The Book of ActsThe Book of Acts

John Oakes, PhDJohn Oakes, PhD

San DiegoSan Diego

September, 2015September, 2015

The Agora in Athens

Themes in ActsThemes in Acts

1. The work of the Holy Spirit in establishing 1. The work of the Holy Spirit in establishing the Church. Acts 1:2, 1:4-5, 1:7, 1:16the Church. Acts 1:2, 1:4-5, 1:7, 1:16

2. The Kingdom of God. Acts 1:3, 1:62. The Kingdom of God. Acts 1:3, 1:6

3. Growth and development of the Church. 1:83. Growth and development of the Church. 1:8

4. Fulfillment of Old Testament Prophecy 1:204. Fulfillment of Old Testament Prophecy 1:20

Acts TimelineActs Timeline

AD 30AD 30 Pentecost Acts 2 Pentecost Acts 2

3232 Stephen martyred, Church Scattered. Acts 8:1-3 Stephen martyred, Church Scattered. Acts 8:1-3

33 or 3433 or 34 Conversion of Saul/Paul Acts 9:1-22Conversion of Saul/Paul Acts 9:1-22

about 37about 37 First Gentiles baptized. Acts 10-11:18First Gentiles baptized. Acts 10-11:18

42 or 4342 or 43 Barnabas, Paul in Antioch. Acts 11:22-24Barnabas, Paul in Antioch. Acts 11:22-24

45-4745-47 Paul’s first missionary journey Acts 13-14Paul’s first missionary journey Acts 13-14

4848 Council in Jerusalem. Acts Council in Jerusalem. Acts

48-5248-52 Paul’s 2 Paul’s 2ndnd missionary Journey Acts 16-18:22 missionary Journey Acts 16-18:22

52-5752-57 Paul’s 3 Paul’s 3rdrd mission journey Acts 18:23-21:16 mission journey Acts 18:23-21:16

5757 Paul arrested in Jerusalem Paul arrested in Jerusalem

Acts Timeline Acts Timeline

57-5957-59 Paul a prisoner in Caesarea Paul a prisoner in Caesarea

60-6260-62 Paul a prisoner in Rome Book of Acts ends. Paul a prisoner in Rome Book of Acts ends.

6262 Paul probably freed. Went to Spain? Paul probably freed. Went to Spain?

65 (?)65 (?) Martyrdom in Rome Martyrdom in Rome

Luke/ActsLuke/Acts

Acts 1:1 Luke contains the things Jesus Acts 1:1 Luke contains the things Jesus BEGAN to do….BEGAN to do….

Luke: Jesus goes to Jerusalem.Luke: Jesus goes to Jerusalem.

Acts: Jesus goes out from Jerusalem (Acts 1:8)Acts: Jesus goes out from Jerusalem (Acts 1:8)

Jesus in ActsJesus in ActsWorks miracles Acts 3:6,10,30 Acts 9:34, 13:11, 14:3

Seen at God’s right hand Acts 7:55-56

Appears to Saul Acts 9:4-5

Speaks to Ananias Acts 9:10-16

Tells Peter to go to Cornelius’ house Acts 10:13-15

Comforts Paul and Silas in prison Acts 18:9-10

Sends Paul to preach Acts 22:17-21

Tells Paul he must go to Rome Acts 23:11

Q: What do we learn from all this about us?

I. The Holy Spirit in ActsI. The Holy Spirit in Acts

Acts 1:2 Instructions through the Holy Spirit.Acts 1:2 Instructions through the Holy Spirit.

1:4-5 Wait for the Holy Spirit.1:4-5 Wait for the Holy Spirit.

1:7 Power from the Holy Spirit.1:7 Power from the Holy Spirit.

1:16 The Holy Spirit spoke the prophecies1:16 The Holy Spirit spoke the prophecies

2:1-4 The Holy Spirit falls on the apostles.2:1-4 The Holy Spirit falls on the apostles.

2:17-18 Pouring of the Holy Spirit prophesied in Joel.2:17-18 Pouring of the Holy Spirit prophesied in Joel.

4:8 Peter spoke, as he was filled by the Holy Spirit.4:8 Peter spoke, as he was filled by the Holy Spirit.

4:25 He spoke through David.4:25 He spoke through David.

4:31 Filled with the Holy Spirit, the house was shaken.4:31 Filled with the Holy Spirit, the house was shaken.

5:32 The Holy Spirit witnesses to the resurrection.5:32 The Holy Spirit witnesses to the resurrection.

