Difference between revisions of "Acts of the Apostles"
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| − | [[File:Luke H. Virgin M.jpg|thumb|Saint [[Luke]] is commonly thought to be the author of the Acts of the Apostles. | + | [[File:Luke H. Virgin M.jpg|thumb|Saint [[Luke]] is commonly thought to be the author of the Acts of the Apostles. |
<br /> | <br /> | ||
<br /> | <br /> | ||
St. Luke handing the icon painted by him to the Mother of God]] | St. Luke handing the icon painted by him to the Mother of God]] | ||
| − | '''The Acts of the Apostles''' | + | '''The Acts of the Apostles''' (''Gr: Πράξεις Ἀποστόλων. Practices of the Apostles'') records early [[Christianity]] after [[Jesus|Jesus']] [[Ascension of Christ|ascension]]. [[Luke]] wrote this along with the [[Gospel of Luke]]. |
| + | |||
| + | This book of Acts emphasizes the [[sovereignty of God]], the person and the work of [[Jesus Christ]], the power and role of the [[Holy Spirit]], and the growth of the Church, especially through the addition of the [[Gentile]]s. It highlights how God is actively working through Jesus Christ and the [[Holy Spirit]] to establish [[Kingdom of God|God's kingdom]] and calls Christians to participate in this mission.<ref>[https://biblicalelearning.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Dockery-TheologyActs-CTR.pdf THE THEOLOGY OF ACTS], Criswell Theological Review 5.1 (1990) 43-55</ref><ref>[https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/themelios/article/the-center-of-biblical-theology-in-acts-deliverance-and-damnation-display-t/#:~:text=Howard%20Marshall%20writes%2C%20%E2%80%9CThe%20theological,spread%20of%20the%20message.%E2%80%9D7 The Center of Biblical Theology in Acts: Deliverance and Damnation Display the Divine], Gospel Coalition</ref><ref>[https://enterthebible.org/courses/acts/lessons/theological-themes-in-acts Theological Themes in Acts]</ref><ref>[https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-acts/ The Book of Acts], Bible Project</ref> | ||
==Authorship== | ==Authorship== | ||
| − | This is the work of one author, given the unity of style and its artistic completeness, as such an effect could never arise from the piecing together bits of writings of different authors. The writer writes as an eyewitness and companion of [[Paul]]. The passages 16:10 - 17; 20:5-15; 21:1-18; 27:1; 28:16 are called the "we passages" | + | This is the work of one author, given the unity of style and its artistic completeness, as such an effect could never arise from the piecing together bits of writings of different authors. The writer writes as an eyewitness and companion of [[Paul]]. The passages 16:10 - 17; 20:5-15; 21:1-18; 27:1; 28:16 are called the "we passages." In these the writer employs the first person plural, closely identifying himself with Paul. This excludes the theory that Acts is the work of a redactor. Renan<ref>Ernest Renan, The Acts of the Apostles (Les Ap“tres, 1866), trans. from the French. (New York: Carlton, Madison Square, 1866)</ref> held that such use of the pronoun is "incompatible with any theory of redaction." |
| − | We know from many proofs that [[Luke]] was the companion and fellow-laborer of Paul. Writing to the Colossians, in his salutation Paul associates with himself, "Luke, the beloved physician" (4:14). In II Tim 4:11 Paul declares: "Only Luke is with me" | + | We know from many proofs that [[Luke]] was the companion and fellow-laborer of Paul. Writing to the Colossians, in his salutation Paul associates with himself, "Luke, the beloved physician" (4:14). In II Tim 4:11 Paul declares: "Only Luke is with me." To Philemon (24) Paul calls Luke his fellow-worker. Many suppose the Lucan authorship of the third Gospel as proved. The writer of Acts in his opening sentence implicitly declares himself to be the author of the third Gospel. He addresses his work to [[Theophilus]], the addressee of the third Gospel. The writer also mentions his former work and in substance makes known his intention of continuing the history which, in his former treatise, he had brought up to the day when the Lord Jesus was received up. There is an identity of style between Acts and the third Gospel. An examination of the original Greek texts of the third Gospel and of the Acts reveals that there is in them a remarkable identity of manner of thinking and of writing. There is in both the same tender regard for the [[Gentiles]], the same respect for the [[Roman Empire]], the same treatment of the Jewish rites, the same broad conception that the [[Gospel]] is for all men. In forms of expression the third Gospel and the Acts reveal an identity of authorship. Many of the expressions usual in both works occur rarely in the rest of the [[New Testament]]; other expressions are found nowhere else save in the third Gospel and in the Acts. |
The evidence of the Lucan authorship of Acts is cumulative. The intrinsic evidence is corroborated by the testimonies of many witnesses. It must be granted that in the Apostolic Fathers we find but faint allusions to the Acts of the Apostles. The Fathers of that age wrote but little and time has robbed us of much of what ''was'' written. The Gospels were more prominent in the teachings of that day and they consequently have a more abundant witness. | The evidence of the Lucan authorship of Acts is cumulative. The intrinsic evidence is corroborated by the testimonies of many witnesses. It must be granted that in the Apostolic Fathers we find but faint allusions to the Acts of the Apostles. The Fathers of that age wrote but little and time has robbed us of much of what ''was'' written. The Gospels were more prominent in the teachings of that day and they consequently have a more abundant witness. | ||
