now when they heard these things they were enraged, and they ground their teeth at him. But he, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. And he said, 'Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.' But they cried out with a loud voice and stopped their ears and rushed together at him. Then they cast him out of the city and stoned him. And the witnesses laid down their garments at the feet of a young man named Saul. And as they were stoning Stephen, he cried out, 'Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.' And falling to his knees he cried out with a loud voice, 'Lord, do not hold this sin against them.' And when he had said this, he fell asleep."
Applied Version
This powerful narrative of Stephen's martyrdom underscores the ultimate commitment to faith, even in the face of death. Stephen's unwavering faith and his vision of Jesus at God's right hand provided him with the strength to forgive his persecutors in his final moments, exemplifying Christ-like forgiveness and devotion.
Personal Reflection
Reflect on your own challenges or confrontations where your faith is tested. How do you respond under pressure or threat? Could you, like Stephen, find it within yourself to forgive those who may be causing you harm or opposing you? What steps can you take to cultivate such profound spiritual resilience and forgiveness?
Call to Action
Consider actively practicing forgiveness in your daily interactions, even in small disputes or misunderstandings. By doing so, you prepare yourself to handle larger conflicts with grace. Participate in or initiate reconciliation processes within your community, church, or family to foster an environment of forgiveness and peace.
Personal Affirmation
"I will strive to embody the spirit of Stephen, showing steadfast faith and unconditional forgiveness. I can face adversity with courage and extend grace to others, even in the most challenging situations. I must remember that my strength comes from a divine source, and with God's help, I can forgive and inspire forgiveness in others."
ESV Text
Acts 8:34-35 (ESV) says: "And the eunuch said to Philip, 'About whom, I ask you, does the prophet say this, about himself or about someone else?' Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning with this Scripture, he told him the good news about Jesus."
Applied Version
This passage shows Philip seizing the opportunity to share the gospel in a personal and contextually relevant way. It illustrates the importance of being ready to explain our faith and the scriptures, especially when questioned directly. It emphasizes the value of personal evangelism and the impact of tailoring our message to meet the individual understanding and needs of our listeners.
Personal Reflection
How prepared are you to share the story of Jesus when the opportunity arises? Are there specific scriptures or teachings you find challenging to explain? How could you better equip yourself to share effectively with others who may be curious about your faith?
Call to Action
Take steps to deepen your understanding of the Bible and the life of Jesus to be ready for such opportunities. Consider joining or forming a study group to discuss and explore difficult questions about faith. Be open to conversations about faith with others, and practice explaining your beliefs in a clear, compassionate, and relatable manner.
Personal Affirmation
"I will be proactive in learning more about my faith so I can confidently share the good news of Jesus. I can be an effective witness by understanding and addressing the questions and concerns of others. I must always be ready and willing to discuss my faith, using the Bible as my guide and the Holy Spirit as my helper."
ESV Text
Acts 9:3-6 (ESV) says: "Now as he went on his way, he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven shone around him. And falling to the ground, he heard a voice saying to him, 'Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?' And he said, 'Who are you, Lord?' And he said, 'I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. But rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.'"
Applied Version
This powerful conversion story of Saul, later known as Paul, showcases a profound transformation initiated by a direct encounter with Jesus. It highlights that true change often begins with a moment of realization and humility. Saul's experience teaches us that no one is beyond redemption, and everyone's journey can pivot towards God’s purpose at any moment.
Personal Reflection
Reflect on moments in your own life that led to significant changes in your beliefs or behaviors. Was there a particular event or realization that reshaped your understanding of God? How can you remain open to God's transforming power in your life, even when it challenges your current path?
Call to Action
Be vigilant for moments that may require you to reconsider or alter your path in alignment with God’s will. Share your transformation stories with others to inspire them about the possibilities of change through faith. Be a supportive presence for those who are encountering their own transformative moments.
Personal Affirmation
"I will be receptive to God's guidance and ready for transformation at any moment. I can help others see the power of God's love and redemption in their lives. I must remember that my journey is continually shaped by divine encounters, guiding me towards a deeper purpose."
ESV Text
Acts 10:34-35 (ESV) says: "So Peter opened his mouth and said: 'Truly I understand that God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him.'"
Applied Version
This passage marks a pivotal moment where Peter realizes that the gospel is for everyone, not just a select group. It underscores the universality of God’s message and His acceptance of all who seek Him with reverence and righteousness. It's a call to embrace diversity and to recognize that God's love transcends cultural, ethnic, and national boundaries.
Personal Reflection
Reflect on your own attitudes towards those from different backgrounds or beliefs. Are there prejudices you need to confront or biases to overcome? How can you more fully embody the inclusivity of God’s love in your interactions with others?
Call to Action
Actively seek to broaden your understanding and appreciation of different cultures and communities. Engage with people who are different from you in respectful and meaningful ways. Advocate for inclusivity in your church and community, ensuring that everyone feels welcomed and valued.