6:3-6 Those known to be full of the Holy Spirit chosen 6:3-6 Those known to be full of the Holy Spirit chosen

to lead.to lead.

The Holy Spirit in ActsThe Holy Spirit in Acts

7:55 Stephen was full of the Holy Spirit.7:55 Stephen was full of the Holy Spirit.

8:29 The Holy Spirit tells Philip to share with the 8:29 The Holy Spirit tells Philip to share with the Ethiopian Eunuch.Ethiopian Eunuch.

9:31 The Church strengthened and encouraged by the 9:31 The Church strengthened and encouraged by the Holy Spirit.Holy Spirit.

10:19 The Holy Spirit tells Peter to go with the three 10:19 The Holy Spirit tells Peter to go with the three Gentile visitors.Gentile visitors.

10:44-47 The Holy Spirit fell on Cornelius and his house.10:44-47 The Holy Spirit fell on Cornelius and his house.

11:28 The Holy Spirit tells Agabus about a famine.11:28 The Holy Spirit tells Agabus about a famine.

13:2-4 The Holy Spirit set apart Barnabas and Saul for 13:2-4 The Holy Spirit set apart Barnabas and Saul for missionary work, and sends them off.missionary work, and sends them off.

13:52 The disciples filled with joy and the Holy Spirit.13:52 The disciples filled with joy and the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit In ActsThe Holy Spirit In Acts

15:28 The Holy Spirit influenced the decision of the 15:28 The Holy Spirit influenced the decision of the Jerusalem Council.Jerusalem Council.

16:7 The Spirit of Jesus prevents going to Bithyia.16:7 The Spirit of Jesus prevents going to Bithyia.

20:22 Paul compelled by the Holy Spirit to go to 20:22 Paul compelled by the Holy Spirit to go to Jerusalem.Jerusalem.

20:23 The Holy Spirit warns Paul of danger.20:23 The Holy Spirit warns Paul of danger.

20:28 The Holy Spirit makes and chooses elders.20:28 The Holy Spirit makes and chooses elders.

21:11 The Holy Spirit tells Agabus how Paul will die.21:11 The Holy Spirit tells Agabus how Paul will die.

Q: What does all this tell you?Q: What does all this tell you?

II. Acts and the Kingdom of GodII. Acts and the Kingdom of God

Acts 1:3 Jesus talking about the Kingdom of God.

Acts 1:6 The disciples were sure confused about this!

Acts 2 The Kingdom comes, as prophesied

(Acts 2:17-21 esp. v. 20 TDOTL)

Acts 10 The Kingdom comes to the Gentiles.

Acts 8:12 Philip proclaims the Kingdom

14:22 We are on our way into the kingdom of God

19:8 He persuaded them about the kingdom of God., 20:25 Paul preached everywhere about the Kingdom of God.

28:23,31 Paul preached the kingdom of God.

III. Growth and Development of the ChurchIII. Growth and Development of the Church

Acts 1:8Acts 1:8

““You will be my You will be my witnesses… to witnesses… to the ends of the the ends of the

earth”earth”

How did they do it? How did they do it?

How can we do it?How can we do it?

The Marketplace in Corinth

Why Did They Change the World/Why Did They Change the World/How Can We Change the World?How Can We Change the World?

Acts 5:39Acts 5:39

A. They knew Jesus. The personal effect of the man A. They knew Jesus. The personal effect of the man Jesus of Nazareth.Jesus of Nazareth.

B. Powerful truth-claims.B. Powerful truth-claims.

Those two alone were not enough Those two alone were not enough

to sustain a movementto sustain a movement

Changing the World in Our TimeChanging the World in Our Time

C. C. Moral/Ethical superiority of the Moral/Ethical superiority of the

Christians.Christians.

D. D. They could successfully answer the hard They could successfully answer the hard

questions. Intellectual superiority.questions. Intellectual superiority.

E. E. Christianity gave dignity to all peopleChristianity gave dignity to all people

The church had compassion like no oneThe church had compassion like no one

elseelse

F. F. Because God was with them (Acts 5:39)Because God was with them (Acts 5:39)

A. The Life of Jesus: Knowing JesusA. The Life of Jesus: Knowing Jesus

Acts 4:1-21 Fear to Fearlessness.Acts 4:1-21 Fear to Fearlessness.

Acts 4:13 They took note that they had been Acts 4:13 They took note that they had been with Jesus.with Jesus.