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==Prologue== | ==Prologue== | ||
| − | The book opens | + | The book opens, telling of the forty days after the [[Resurrection]] of [[Christ]], during which He appeared to the Apostles, "speaking the things concerning the [[Kingdom of God]]."<ref>Acts 1:3</ref> The promise of the Holy Spirit and the Ascension of Christ are then noted. Peter advises that a successor be chosen in the place of [[Judas Iscariot]], and Matthias is chosen by lot. |
==Pentecost== | ==Pentecost== | ||
| − | On [[Pentecost]] the [[Holy Spirit]] descends on the [[Apostles]], and confers on them the gift of tongues. To the wondering witnesses [[Peter]] explains the great miracle, proving that it is the power of [[Jesus Christ]] that is operating. By that great discourse many were converted to the religion of Christ and were [[baptized]], "and there were added unto them in that day about three thousand souls" | + | On [[Pentecost]] the [[Holy Spirit]] descends on the [[Apostles]], and confers on them the gift of tongues. To the wondering witnesses [[Peter]] explains the great miracle, proving that it is the power of [[Jesus Christ]] that is operating. By that great discourse many were converted to the religion of Christ and were [[baptized]], "and there were added unto them in that day about three thousand souls." This was the beginning of the Judeo-Christian Church. |
| − | Peter and [[John the Apostle|John]] heal a man, lame from birth, at the door of the Temple which is called Beautiful. The people are filled with wonder and amazement at the miracle and run to Peter and John in the "Solomon's" portico. Peter again preaches Jesus Christ, asserting that by faith in the name of Jesus the lame man had been made strong. "And many of them that heard the word believed" | + | Peter and [[John the Apostle|John]] heal a man, lame from birth, at the door of the Temple, which is called Beautiful. The people are filled with wonder and amazement at the miracle and run to Peter and John in the "Solomon's" portico. Peter again preaches Jesus Christ, asserting that by faith in the name of Jesus the lame man had been made strong. "And many of them that heard the word believed," and the number of the men came to be about five thousand. |
==Early church== | ==Early church== | ||
| − | [[Image:Gleyre The Departure of the Apostles.jpg||thumb| | + | [[Image:Gleyre The Departure of the Apostles.jpg||thumb|300px|left|'''''The Departure of the Apostles''<br>by [[Charles Gleyre]] <br>1845''']] |
| − | The fervor of the Christians at that time was very great. They had all things in common. As many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them and delivered the price to the Apostles, and this money was distributed as anyone had need. But a certain Ananias, with Saphira his wife, sold a possession and kept back part of the price, the wife being accessory to the deed. Peter is inspired by the Holy Spirit to know the deception, and rebukes Ananias for the lie to the Holy Spirit. At the rebuke the man falls dead. Saphira, coming up afterwards, and knowing nothing of the death of her husband, is interrogated by Peter regarding the transaction. She also keeps back a part of the price, and | + | The fervor of the Christians at that time was very great. They had all things in common. As many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them and delivered the price to the Apostles, and this money was distributed as anyone had need. But a certain Ananias, with Saphira his wife, sold a possession and kept back part of the price, the wife being accessory to the deed. Peter is inspired by the Holy Spirit to know the deception, and rebukes Ananias for the lie to the Holy Spirit. At the rebuke the man falls dead. Saphira, coming up afterwards, and knowing nothing of the death of her husband, is interrogated by Peter regarding the transaction. She also keeps back a part of the price, and falsely asserts that the full price has been brought to the Apostles. Peter rebukes her and she also falls dead at his words. The multitude saw in the death of Ananias and Saphira God's punishment, and great fear came upon them all. This miracle of God's punishment of [[sin]] also confirmed the faith of those who believed and drew disciples to them. At this stage of the early Church, [[miracle]]s were necessary to attest the truth of their teaching. The power of miracles was abundantly bestowed upon the Apostles. These miracles are not reviewed in detail in Acts, but it is stated: "And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people."<ref>Acts 5:12</ref> Multitudes both of men and women were added to the Christian community. The people of [[Jerusalem]] carried out the sick and laid them on beds and couches in the streets that the shadow of Peter might fall on them. They brought the sick from the cities round about Jerusalem, and everyone was healed. |