Personal Affirmation
"I will live out the truth that God shows no partiality. I can make a difference by treating all people with respect and kindness, promoting an atmosphere of acceptance. I must continually strive to reflect God’s universal love in every aspect of my life."
The Book of Acts Outline: 1. Introduction ( 1:1–26 ) a. Dedication to Theophilus ( 1:1–5 ) b. The Ascension ( 1:6–11 ) c. Matthias Replaces Judas ( 1:12–26 ) 2. Witnesses in Jerusalem ( 2:1–8:3 ) a. Pentecost ( 2:1–47 ) i. The Holy Spirit at Pentecost ( 2:1–13 ) ii. Peter Addresses the Crowd ( 2:14–36 ) iii. Three Thousand Believe ( 2:37–41 ) iv. The Fellowship of Believers ( 2:42–47 ) b. The Early Church in Jerusalem ( 3:1–8:3 ) i. First Controversy at the Temple ( 3:1–4:31 ) 1. A Lame Man Walks ( 3:1–10 ) 2. Peter Speaks in Solomon’s Colonnade ( 3:11–26 ) 3. Peter and John before the Sanhedrin ( 4:1–12 ) 4. The Name Forbidden ( 4:13–22 ) 5. The Believer’s Prayer ( 4:23–31 ) ii. The Church Community ( 4:32–5:11 ) 1. Sharing among Believers ( 4:32–37 ) 2. Ananias and Sapphira ( 5:1–11 ) iii. Second Controversy at the Temple ( 5:12– ) 1. The Apostles Heal Many ( 5:12–16 ) 2. The Apostles Arrested and Freed ( 5:17–23 ) 3. The Apostles before the Sanhedrin ( 5:24–32 ) 4. Gamaliel’s Advice ( 5:33–42 ) iv. Early Persecutions ( 6:1–8:3 ) 1. The Choosing of the Seven ( 6:1–7 ) 2. The Arrest of Stephen ( 6:8–15 ) 3. Stephen’s Defense ( 7:1–53 ) a. Patriarchal Narratives ( 7:1–19 ) i. The Call of Abraham ( 7:1–8 ) ii. Joseph Sold into Egypt ( 7:9–14 ) iii. Israel Oppressed in Egypt ( 7:15–19 ) b. Moses Narrative ( 7:20–38 ) i. The Birth and Adoption of Moses ( 7:20–22 ) ii. The Rejection and Flight of Moses ( 7:23–29 ) iii. The Call of Moses ( 7:30–38 ) c. The Rebellion of Israel ( 7:39–43 ) d. The Tabernacle of the Testimony ( 7:44–50 ) e. The Accused becomes the Accuser ( 7:51–53 ) 4. The Stoning of Stephen ( 7:54–60 ) 5. Saul Persecutes the Church ( 8:1–3 ) 3. Witnesses in Judea and Samaria ( 8:4–12:25 ) a. Philip’s Ministry ( 8:4–40 ) i. Philip Goes to Samaria ( 8:4–8 ) ii. Simon the Sorcerer ( 8:9–25 ) iii. Philip and the Ethiopian ( 8:26–40 ) b. Conversion of Saul of Tarsus ( 9:1–30 ) i. The Road to Damascus ( 9:1–9 ) ii. Ananias Baptizes Saul ( 9:10–19 ) iii. Saul Preaches at Damascus ( 9:20–22 ) iv. The Escape from Damascus ( 9:23–25 ) v. Saul in Jerusalem ( 9:26–30 ) c. Peter’s Ministry ( 9:31–11:18 ) i. The Healing of Aeneas ( 9:31–35 ) ii. The Raising of Tabitha ( 9:36–43 ) iii. Cornelius, the God-Fearing Gentile ( 10:1–11:18 ) 1. Cornelius Sends for Peter ( 10:1–8 ) 2. Peter’s Vision ( 10:9–16 ) 3. Peter Called to Caesarea ( 10:17–23 ) 4. Peter Visits Cornelius ( 10:24–33 ) 5. Good News for Gentiles ( 10:34–43 ) 6. The Gentiles Receive the Holy Spirit ( 10:44–48 ) 7. Peter’s Report at Jerusalem ( 11:1–18 ) d. The Church at Antioch ( 11:19–30 ) e. Herod Persecutes the Church ( 12:1–25 ) i. James Killed, Peter Imprisoned ( 12:1–4 ) ii. The Rescue of Peter ( 12:5–19 ) iii. The Death of Herod ( 12:20–25 ) 4. Witnesses to the Ends of the Earth ( 13:1–28:31 ) a. Paul’s First Missionary Journey to Asia Minor ( 13:1–14:28 ) i. The Journey Begins ( 13:1–3 ) ii. On Cyprus ( 13:4–12 ) iii. In