Why was Paul transformed? Acts 9:1-16Why was Paul transformed? Acts 9:1-16

We need to meet Jesus on our road to We need to meet Jesus on our road to Damascus (or Reno, or Las Vegas or….)Damascus (or Reno, or Las Vegas or….)

B. Powerful Truth ClaimsB. Powerful Truth Claims

Acts 2:22-24Acts 2:22-24– Jesus fulfilled the OT Jesus fulfilled the OT

propheciesprophecies– Jesus worked signs, Jesus worked signs,

wonders and miracleswonders and miracles– Jesus was raised from the Jesus was raised from the

deaddead

Acts 3:11-16, 4:33, 5:29-Acts 3:11-16, 4:33, 5:29-32, 13:26-3532, 13:26-35

Acts 26:24-32 True and Acts 26:24-32 True and ReasonableReasonable

Be born in BethlehemBe born in Bethlehem

Be raised in Galilee near NazarethBe raised in Galilee near Nazareth

Be despised and rejected by menBe despised and rejected by men

Be meek and silent before his accusersBe meek and silent before his accusers

Be “pierced”Be “pierced”

Be crucifiedBe crucified

Have his garments divided and gambled overHave his garments divided and gambled over

Be betrayed for 30 pieces of silverBe betrayed for 30 pieces of silver

Come to Jerusalem to make atonement for sin in Come to Jerusalem to make atonement for sin in about AD 33about AD 33

And many more….And many more….

C. Ethically and Morally They Were C. Ethically and Morally They Were Very Different. We need to be as well!!Very Different. We need to be as well!!

Acts 17:5-9Acts 17:5-9

Acts 19:17-20 Acts 19:17-20 Confronting the Confronting the world and its ways.world and its ways.

Acts 19:23-41 They Acts 19:23-41 They confronted idolatryconfronted idolatry

Us today?Us today?

Marketplace, Corinth

Being Different Just Might Get Us Into TroubleBeing Different Just Might Get Us Into Trouble

A Little Riot in Ephesus

D. Engage the World Intellectually With the D. Engage the World Intellectually With the Christian World ViewChristian World View

Acts 17:16-34Acts 17:16-34

Paul in AthensPaul in Athens

We need to confront We need to confront the enemy in the the enemy in the Areopagus and in Areopagus and in the Lecture Hall of the Lecture Hall of TyrannusTyrannus

The Areopagus in Athens

The Lecture Hall of TyrannusThe Lecture Hall of Tyrannus

Acts 17:16-34 Paul confronts Greek World ViewsActs 17:16-34 Paul confronts Greek World Views

God is Creator. He exists outside creation.God is Creator. He exists outside creation.– Disproves pantheism/Stoicism.Disproves pantheism/Stoicism.

God is close to us.God is close to us.– Disproves deism/Epicureanism.Disproves deism/Epicureanism.

God is personal and has given us an individual purpose.God is personal and has given us an individual purpose.

God will bring all of us to judgment. Evil will be defeatedGod will bring all of us to judgment. Evil will be defeated– Disproves dualism/Gnosticism.Disproves dualism/Gnosticism.

Paul Confronts Greek World ViewsPaul Confronts Greek World Views

The Bible and Other World Views (cont.)The Bible and Other World Views (cont.)

Acts 17:16-34 Paul shares the gospel by arguing for Acts 17:16-34 Paul shares the gospel by arguing for the Christian World View.the Christian World View.– v. 22-23 Paul finds common ground.v. 22-23 Paul finds common ground.

– v. 24-28 Paul argues for the superiority and the truth of the v. 24-28 Paul argues for the superiority and the truth of the Christian world view as opposed to Christian world view as opposed to Epicureanism/pantheism and Stoicism/deismEpicureanism/pantheism and Stoicism/deism

– v. 28 Paul quotes from Aretas a Stoic philosopher. “ For we v. 28 Paul quotes from Aretas a Stoic philosopher. “ For we are his offspring.”are his offspring.”

– v. 29-31 Having laid the groundwork, Paul points them to v. 29-31 Having laid the groundwork, Paul points them to Jesus.Jesus.

– v. 32-34 Some, but not all were converted.v. 32-34 Some, but not all were converted.