| − | The most powerful sect among the Jews at this time | + | The most powerful sect among the Jews at this time was the [[Sadducees]]. They were especially opposed to the Christian religion on account of the doctrine of the resurrection of the dead. <!--So they were "Sad, you see"-->The truth of the Apostles' teaching was: Life Everlasting through Jesus, Who was [[crucified]] for our sins, and Who is risen from the dead. The High-Priest [[Annas]] favored the Sadducees, and his son Ananus, who afterwards became High-Priest, ''was'' a Sadducee.<ref>Josephus, Antiq., XX, viii</ref> This made Annas and Caiphas enemies of the Apostles of Christ. The Acts leaves us in no doubt as to the motive that inspired the High-Priest and the sectaries: "They were filled with jealousy." The religious leaders of the Old Law saw their influence with the people waning before the power which worked in the Apostles of Christ. An angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought the Apostles out, and bade them go and preach in the Temple. The council of the Jews, not finding Peter and John in the prison, and learning of their miraculous deliverance, were much perplexed. On information that they were teaching in the Temple, they sent and took them, but without violence, fearing the people. It was evident throughout that the common people were disposed to follow the Apostles.<br> |
| − | The council | + | The council accused the Apostles that, contrary to its former injunction not to teach in Christ's name, they had filled Jerusalem with Christ's teaching. Peter's defense was that they must obey God rather than men. He then boldly reiterated the doctrine of the Redemption and of the Resurrection. The council was minded to kill the Apostles.<br> |
| − | At this point [[Gamaliel]], a [[Pharisee]], a doctor of the Jewish law, held in honor | + | At this point [[Gamaliel]], a [[Pharisee]], a doctor of the Jewish law, held in honor by all the people, arose in the council in defense of the Apostles. He cites precedents to prove that, if the new teaching be of men, it will be overthrown. But if it be of God, it will be impossible to overthrow. Gamaliel's counsel prevailed, and the council called the Apostles, beat them, and let them go, charging them not to speak in the name of Jesus. But the Apostles departed, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the Name. And every day, in the Temple and privately, they ceased not to teach and to preach Jesus the Christ. |
| − | ==Saul | + | ==Saul/Paul== |
| − | + | ''See also:'' [[Saint Paul|Apostle Paul]] | |
| − | + | [[File:The Conversion of St Paul by Nicolas-Bernard Lepicie, 1767.JPG|thumb|200px|The Conversion of [[St Paul]] by Nicolas-Bernard Lepicie, 1767.]] | |
| − | + | Saul, breathing threats and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, sets out for [[Damascus]] to apprehend any Christians whom he may find there. As he drew near to Damascus, the Lord Jesus spoke to him out of the heavens and converted him. [[Paul]] was baptized by Ananias at Damascus, and straightway for some days abided there, preaching in the [[synagogue]]s that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. He withdrew into Arabia; again returned to Damascus. It was only after three years that he went up to Jerusalem. At Jerusalem Paul was at first distrusted by the disciples of Jesus; but after [[Barnabas]] narrated to them Paul's marvellous conversion, they received Paul, and he preached boldly in the name of Jesus. | |
| − | The rest of Acts narrates the persecution of the Christians by Herod Agrippa; the mission of Paul and Barnabas from Antioch by the Holy Spirit, to preach to the Gentile nations. The labors of Paul and Barnabas in Cyprus and in Asia Minor and their return to Antioch. The journey of Paul and Barnabas to Jerusalem and | + | ==Judea, Samaria and Galilee==Acts then goes on to describe the Church in [[Judea]], [[Samaria]] and [[Galilee]] as "at peace, being builded up, and walking in the fear of the Lord, and by the strength of the Holy Spirit it was multiplied." Peter now goes throughout all parts, comforting the faithful. At Lydda he heals the palsied Aeneas; and at Joppa he raises the pious widow Tabitha (Greek, Dorcas) from the dead. These miracles still more confirm the faith in Jesus Christ. At Joppa Peter has the great vision of the sheet let down from Heaven containing all manner of animals, of which he, being in a trance, is commanded to kill and eat. Peter refuses, on the ground that he cannot eat that which is common and unclean. It is then made known to him by God, that God has cleansed what was before to the Jew unclean. This great vision, revealed three times, was the manifestation of the will of Heaven that the ritual law of the Jews should cease. Henceforth salvation should be offered without distinction to [[Jew]] and [[Goyim|Gentile]]. The meaning of the vision is unfolded to Peter, when he is commanded by an angel to go to Caesarea, to the Gentile centurion Cornelius, whose messengers had even then come to fetch him. He goes, and hears from Cornelius also the centurion's own vision. He preaches to him and to all assembled; the Holy Spirit descends upon them, and Peter commands that they be baptized. Returning to Jerusalem, the Jews contend with Peter that he has gone in to men uncircumcised, and eaten with them. He expounds to them his vision at Joppa, and also the vision of Cornelius, wherein the latter was commanded by an angel to send