Pisidian Antioch ( 13:13–52 ) iv. At Iconium ( 14:1–7 ) v. In Lystra and Derbe ( 14:8–20 ) vi. The Return to Pisidian Antioch ( 14:21–25 ) vii. The Report to the Church at Antioch ( 14:26–28 ) b. The Jerusalem Council ( 15:1–35 ) i. The Dispute over Circumcision ( 15:1–6 ) ii. Peter, Barnabas, and Paul Make Their Arguments ( 15:7–12 ) iii. James, the Brother of Jesus, Makes the Ruling ( 15:13–29 ) 1. The Fallen Tent of David ( 15:13–18 ) 2. The Four Things ( 15:19–21 ) 3. The Letter to the Gentile Believers ( 15:22–29 ) iv. The Believers at Antioch Rejoice ( 15:30–35 ) c. Paul’s Second Missionary Journey to Asia Minor and Greece ( 15:36–18:22 ) i. Division between Paul and Barnabas ( 15:36–41 ) ii. Timothy Joins Paul and Silas ( 16:1–5 ) iii. Paul’s Vision of the Macedonian ( 16:6–10 ) iv. Lydia’s Conversion in Philippi ( 16:11–15 ) v. Persecution on the Road ( 16:16–40 ) 1. The Girl with a Spirit of Divination ( 16:16–21 ) 2. Paul and Silas Imprisoned ( 16:22–24 ) 3. The Conversion of the Jailer ( 16:25–34 ) 4. An Official Apology ( 16:35–40 ) vi. The Uproar in Thessalonica ( 17:1–9 ) vii. The Character of the Bereans ( 17:10–15 ) viii. In Athens ( 17:16–34 ) 1. The Epicurean and Stoic Philosophers ( 17:16–21 ) 2. Paul’s Address in the Areopagus ( 17:22–34 ) ix. In Corinth ( 18:1–11 ) x. Paul before Gallio ( 18:12–17 ) xi. Paul Returns to Antioch ( 18:18–22 ) d. Paul’s Third Missionary Journey to Asia Minor and Greece ( 18:23–20:38 ) i. Apollos ( 18:23–28 ) ii. In Ephesus ( 19:1–41 ) 1. The Holy Spirit Received ( 19:1–7 ) 2. Paul Ministers ( 19:8–12 ) 3. The Sons of Sceva ( 19:13–20 ) 4. The Riot ( 19:21–41 ) iii. Paul in Macedonia and Greece ( 20:1–6 ) iv. Eutychus Revived at Troas ( 20:7–12 ) v. From Troas to Miletus ( 20:13–16 ) vi. Paul’s Farewell to the Ephesians ( 20:17–38 ) e. Paul Travels to Jerusalem ( 21:1–22:30 ) i. The Journey to Jerusalem ( 21:1–7 ) ii. Paul Visits Philip the Evangelist ( 21:8–16 ) iii. Paul’s Arrival at Jerusalem ( 21:17–26 ) iv. Paul Seized at the Temple ( 21:27–36 ) v. Paul Addresses the Crowd ( 21:37–22:30 ) 1. Permission to Speak ( 21:37–40 ) 2. Paul’s Defense to the Crowd ( 22:1–21 ) 3. Paul the Roman Citizen ( 22:22–30 ) f. Paul on Trial ( 23:1–26:32 ) i. Paul before the Sanhedrin ( 23:1–22 ) 1. On Trial for the Hope in the Resurrection of the Dead ( 23:1–11 ) 2. The Plot to Kill Paul ( 23:12–22 ) ii. Paul before Felix ( 23:23–24:27 ) 1. Paul Sent to Felix ( 23:23–35 ) 2. Tertullus Prosecutes Paul ( 24:1–9 ) 3. Paul’s Defense to Felix ( 24:10–21 ) 4. The Verdict Postposed ( 24:22–27 ) iii. Paul before Festus ( 25:1–22 ) 1. Paul’s Trial ( 25:1–9 ) 2. Paul Appeals to Caesar ( 25:10–12 ) 3. Festus Consults Agrippa ( 25:13–22 ) iv. Paul before Agrippa ( 25:23–26:32 ) 1. Agrippa and Bernice Arrive ( 25:23–27 ) 2. Paul’s Testimony to Agrippa ( 26:1–23 ) 3. Festus Interrupts Paul’s Defense ( 26:24–32 ) g. Paul Travels to Rome ( 27:1–28:31 ) i. The Journey ( 27:1–28:15 ) 1. Sailing to Rome ( 27:1–12 ) 2. The Storm at Sea ( 27:13–26 ) 3. The Shipwreck ( 27:27–44 ) 4. Ashore on Malta ( 28:1–10 ) 5. Paul Arrives in Italy ( 28:11–15 ) ii. Paul Preaches at Rome ( 28:16–31 )
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