Study # 1 Acts 1:1-11 & 2:1-12
As we begin our journey in the book of Acts, let’s pause and notice a few important things that Luke gives us right at the start of this book.
Introduction
1) Just like his Gospel, Acts is dedicated to Theophilus. Now, Theophilus may have been a wealthy supporter of Luke’s work, or someone Luke was trying to win over to faith in Jesus. But the name is interesting. Theophilus means “friend of God.” So this dedication may be for a real person, or it may be for all who count themselves as friends of God. In that sense, it could even be dedicated to you and me.
2) Luke tells us that Jesus had given “many convincing proofs” that he was alive. Luke himself had become convinced of the truth and power of the resurrection, and he wanted others to be convinced too. Unlike every other book in the bible, this was written by a non-jewish person who converted to Christianity, and hoped that through his writings others would also be convinced of Jesus.
3) Acts is a continuation of the Gospel story. It’s still the story of Jesus.
People sometimes call the book “the Acts of the Apostles,” or “the Acts of the Church,” but it might be better to think of it as the Acts of Jesus, through His Spirit, in His Body, the Church.
That’s key to remember. Acts is not just history—it’s theology. It’s a testimony to how God was at work in the early church, and how He continues to invite us into that same mission today.
4) Luke wants us to see that the church is carrying on the work of Jesus. The stories, the miracles, the sermons, even the order of events—often echo what Jesus himself did. keep an eye out for these subtle echoes.
With these things in mind, let’s now read the two opening secitons of the book Acts
Read
Acts 1:1-11 & 2:1-12
Read out loud, either one person reads the whole thing, or separate it out by verses. After you read through the passage out loud, take a little bit of time to re-read it individually, noting and marking verses, words or phrases that stand out in the story.
Three Quick Questions
Is there anything that stands out to you as we read through the passage?
Did you learn anything new or surprising about Jesus or God’s character?
Are there any other stories or passages in the bible that Luke may be subtly referencing, Why is Luke connecting this story to that passage?
Questions for Diving Deeper
In Acts 1:3, Luke notes that there were “many convincing proofs” about Jesus’ resurrection. Are there any proofs about the resurrection that have helped you in your faith?
In Acts 1:6, the disciples ask Jesus, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?”
Why do you think the disciples ask this question? What does it teach us about the disciples?
Is Jesus’ response encouraging or frustrating for you?
Commentators note that Acts 1:8 is both the thesis and outline of the book of Acts “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” What do we learn about the misison of the church from this thesis statement?
Acts 2:1-12 tells the incredible story of the early church speaking in many languages by the power of the Holy Spirit. Take a moment to read Genesis 11:1-9. What parallels and contrasts do you notice between these stories? Why do you think God is retelling, or maybe better put, undoing the story of Babel?
What do these two passages teach us about the mission of the church? Is there anything that you think we should apply to our lives today.
Benediction
Go now as God’s chosen witnesses
to testify that Christ has been raised
and that we are raised with him.
Do not look for him among the dead,
but be glad and rejoice in his salvation.
And may God raise you from all that would entomb you;
May Christ Jesus call you by name and go ahead of you;
And may the Holy Spirit empower you for all that is good.
We go in peace to love and serve the Lord,
….In the name of Christ. Amen.