and fetch Peter from Joppa, that he might receive from Peter the Gospel. The Jews acquiesce, glorifying God, and declaring that "unto the Gentiles also hath God granted repentance unto life." Those who had been scattered abroad from Jerusalem at the time of Stephen's martyrdom had travailed as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch preaching Christ; but they preached to none save the Jews. The calling of the Gentiles was not yet understood by them. But now some converts from Cyprus and Cyrene come up to Antioch, and preach the Gospel to the Gentiles. A great number believe, and turn to the Lord. The report of the work at Antioch comes to the ears of the Church in [[Jerusalem]], which sends Barnabas, "a good man full of the Holy Spirit and of faith," to them. He takes Paul from Tarsus, and they both dwell at Antioch a whole year, and teach many people. The disciples of Christ are called Christians first at Antioch. |
| + | |||
| + | The rest of Acts narrates the persecution of the Christians by Herod Agrippa; the mission of Paul and Barnabas from Antioch by the Holy Spirit, to preach to the Gentile nations. The labors of Paul and Barnabas in Cyprus and in Asia Minor and their return to Antioch are described. The journey of Paul and Barnabas to Jerusalem and the decision of the Apostolic Council of Jerusalem are told. | ||
==Scope== | ==Scope== | ||
| − | In Acts we see the fulfillment of Christ's promises. In Acts | + | [[File:Jesus ascending to heaven.jpg|thumbnail|right|300px|Painting: The [[Ascension of Christ|Ascension]] by John Singleton Copley, 1775]] |
| − | The book has a systematic order of narration, an exactness and fullness of detail. After the calling of the first twelve [[Apostles]], there is no event in the history of the church so important as Paul's conversion and commission to teach in Christ's name. Up to Paul's conversion, the inspired historian of the Acts has given us a condensed statement of the growth of the Church among the Jews. Peter and John are important in the work. But the great message is now to issue forth from the confines of Judaism: | + | In Acts we see the fulfillment of Christ's promises. In Acts 1:8, Jesus had declared that the Apostles should receive power when the Holy Spirit came upon them and that they should be His witnesses both in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and unto the uttermost parts of the earth. In John 14:12, Jesus had declared: "He that believeth in me, the works that I do, he also shall do, and greater works than these shall he do. Because I go to the Father." In these passages is found the keynote of the origin of the church. The church developed according to Christ's plan. There is in the narration evidence of the working out of a great plan. This is the reason the writer records the working-out of the great design of Christ, conceived in infinite wisdom and executed by omnipotent power.<br> |
| − | + | The book has a systematic order of narration, an exactness and fullness of detail. After the calling of the first twelve [[Apostles]], there is no event in the history of the church so important as Paul's conversion and commission to teach in Christ's name. Up to Paul's conversion, the inspired historian of the Acts has given us a condensed statement of the growth of the Church among the Jews. Peter and John are important in the work. But the great message is now to issue forth from the confines of Judaism: all flesh is to see the salvation of God. Paul is to be the great instrument in preaching Christ to the Gentiles. In the development of the Christian church, Paul wrought more than all the other Apostles. His appointment as the Apostle of the Gentiles does not prevent him from preaching to the Jews, but his richest fruits are gathered from the Gentiles. | |
| − | |||
The nature of the history recorded in Acts suggests a division into two parts: | The nature of the history recorded in Acts suggests a division into two parts: | ||
*The beginning and propagation of the Christian religion among the Jews (1-9). [[Saint Peter|Peter]] plays the chief role in the first part. | *The beginning and propagation of the Christian religion among the Jews (1-9). [[Saint Peter|Peter]] plays the chief role in the first part. | ||
| − | *The beginning and propagation of the Christian religion among the Gentiles (10-28). | + | *The beginning and propagation of the Christian religion among the Gentiles (10-28). [[Paul]] is the main focus in the second part. |
| − | The Acts of the Apostles is an integral part in a well-ordered series. Acts assumes its readers know the Gospels and | + | The Acts of the Apostles is an integral part in a well-ordered series. Acts assumes its readers know the Gospels and itself continues the Gospel narrative. The Four Evangelists close with the account of the Resurrection and Ascension of Jesus Christ. |
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| + | Acts takes up the narrative here and records events which were evidence of the working of the Holy Spirit, through chosen humans. It is a condensed record of the fulfillment of the promises of Jesus Christ. The Evangelists record Christ's promises which He made to the disciples; | ||
| + | *regarding the establishment of the Church and its mission<ref>Matthew 16:15-20</ref> | ||
| + | *the gift of the Holy Spirit<ref>Luke 24:49; John 14:16, 17</ref> | ||
