S. Michael Houdmann Supporter Got Questions Ministries

Author: The Book of Acts does not specifically identify its author. From Luke 1:1-4 and Acts 1:1-3, it is clear that the same author wrote both Luke and Acts. The tradition from the earliest days o...

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November 15 2013 • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Jack Gutknecht Supporter Arizona Bible College graduate and Dallas Seminary graduate

What is the book of Acts? I think the very best of all Scriptural outlines of the book of Acts can be found in what Jesus said in Acts 1:8. "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." Dr David Jeremiah (A. D. the Bible Continues - The Book of Acts: The Incredible Story of the First Followers of Jesus, According to the Bible) gives us a VERY similar outline to the one below. Jerusalem (Acts 1:1-8:3), Judea and Samaria (Acts 8:4-12:25), The ends of the earth (Acts 13:1-28:31).

Jerusalem (Acts 1-7): The book begins with the Holy Spirit's coming at Pentecost and the formation of the early church in Jerusalem. The apostles preach and perform miracles, but also face opposition, leading to persecution that ultimately causes believers to scatter.

Judea and Samaria (Acts 8-11): As believers flee Jerusalem, the gospel spreads to the surrounding regions. Philip's ministry in Samaria is a key part of this stage, followed by Peter's work in Judea and his vision that opens the door for the gospel to be preached to the Gentiles.

The ends of the earth (Acts 12-28): This is the longest section, detailing the 3 missionary journeys of Paul and others to the wider world. Syrian Antioch (Acts 11) marks the mission's expansion to a major Gentile city. Asia Minor, Cyprus, and Galatia (Acts 13-14) follow as Paul and Barnabas establish churches. Macedonia and Achaia (Acts 16-20) show the gospel reaching Europe. Rome (Acts 21-28) closes the book with Paul's arrival in the empire's heart, fulfilling the final part of Jesus's command as he proclaims the kingdom of God.

And that is how the Book of Acts can be outlined geographically (see Acts 1:8 and AI). 

Favorite verses are "God raised Jesus from the dead and we are witnesses of this." (Acts 2:32).

"Every day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved" (Acts 2:47).

"As they stoned him, Stephen prayed, 'Lord Jesus, receieve my spirit.' He fell to his knees shouting, 'Lord, don't charge them with this sin!'" (Acts 7:60).

"The word of God continued to spread, and there were many new believers" (Acts 12:24).

4 days ago • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report