Christianity Offers Solutions to the Big Problems of Christianity Offers Solutions to the Big Problems of Human BeingsHuman Beings

The Problem of EvilThe Problem of Evil

The Problem of Suffering The Problem of Suffering

The Problem of DeathThe Problem of Death

The Christian World View Has Given Us:The Christian World View Has Given Us:

ScienceScience

Abolition of Slavery (Wilberforce)Abolition of Slavery (Wilberforce)

Civil RightsCivil Rights

Women’s RightsWomen’s Rights

Christian groups do a majority of all benevolent Christian groups do a majority of all benevolent work in the world (James 1:27, Micah 6:8)work in the world (James 1:27, Micah 6:8)

How, then, should we interact with members of other How, then, should we interact with members of other religions?religions?

Find common ground.Find common ground.

Give respect where respect is due.Give respect where respect is due.

Acknowledge the good and do not make personal Acknowledge the good and do not make personal attacks—especially toward revered people.attacks—especially toward revered people.

Highlight distinctions in world view/theology and Highlight distinctions in world view/theology and introduce them to Jesus Christ.introduce them to Jesus Christ.

This is EXACTLY what Paul did in Acts 17:22-34This is EXACTLY what Paul did in Acts 17:22-34

E. The Church Met Needs/We Need E. The Church Met Needs/We Need to Meet Needsto Meet Needs

Acts 2:44-45 All the believers were together and Acts 2:44-45 All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling…had everything in common. Selling…

Acts 3:6-10 Silver and gold we do not have, but Acts 3:6-10 Silver and gold we do not have, but what we have we will give. In the name of Jesus, what we have we will give. In the name of Jesus, get up and walk. What a testimony. We do not get up and walk. What a testimony. We do not have much but what we have we will freely give.have much but what we have we will freely give.

Acts 4:32-35 All needs were met.Acts 4:32-35 All needs were met.

Acts 5:12-16 Meeting needs, healing.Acts 5:12-16 Meeting needs, healing.

Julian “the apostate.” (332-363) Julian “the apostate.” (332-363)

““Atheism (i.e. Christian faith) has been specially Atheism (i.e. Christian faith) has been specially advanced through the loving service rendered to advanced through the loving service rendered to strangers, and through their care for the burial of the strangers, and through their care for the burial of the dead. It is a scandal that there is not a single Jew dead. It is a scandal that there is not a single Jew who is a beggar, and that the godless Galileans care who is a beggar, and that the godless Galileans care not only for their own poor but for ours as well; not only for their own poor but for ours as well; while those who belong to us look in vain for the while those who belong to us look in vain for the help that we should render them.”help that we should render them.”

F. If God is With Us….F. If God is With Us….

Acts 5:38-39Acts 5:38-39

With God’s help, they did it. They conquered With God’s help, they did it. They conquered the world. With God’s help, so can we.the world. With God’s help, so can we.

Growth of the ChurchGrowth of the Church

Acts 2:41 Three thousand added that day.Acts 2:41 Three thousand added that day.

Acts 4:4 The disciples grew to five thousand.Acts 4:4 The disciples grew to five thousand.

Acts 5:14 More and more men and women.Acts 5:14 More and more men and women.

Acts 5:28 You have filled Jerusalem….Acts 5:28 You have filled Jerusalem….

Acts 6:7 The number of disciples increased rapidly and a Acts 6:7 The number of disciples increased rapidly and a large number of priests were obedient.large number of priests were obedient.

Acts 8:4 Those scattered preached the word wherever they Acts 8:4 Those scattered preached the word wherever they went.went.

Acts 9:31 Acts 9:31

Acts 11:24Acts 11:24

Acts 16:5 Acts 16:5

Acts 17:6 Caused trouble all over the world.Acts 17:6 Caused trouble all over the world.

Church Growth is “Normal”Church Growth is “Normal”

Acts 9:31 Grew throughout Judea, Galilee and SamariaActs 9:31 Grew throughout Judea, Galilee and Samaria

Acts 11:24 A great number…Acts 11:24 A great number…

Acts 16:5 Grew daily in numbers…Acts 16:5 Grew daily in numbers…

Acts 17:6 Caused trouble all over the world.Acts 17:6 Caused trouble all over the world.