| + | *the calling of the Gentiles<ref>Matthew 28:18-20; Luke 24:46, 47</ref> | ||
==Agency of the Holy Spirit== | ==Agency of the Holy Spirit== | ||
| + | ''See also:'' [[Holy Spirit]] | ||
| + | |||
| + | [[File:Dove blue background.jpg|thumbnail|350px|right|In the Bible, a dove is often a symbol of the [[Holy Spirit]].<ref>[https://www.christianity.com/wiki/holy-spirit/why-is-the-dove-often-a-symbol-for-the-holy-spirit.html Why Is the Dove Often a Symbol for the Holy Spirit?], Christianity.com</ref>]] | ||
Being an integral part in a well-ordered series, Acts "assumes" its readers know the [[Gospel]]s and itself continues the Gospel narrative. The Four Evangelists close with the account of the Resurrection and Ascension of Jesus Christ. <br> | Being an integral part in a well-ordered series, Acts "assumes" its readers know the [[Gospel]]s and itself continues the Gospel narrative. The Four Evangelists close with the account of the Resurrection and Ascension of Jesus Christ. <br> | ||
| − | Acts | + | Acts takes up the narrative here and records events which were evidence of the working of the [[Holy Spirit]], through chosen humans. It is a condensed record of the fulfillment of the promises of Jesus Christ. The Evangelists record Christ's promises which He made to the disciples; |
| − | *regarding the establishment of the Church and its mission <ref>Matthew 16:15-20</ref> | + | *regarding the establishment of the Church and its mission<ref>Matthew 16:15-20</ref> |
| − | *the gift of the Holy Spirit <ref>Luke 24:49; John 14:16, 17</ref> | + | *the gift of the Holy Spirit<ref>Luke 24:49; John 14:16, 17</ref> |
| − | *the calling of the | + | *the calling of the Gentiles<ref>Matthew 28:18-20; Luke 24:46, 47</ref> |
Acts records the fulfillments. The history begins at Jerusalem and ends at Rome. With divine simplicity Acts shows us the growth of the religion of Christ among the nations. The distinction between Jew and Gentile is abolished by the revelation to Peter. | Acts records the fulfillments. The history begins at Jerusalem and ends at Rome. With divine simplicity Acts shows us the growth of the religion of Christ among the nations. The distinction between Jew and Gentile is abolished by the revelation to Peter. | ||
| − | Paul is called to devote himself specially to the Gentile ministry | + | Paul is called to devote himself specially to the Gentile ministry; the Holy Spirit works signs in confirmation of the doctrines of Christ. Though men suffer and die, the church grows and thus the whole world sees the Salvation of God. <br> |
| − | Nowhere in the [[Bible]] is the action of the | + | Nowhere in the [[Bible]] is the action of the Holy Spirit in the church so forcibly set forth as in the Acts: |
| − | *He fills the Apostles with knowledge and power on Pentecost | + | *He fills the Apostles with knowledge and power on Pentecost. |
| − | * | + | *They speak as the Holy Spirit gave them to speak. |
| − | * | + | *The Holy Spirit bids Philip the deacon go to the eunuch of Candace. |
| − | * | + | *The same Spirit catches up Philip, after the baptism of the eunuch, and brings him to Azotus. |
| − | * | + | *The Holy Spirit tells Peter to go to Cornelius. |
| − | * | + | *When Peter preaches to Cornelius and his family the Holy Spirit falls on them all. |
| − | * | + | *The Holy Spirit directly commands that Paul and Barnabas be set apart for the Gentile ministry. |
| − | * | + | *The Holy Spirit forbids Paul and Silas to preach in Asia. |
| − | * | + | *Constantly, by the laying on of the Apostles' hands, the Holy Spirit comes upon the faithful. |
| − | *Paul is directed by the Holy Spirit in everything | + | *Paul is directed by the Holy Spirit in everything. |
| − | * | + | *The Holy Spirit foretells Paul that bonds and afflictions await him in every city. |
==See also== | ==See also== | ||
| Line 83: | Line 89: | ||
[[Council of Jerusalem]] | [[Council of Jerusalem]] | ||
| + | |||
| + | == External links == | ||
| + | |||
| + | *[https://www.bibleref.com/Acts/index.html Survey of Acts], Bibleref.com | ||
| + | *[https://bibleproject.com/guides/book-of-acts/ Guide to the Book of Acts], BibleProject.com | ||
| + | *[https://www.crossway.org/articles/10-things-you-should-know-about-the-book-of-acts/ 10 Things You Should Know about the Book of Acts], Crossway.org | ||
| + | *[https://grok.com/share/c2hhcmQtNA_a01507c2-6c10-4e3f-a38c-da7de7e9b119 Book of Acts: A Theological Conservative Perspective] | ||
| + | *[https://grok.com/share/c2hhcmQtNA_ae7dd19a-e7f0-4dcb-979c-c800824f5e50 Book of Acts: A Theological Conservative Perspective (Conservative Catholicism, conservative Protestantism and Eastern Orthodox agree on)] | ||
| + | |||
| + | '''Videos:''' | ||
| + | |||
| + | *[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CGbNw855ksw&list=PLbjmSS6LZDGp80l-lCpsHI5bxSg7cHCi1 Book of Acts - video playlist], video playlist | ||
| + | |||
| + | '''Movie:''' | ||
| + | |||
| + | *[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q5bTIUrUw0M Book of Acts], Visual Bible | ||
==References== | ==References== | ||
Latest revision as of 22:24, September 30, 2026
St. Luke handing the icon painted by him to the Mother of God
The Acts of the Apostles (Gr: Πράξεις Ἀποστόλων. Practices of the Apostles) records early Christianity after Jesus' ascension. Luke wrote this along with the Gospel of Luke.
