Acts - 12 and 14 Sessions
Here there are 2 approaches of study for Acts. The first one involves a thematic approach emphasizing:
Jew-Gentile Interactions — Emphasize passages where racial, ethnic, and cultural barriers are challenged (Sessions 3, 5, 9, 10).
Role of Women — Highlight key women like Lydia, Priscilla, Sapphira, and others (Sessions 5, 7, 10).
Persecution & Opposition — Explore how the church responds with prayer, courage, and unity (Sessions 4, 6, 11, 12).
Devotional Applications — Tie each lesson to contemporary spiritual practices, such as prayer, giving, forgiveness, unity, mission.
Unity & Boldness — Help the group see how the Spirit empowered diverse people to become one, bold family (Sessions 1, 3, 10).
While the second one a the bottom is a traditional, historical walk through the events recorded in Acts.
1 – “Empowered to Witness”- Acts 1:1–2:13
2 – “Pentecost and the Birth of the Church”- Acts 2:14–47
3 – “Healing and Bold Witness”- Acts 3–4
4 – “Purity and Power in the Early Church”- Acts 5:1–42
5 – “Growing Pains and Godly Solutions”- Acts 6–7
6 – “Breaking Barriers”- Acts 8
7 – “A New Kind of Convert”- Acts 9
8 – “Gentiles Welcomed”- Acts 10–11
9 – “Women and Witnesses in the Church”- Acts 12–16
10 – “Turning the World Upside Down”- Acts 17–19
11 – “Trials and Testimonies”- Acts 20–26
12 – “To the Ends of the Earth”- Acts 27–28
A TRADITIONAL-HISTORICAL APPROACH
1: The Birth of the Church - Acts 1:1–11
2: Pentecost and the First Converts - Acts 2
3: A Growing and Persecuted Church - Acts 3–4
4: Holiness and Integrity in the Church - Acts 5
5: Choosing Leaders and Facing Persecution - Acts 6–7
6: The Gospel Goes to Samaria - Acts 8
7: The Conversion of Saul - Acts 9
8: The Gospel Reaches the Gentiles - Acts 10–11
9: The Church in Antioch and James' Death - Acts 12
10: Paul’s First Missionary Journey - Acts 13–14
11: The Jerusalem Council - Acts 15
12: Paul’s Second Missionary Journey - Acts 16–18
13: Paul’s Trials and Journey to Rome - Acts 19–26
14: Paul’s Journey to Rome & the Church’s Future - Acts 27–28
The book of Acts, also known as the Acts of the Apostles, chronicles the early Christian church's development and expansion after Jesus' resurrection and ascension. It highlights key events such as the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, the missionary journeys of Paul, and the growth of the church despite persecution. A pivotal moment is recorded in Acts 1:8, where Jesus says, "But 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." Word Doc Download
The book of Acts is a vibrant tapestry woven with the threads of the early Christian church's birth and growth. Written by Luke, the same author of the Gospel bearing his name, Acts chronicles the dynamic spread of the gospel from Jerusalem to the far reaches of the Roman Empire. Beginning with the ascension of Jesus and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, the narrative follows the apostles as they boldly witness to the resurrection of Christ, perform miracles, and face persecution. As Acts 1:8 states, "But 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." This verse sets the stage for the entire book, outlining the geographical and spiritual expansion of the early church.
A significant theme in Acts is the inclusion of the Gentiles into God's salvation plan, a development that underscores the universal scope of the gospel. The conversion of Saul of Tarsus, who becomes the Apostle Paul, marks a pivotal moment, leading to his missionary journeys that spread the message of Jesus far beyond Jewish communities. Historian and theologian Justo González noted, "The book of Acts is about the unstoppable force of the gospel, breaking down barriers of race, ethnicity, and social status." Paul's journeys illustrate this truth, as he establishes churches, appoints leaders, and addresses the challenges and conflicts that arise within these diverse communities.
Acts also emphasizes the power of the Holy Spirit, evident in the apostles' preaching, healing, and guiding the church's decisions. The Holy Spirit's role is not limited to grandiose public acts but also includes personal guidance and encouragement. Renowned preacher Charles Spurgeon once said, "Without the Spirit of God, we can do nothing. We are as ships without wind. We are useless." The Spirit's presence transforms ordinary individuals into bold witnesses, embodying Christ's love and power. As senior members of the faith community, this theme serves as a poignant reminder that the Spirit's work is ongoing and vital in our lives, empowering us to continue the mission set forth by the early church.
The book of Acts is a testament to God's unrelenting pursuit of humanity through the gospel of Jesus Christ. Its accounts of miraculous events, courageous preaching, and the establishment of the church serve as both inspiration and instruction for believers today. As you delve into this study, may the examples of faith and resilience found in Acts encourage and strengthen you in your walk with Christ.