IV. Use of PropheciesIV. Use of Prophecies

Context: The early church was entirely JewishContext: The early church was entirely Jewish

Acts 1:3 (and 8:26-34) Isaiah 52:13-53:12Acts 1:3 (and 8:26-34) Isaiah 52:13-53:12

Acts 2:17-21 Joel 2:27-32 (and Ezek 36:24-30 Acts 2:17-21 Joel 2:27-32 (and Ezek 36:24-30 and Ezek 37:11-28)and Ezek 37:11-28)

Acts 2:24-28 Psalm 16:8-11Acts 2:24-28 Psalm 16:8-11

Acts 2:34-35 Psalm 110:1-4Acts 2:34-35 Psalm 110:1-4

A Typical Sermon in ActsA Typical Sermon in Acts

I. Jesus worked miracles. Therefore he is LordI. Jesus worked miracles. Therefore he is Lord

II. Jesus fulfilled prophecy. Therefore he is II. Jesus fulfilled prophecy. Therefore he is Messiah.Messiah.

III. Jesus was crucified and raised. Therefore III. Jesus was crucified and raised. Therefore he is Savior.he is Savior.

IV. Repent and be Baptized.IV. Repent and be Baptized.

More Prophecy Use in ActsMore Prophecy Use in Acts

Acts 3:11-26 v. 18 Isaiah 59:1-12, Ps 22:12-18Acts 3:11-26 v. 18 Isaiah 59:1-12, Ps 22:12-18

v. 22-23 Deut 18:15-19v. 22-23 Deut 18:15-19

v. 25 Gen 12:3, 18:8, 22:18v. 25 Gen 12:3, 18:8, 22:18

Acts 4:8-12 Ps 118:22Acts 4:8-12 Ps 118:22

Acts 4:25-26 Ps 2:1-1Acts 4:25-26 Ps 2:1-1

Acts Ch 1Acts Ch 1

Jesus prepares the disciples to carry on his work.Jesus prepares the disciples to carry on his work.

a. By teaching about the kingdom.a. By teaching about the kingdom.

b. By sending the Holy Spirit to help and guide them.b. By sending the Holy Spirit to help and guide them.

c. By giving them a mission and a vision.c. By giving them a mission and a vision.

d. By getting them organized.d. By getting them organized.

Could we improve on that?Could we improve on that?

Acts Ch 2 The Church BeginsActs Ch 2 The Church Begins

Acts 2:17 In these last days…. Thus begins the final Acts 2:17 In these last days…. Thus begins the final episode of the story of God’s work.episode of the story of God’s work.

Peter has the keys (Matthew 16:19)Peter has the keys (Matthew 16:19)

A one-off event (except Acts 10:44-48)A one-off event (except Acts 10:44-48)

Acts and the Holy SpiritActs and the Holy Spirit

1. The miraculous outpouring , as prophesied by John 1. The miraculous outpouring , as prophesied by John (Matthew 3:11), Joel (Joel 2:28-32) and Jesus (Acts 1:8)(Matthew 3:11), Joel (Joel 2:28-32) and Jesus (Acts 1:8)

2. The promised indwelling gift. Eph 1:13-14, Acts 2. The promised indwelling gift. Eph 1:13-14, Acts 2:36-41, Acts 5:32, Acts 19:1-72:36-41, Acts 5:32, Acts 19:1-7

3. The miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit Acts 8:14-17, 3. The miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit Acts 8:14-17, Acts 19:4-7, 2 Tim 1:6, Hebrews 2:4Acts 19:4-7, 2 Tim 1:6, Hebrews 2:4

We must keep these separate and unconfused.We must keep these separate and unconfused.

Acts 2:42-47 A Model ChurchActs 2:42-47 A Model Church

a. Great commitment to God.a. Great commitment to God.

b. Great worship.b. Great worship.

c. Great fellowship/family.c. Great fellowship/family.

d. Great growth.d. Great growth.

Acts Ch 3-4 A Great BeginningActs Ch 3-4 A Great Beginning

Acts 4:32-27 Another picture of the idea church.Acts 4:32-27 Another picture of the idea church.

Q: What area do we need to grow in to approach this Q: What area do we need to grow in to approach this ideal?ideal?

Acts 5 Persecution begins. The charge: “You have Acts 5 Persecution begins. The charge: “You have filled Jerusalem with your teaching.”filled Jerusalem with your teaching.”

Q: Have you or has your church had any persecution Q: Have you or has your church had any persecution lately?lately?

Acts 6 Dealing with Problems in the Acts 6 Dealing with Problems in the ChurchChurch

Greek-speaking foreigners vs. Aramaic-speaking local Greek-speaking foreigners vs. Aramaic-speaking local Jews.Jews.

Solution: “The leader of the church should take care Solution: “The leader of the church should take care of this”of this”

Better solution: Choose men full of the Holy Spirit and Better solution: Choose men full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom.wisdom.