This book of Acts emphasizes the sovereignty of God, the person and the work of Jesus Christ, the power and role of the Holy Spirit, and the growth of the Church, especially through the addition of the Gentiles. It highlights how God is actively working through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit to establish God's kingdom and calls Christians to participate in this mission.[1][2][3][4]
Authorship
This is the work of one author, given the unity of style and its artistic completeness, as such an effect could never arise from the piecing together bits of writings of different authors. The writer writes as an eyewitness and companion of Paul. The passages 16:10 - 17; 20:5-15; 21:1-18; 27:1; 28:16 are called the "we passages." In these the writer employs the first person plural, closely identifying himself with Paul. This excludes the theory that Acts is the work of a redactor. Renan[5] held that such use of the pronoun is "incompatible with any theory of redaction."
We know from many proofs that Luke was the companion and fellow-laborer of Paul. Writing to the Colossians, in his salutation Paul associates with himself, "Luke, the beloved physician" (4:14). In II Tim 4:11 Paul declares: "Only Luke is with me." To Philemon (24) Paul calls Luke his fellow-worker. Many suppose the Lucan authorship of the third Gospel as proved. The writer of Acts in his opening sentence implicitly declares himself to be the author of the third Gospel. He addresses his work to Theophilus, the addressee of the third Gospel. The writer also mentions his former work and in substance makes known his intention of continuing the history which, in his former treatise, he had brought up to the day when the Lord Jesus was received up. There is an identity of style between Acts and the third Gospel. An examination of the original Greek texts of the third Gospel and of the Acts reveals that there is in them a remarkable identity of manner of thinking and of writing. There is in both the same tender regard for the Gentiles, the same respect for the Roman Empire, the same treatment of the Jewish rites, the same broad conception that the Gospel is for all men. In forms of expression the third Gospel and the Acts reveal an identity of authorship. Many of the expressions usual in both works occur rarely in the rest of the New Testament; other expressions are found nowhere else save in the third Gospel and in the Acts.
The evidence of the Lucan authorship of Acts is cumulative. The intrinsic evidence is corroborated by the testimonies of many witnesses. It must be granted that in the Apostolic Fathers we find but faint allusions to the Acts of the Apostles. The Fathers of that age wrote but little and time has robbed us of much of what was written. The Gospels were more prominent in the teachings of that day and they consequently have a more abundant witness.
Prologue
The book opens, telling of the forty days after the Resurrection of Christ, during which He appeared to the Apostles, "speaking the things concerning the Kingdom of God."[6] The promise of the Holy Spirit and the Ascension of Christ are then noted. Peter advises that a successor be chosen in the place of Judas Iscariot, and Matthias is chosen by lot.
Pentecost
On Pentecost the Holy Spirit descends on the Apostles, and confers on them the gift of tongues. To the wondering witnesses Peter explains the great miracle, proving that it is the power of Jesus Christ that is operating. By that great discourse many were converted to the religion of Christ and were baptized, "and there were added unto them in that day about three thousand souls." This was the beginning of the Judeo-Christian Church.
Peter and John heal a man, lame from birth, at the door of the Temple, which is called Beautiful. The people are filled with wonder and amazement at the miracle and run to Peter and John in the "Solomon's" portico. Peter again preaches Jesus Christ, asserting that by faith in the name of Jesus the lame man had been made strong. "And many of them that heard the word believed," and the number of the men came to be about five thousand.