Q: How would you know if someone was full of the Q: How would you know if someone was full of the Holy Spirit?Holy Spirit?

Acts 7 Martyrdom of Stephen, Church Acts 7 Martyrdom of Stephen, Church ScatteredScattered

Stephen’s point: You have always rejected Stephen’s point: You have always rejected those God sent to you. It is only natural that those God sent to you. It is only natural that you also rejected the Messiah when he came.you also rejected the Messiah when he came.

Acts 8:1-4 God gives them the boot!Acts 8:1-4 God gives them the boot!

Q: Does God need to give us the boot to get Q: Does God need to give us the boot to get out there and do his work?out there and do his work?

Acts 8 Samaritan and Proselyte Acts 8 Samaritan and Proselyte ConversionsConversions

Ethiopian Eunuch a Jewish convert?Ethiopian Eunuch a Jewish convert?

Two kinds of proselytes in Judaism:Two kinds of proselytes in Judaism:

ger tzedek ger tzedek “righteous proselytes” is a gentile who has “righteous proselytes” is a gentile who has converted to Judaism, is bound to all the doctrines and converted to Judaism, is bound to all the doctrines and precepts of the Jewish religion, and is considered a full precepts of the Jewish religion, and is considered a full member of the Jewish people. member of the Jewish people.

ger toshav ger toshav "gate proselyte"is a resident alien who "gate proselyte"is a resident alien who lives in the Land of Israel and follows some of the lives in the Land of Israel and follows some of the customs. They are not required to be circumcised nor customs. They are not required to be circumcised nor to comply with the whole of the Torah. to comply with the whole of the Torah.

Acts 9:1-19, Acts 22:3-21, Acts 26:12-18Acts 9:1-19, Acts 22:3-21, Acts 26:12-18Conversion of SaulConversion of Saul

Paul:Paul:

Hebrew of HebrewsHebrew of Hebrews

Pharisee of Pharisees (Phil 3:5)Pharisee of Pharisees (Phil 3:5)

Studied under Gamaliel (Acts 22:3)Studied under Gamaliel (Acts 22:3)

The most zealous man of his day (Phil 3:6)The most zealous man of his day (Phil 3:6)

Very persuasive speaker (Acts 9:22)Very persuasive speaker (Acts 9:22)

Spoke GreekSpoke Greek

Q: Would you have shared with him?Q: Would you have shared with him?

But God had prepared his heart….But God had prepared his heart….

Another Outline of ActsAnother Outline of Acts

I. Acts 1 Jesus prepares the apostles.I. Acts 1 Jesus prepares the apostles.

II. Acts 2-12 The ministry of PeterII. Acts 2-12 The ministry of Peter

III. Acts 13-28 The ministry of Paul.III. Acts 13-28 The ministry of Paul.

Acts 9:2 Christianity is a “Way”– a way of life, Acts 9:2 Christianity is a “Way”– a way of life, not just a religion.not just a religion.

Acts 10 Conversion Of First GentilesActs 10 Conversion Of First Gentiles

Cornelius a God-fearer (Cornelius a God-fearer (ger toshavger toshav))

A centurion—a man of influenceA centurion—a man of influence

A God-fearer—attended synagogueA God-fearer—attended synagogue

Gave to the poorGave to the poor

His family all feared GodHis family all feared God

Q: Who do you hesitate to share with?Q: Who do you hesitate to share with?

- Three visions—kill and eat!Three visions—kill and eat!

- Holy Spirit tells him to goHoly Spirit tells him to go

- Prophecy fulfilledProphecy fulfilled

- Acts 10:34-35 Peter is finally getting it!Acts 10:34-35 Peter is finally getting it!

They should have known!!! Isaiah 49:6, Zechariah They should have known!!! Isaiah 49:6, Zechariah 2:112:11

Isaiah 11:10, Isaiah 56:3-7, Isaiah 60:1-3, Malachi 1:11, Isaiah 11:10, Isaiah 56:3-7, Isaiah 60:1-3, Malachi 1:11, Genesis 12:3, Psalm 22:27, Isaiah 42:4 and many Genesis 12:3, Psalm 22:27, Isaiah 42:4 and many moremore

A Light to the GentilesA Light to the Gentiles

““I will make you a light to the GentilesI will make you a light to the Gentiles

And you will bring my salvation to the ends of And you will bring my salvation to the ends of the earth.” Isaiah49:6the earth.” Isaiah49:6

Many nations will join themselves to the Lord Many nations will join themselves to the Lord on that day, and they, too, wil be my people. I on that day, and they, too, wil be my people. I will live among you, and you will know that the will live among you, and you will know that the Lord of Heave’s Armies sent me to you. Lord of Heave’s Armies sent me to you. Zechariah 2:11Zechariah 2:11

Q: Why didn’t they get it? What about us?Q: Why didn’t they get it? What about us?