Early church
The fervor of the Christians at that time was very great. They had all things in common. As many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them and delivered the price to the Apostles, and this money was distributed as anyone had need. But a certain Ananias, with Saphira his wife, sold a possession and kept back part of the price, the wife being accessory to the deed. Peter is inspired by the Holy Spirit to know the deception, and rebukes Ananias for the lie to the Holy Spirit. At the rebuke the man falls dead. Saphira, coming up afterwards, and knowing nothing of the death of her husband, is interrogated by Peter regarding the transaction. She also keeps back a part of the price, and falsely asserts that the full price has been brought to the Apostles. Peter rebukes her and she also falls dead at his words. The multitude saw in the death of Ananias and Saphira God's punishment, and great fear came upon them all. This miracle of God's punishment of sin also confirmed the faith of those who believed and drew disciples to them. At this stage of the early Church, miracles were necessary to attest the truth of their teaching. The power of miracles was abundantly bestowed upon the Apostles. These miracles are not reviewed in detail in Acts, but it is stated: "And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people."[7] Multitudes both of men and women were added to the Christian community. The people of Jerusalem carried out the sick and laid them on beds and couches in the streets that the shadow of Peter might fall on them. They brought the sick from the cities round about Jerusalem, and everyone was healed.
The most powerful sect among the Jews at this time was the Sadducees. They were especially opposed to the Christian religion on account of the doctrine of the resurrection of the dead. The truth of the Apostles' teaching was: Life Everlasting through Jesus, Who was crucified for our sins, and Who is risen from the dead. The High-Priest Annas favored the Sadducees, and his son Ananus, who afterwards became High-Priest, was a Sadducee.[8] This made Annas and Caiphas enemies of the Apostles of Christ. The Acts leaves us in no doubt as to the motive that inspired the High-Priest and the sectaries: "They were filled with jealousy." The religious leaders of the Old Law saw their influence with the people waning before the power which worked in the Apostles of Christ. An angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought the Apostles out, and bade them go and preach in the Temple. The council of the Jews, not finding Peter and John in the prison, and learning of their miraculous deliverance, were much perplexed. On information that they were teaching in the Temple, they sent and took them, but without violence, fearing the people. It was evident throughout that the common people were disposed to follow the Apostles.
The council accused the Apostles that, contrary to its former injunction not to teach in Christ's name, they had filled Jerusalem with Christ's teaching. Peter's defense was that they must obey God rather than men. He then boldly reiterated the doctrine of the Redemption and of the Resurrection. The council was minded to kill the Apostles.
At this point Gamaliel, a Pharisee, a doctor of the Jewish law, held in honor by all the people, arose in the council in defense of the Apostles. He cites precedents to prove that, if the new teaching be of men, it will be overthrown. But if it be of God, it will be impossible to overthrow. Gamaliel's counsel prevailed, and the council called the Apostles, beat them, and let them go, charging them not to speak in the name of Jesus. But the Apostles departed, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the Name. And every day, in the Temple and privately, they ceased not to teach and to preach Jesus the Christ.
Saul/Paul
See also: Apostle Paul
Saul, breathing threats and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, sets out for Damascus to apprehend any Christians whom he may find there. As he drew near to Damascus, the Lord Jesus spoke to him out of the heavens and converted him. Paul was baptized by Ananias at Damascus, and straightway for some days abided there, preaching in the synagogues that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. He withdrew into Arabia; again returned to Damascus. It was only after three years that he went up to Jerusalem. At Jerusalem Paul was at first distrusted by the disciples of Jesus; but after Barnabas narrated to them Paul's marvellous conversion, they received Paul, and he preached boldly in the name of Jesus.
==Judea, Samaria and Galilee==Acts then goes on to describe the Church in Judea, Samaria and Galilee as "at peace, being builded up, and walking in the fear of the Lord, and by the strength of the Holy Spirit it was multiplied." Peter now goes throughout all parts, comforting the faithful. At Lydda he heals the palsied Aeneas; and at Joppa he raises the pious widow Tabitha (Greek, Dorcas) from the dead. These miracles still more confirm the faith in Jesus Christ. At Joppa Peter has the great vision of the sheet let down from Heaven containing all manner of animals, of which he, being in a trance, is commanded to kill and eat. Peter refuses, on the ground that he cannot eat that which is common and unclean. It is then made known to him by God, that God has cleansed what was before to the Jew unclean. This great vision, revealed three times, was the manifestation of the will of Heaven that the ritual law of the Jews should cease. Henceforth salvation should be offered without distinction to Jew and Gentile. The meaning of the vision is unfolded to Peter, when he is commanded by an angel to go to Caesarea, to the Gentile centurion Cornelius, whose messengers had even then come to fetch him. He goes, and hears from Cornelius also the centurion's own vision. He preaches to him and to all assembled; the Holy Spirit descends upon them, and Peter commands that they be baptized. Returning to Jerusalem, the Jews contend with Peter that he has gone in to men uncircumcised, and eaten with them. He expounds to them his vision at Joppa, and also the vision of Cornelius, wherein the latter was commanded by an angel to send and fetch Peter from Joppa, that he might receive from Peter the Gospel. The Jews acquiesce, glorifying God, and declaring that "unto the Gentiles also hath God granted repentance unto life." Those who had been scattered abroad from Jerusalem at the time of Stephen's martyrdom had travailed as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch preaching Christ; but they preached to none save the Jews. The calling of the Gentiles was not yet understood by them. But now some converts from Cyprus and Cyrene come up to Antioch, and preach the Gospel to the Gentiles. A great number believe, and turn to the Lord. The report of the work at Antioch comes to the ears of the Church in Jerusalem, which sends Barnabas, "a good man full of the Holy Spirit and of faith," to them. He takes Paul from Tarsus, and they both dwell at Antioch a whole year, and teach many people. The disciples of Christ are called Christians first at Antioch.