Acts 11: The ReactionActs 11: The Reaction

““And when Peter was come up to And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the Jerusalem, they that were of the circumcision contended with him, circumcision contended with him, saying, ‘You went in to men saying, ‘You went in to men uncircumcised and ate with them.’” Acts uncircumcised and ate with them.’” Acts 11:2-3.11:2-3.

Chapter 13 & 14 Paul’s First Missionary Journey

Acts 13 & 14 Acts 13 & 14 The First Missionary JourneyThe First Missionary Journey

Acts 13:1-3 Chosen by the Holy Spirit.Acts 13:1-3 Chosen by the Holy Spirit.

Saul, Barnabas and John Mark, nephew of Saul, Barnabas and John Mark, nephew of Barnabas.Barnabas.

Date: About AD 44-45 Paul a Christian for Date: About AD 44-45 Paul a Christian for about 12 years.about 12 years.

Cyprus, then Asia Minor. Pisidian Antioch, Cyprus, then Asia Minor. Pisidian Antioch, Iconium, Lystra and Derbe.Iconium, Lystra and Derbe.

Acts 13:6-7 Sergius Paulus

Sir William RamsaySir William Ramsay

I found myself brought into contact with the Book of Acts as an authority for the topography, antiquities, and society of Asia Minor. It was gradually borne upon me that in various details the narrative showed marvelous truth. In fact, beginning with a fixed idea that the work was essentially a second century composition, and never relying on its evidence as trustworthy for first century conditions, I gradually came to find it a useful ally in some obscure and difficult investigations.

Luke is a historian of the first rank; not merely are his statements of fact trustworthy; he is possessed of the true historic sense; he fixes his mind on the idea and plan that rules in the evolution of history, and proportions the scale of his treatment to the importance of each incident. He seizes the important and critical events and shows their true nature at greater length, while he touches lightly or omits entirely much that was valueless for his purpose. In short, this author should be placed along with the very greatest of historians.

Sir William Ramsay, St. Paul, the Traveler and the Roman Citizen, (Hodder and

Stoughton, 1920).

Chapter 17:6 Politarchs

From a column in Thessalonika, listing six “politarchs.”

Acts 18:11-17

Proconsul in ancient Greece by the name of

Gallio

The Greek inscription refers to Gallio noted in

the Bible. It was written in the 1st century AD and was discovered in the

Temple of Apollo in Delphi in 1905.

It originally consisted of various fragments that were pieced together in

1967.

The artifact is now in the Delphi museum,

Greece.

Temple of Apollo at Delphi where Delphi Inscription was discovered in the 20th century, used to date the proconsulship of Gallio which provides a peg for the chronology of Paul.[4]

Erastus Inscription in CorinthErastus Inscription in CorinthActs 19:22 AD 50Acts 19:22 AD 50

Let no Gentile enter within the partition and barrier surrounding the Temple; whosoever is caught shall be responsible for his subsequent death.

Acts 13. On CyprusActs 13. On Cyprus

Acts 13:9 First use of Paul instead of Saul. Acts 13:9 First use of Paul instead of Saul.

Why? Because it was his Greek/Roman name. Why? Because it was his Greek/Roman name. Saul was his Jewish/Aramaic name.Saul was his Jewish/Aramaic name.

Acts 13:13 John Mark leaves the mission field.Acts 13:13 John Mark leaves the mission field.

Acts 13 In Asia MinorActs 13 In Asia Minor

Acts 13:16-41 The first recorded sermon to a largely Acts 13:16-41 The first recorded sermon to a largely Gentile audience. Gentile audience.

13:22 John the Baptist’s testimony13:22 John the Baptist’s testimony

13:27 Condemnation of Jesus fulfills Isaiah 5313:27 Condemnation of Jesus fulfills Isaiah 53

13:29 They did everything written about him Ps. 22, 13:29 They did everything written about him Ps. 22, Isaiah 53Isaiah 53

13:30-35 But God raised him from the dead Psalm 13:30-35 But God raised him from the dead Psalm 16:10, Isaiah 55:316:10, Isaiah 55:3

13:38-39 Salvation in Christ declared13:38-39 Salvation in Christ declared

13:44 An amazing reaction, similar to Acts 213:44 An amazing reaction, similar to Acts 2

Acts 13 & 14 Persecution Acts 13 & 14 Persecution

Reaction? Jews are jealous.Reaction? Jews are jealous.

Paul: OK, then I will go to the Gentiles. Paul always Paul: OK, then I will go to the Gentiles. Paul always obeyed Romans 1:16 First to the Jews, then to the obeyed Romans 1:16 First to the Jews, then to the Gentiles.Gentiles.

Acts 14 In Iconium, Lystra and Derbe. The Jews stir Acts 14 In Iconium, Lystra and Derbe. The Jews stir up more trouble. Acts 14:19-20 Paul stoned and left up more trouble. Acts 14:19-20 Paul stoned and left for dead. V. 22 “We must go through many hardships for dead. V. 22 “We must go through many hardships to enter the Kingdom of God.”to enter the Kingdom of God.”

Acts 15 The Council in JerusalemActs 15 The Council in Jerusalem

Judaizers Acts 15:5 Galatians 2:11-13Judaizers Acts 15:5 Galatians 2:11-13

The issue? Should Gentile converts be The issue? Should Gentile converts be required to obey the traditions of the Jews?required to obey the traditions of the Jews?

Should Gentiles be circumcised?Should Gentiles be circumcised?

Note: Paul circumcised Timothy (Acts 16:3) Note: Paul circumcised Timothy (Acts 16:3) but refused to circumcise Titus (Galatians 2:3) but refused to circumcise Titus (Galatians 2:3) Why?Why?

Paul in Athens at the AreopagusPaul in Athens at the Areopagus

Acts 17:18 Epicureans and StoicsActs 17:18 Epicureans and Stoics

Epicureans: Epicurus was an atomist—a follower of Epicureans: Epicurus was an atomist—a follower of Democritus. He taught that God is not interested in Democritus. He taught that God is not interested in human affairs. Deism. The greatest “good” is pleasure human affairs. Deism. The greatest “good” is pleasure or absence of pain. Hedonism.or absence of pain. Hedonism.

Stoicism: Zeno. 3Stoicism: Zeno. 3rdrd century BC. Similar to Buddhism. century BC. Similar to Buddhism. Panentheism. God is in everything. The greatest Panentheism. God is in everything. The greatest “good” is detachment from emotion. The ideal person is “good” is detachment from emotion. The ideal person is the wise sage. The quality of one’s belief is the wise sage. The quality of one’s belief is demonstrated by the style one’s life.demonstrated by the style one’s life.

Areopagus of Athens Acts 17:19

Acropolis in Athens

The Agora in Athens

Acts 17: Paul presents the Christian Acts 17: Paul presents the Christian Worldview to the philosophers of his day.Worldview to the philosophers of his day.

v. 17 He reasoned with them.v. 17 He reasoned with them.

v. 22-23 He found common ground with them,v. 22-23 He found common ground with them,

v. 24-28 Paul describes a better God/better world view.v. 24-28 Paul describes a better God/better world view.

v. 24 God is creator (if true then panentheism/Stoicism is v. 24 God is creator (if true then panentheism/Stoicism is not true)not true)

v. 26-28 God is involved. He is close to us. He intervenes v. 26-28 God is involved. He is close to us. He intervenes in our life. He wants a relationship with us (if true, then in our life. He wants a relationship with us (if true, then epicureanism is not true)epicureanism is not true)

v. 28 He quotes Aratas, a Stoic philosopher. “We are his v. 28 He quotes Aratas, a Stoic philosopher. “We are his offspring.”offspring.”

v. 30-31 He calls them to repent, finally introducing Jesus v. 30-31 He calls them to repent, finally introducing Jesus Christ.Christ.

Acts 23:24

Marcus Antonius Felix was the ancient Roman procurator of the Judaea Province from 52-60 AD. Felix’s cruelty and licentiousness, coupled with his accessibility to bribes, led to a great increase of crime in Judaea.

Pantheon of Athena in the heart of the Acropolis

Theatre at Ephesus Acts 19:29

Chapter 20: Paul’s Third Missionary Journey: Concluded

AD53-58

Chapter 21:35-40 The Location of the Temple and the Barracks (of Fort Antonia) in Jerusalem

Acts 21:35-40 Paul’s Defense on the Temple Stairs

Acts 23:35 Model of Herod’s Palace/Praetorium

Chapter 27-28