The rest of Acts narrates the persecution of the Christians by Herod Agrippa; the mission of Paul and Barnabas from Antioch by the Holy Spirit, to preach to the Gentile nations. The labors of Paul and Barnabas in Cyprus and in Asia Minor and their return to Antioch are described. The journey of Paul and Barnabas to Jerusalem and the decision of the Apostolic Council of Jerusalem are told.
Scope
In Acts we see the fulfillment of Christ's promises. In Acts 1:8, Jesus had declared that the Apostles should receive power when the Holy Spirit came upon them and that they should be His witnesses both in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and unto the uttermost parts of the earth. In John 14:12, Jesus had declared: "He that believeth in me, the works that I do, he also shall do, and greater works than these shall he do. Because I go to the Father." In these passages is found the keynote of the origin of the church. The church developed according to Christ's plan. There is in the narration evidence of the working out of a great plan. This is the reason the writer records the working-out of the great design of Christ, conceived in infinite wisdom and executed by omnipotent power.
The book has a systematic order of narration, an exactness and fullness of detail. After the calling of the first twelve Apostles, there is no event in the history of the church so important as Paul's conversion and commission to teach in Christ's name. Up to Paul's conversion, the inspired historian of the Acts has given us a condensed statement of the growth of the Church among the Jews. Peter and John are important in the work. But the great message is now to issue forth from the confines of Judaism: all flesh is to see the salvation of God. Paul is to be the great instrument in preaching Christ to the Gentiles. In the development of the Christian church, Paul wrought more than all the other Apostles. His appointment as the Apostle of the Gentiles does not prevent him from preaching to the Jews, but his richest fruits are gathered from the Gentiles.
The nature of the history recorded in Acts suggests a division into two parts:
- The beginning and propagation of the Christian religion among the Jews (1-9). Peter plays the chief role in the first part.
- The beginning and propagation of the Christian religion among the Gentiles (10-28). Paul is the main focus in the second part.
The Acts of the Apostles is an integral part in a well-ordered series. Acts assumes its readers know the Gospels and itself continues the Gospel narrative. The Four Evangelists close with the account of the Resurrection and Ascension of Jesus Christ.
Acts takes up the narrative here and records events which were evidence of the working of the Holy Spirit, through chosen humans. It is a condensed record of the fulfillment of the promises of Jesus Christ. The Evangelists record Christ's promises which He made to the disciples;
- regarding the establishment of the Church and its mission[9]
- the gift of the Holy Spirit[10]
- the calling of the Gentiles[11]
Agency of the Holy Spirit
See also: Holy Spirit
Being an integral part in a well-ordered series, Acts "assumes" its readers know the Gospels and itself continues the Gospel narrative. The Four Evangelists close with the account of the Resurrection and Ascension of Jesus Christ.
Acts takes up the narrative here and records events which were evidence of the working of the Holy Spirit, through chosen humans. It is a condensed record of the fulfillment of the promises of Jesus Christ. The Evangelists record Christ's promises which He made to the disciples;
- regarding the establishment of the Church and its mission[13]
- the gift of the Holy Spirit[14]
- the calling of the Gentiles[15]
Acts records the fulfillments. The history begins at Jerusalem and ends at Rome. With divine simplicity Acts shows us the growth of the religion of Christ among the nations. The distinction between Jew and Gentile is abolished by the revelation to Peter.
Paul is called to devote himself specially to the Gentile ministry; the Holy Spirit works signs in confirmation of the doctrines of Christ. Though men suffer and die, the church grows and thus the whole world sees the Salvation of God.
Nowhere in the Bible is the action of the Holy Spirit in the church so forcibly set forth as in the Acts:
- He fills the Apostles with knowledge and power on Pentecost.
- They speak as the Holy Spirit gave them to speak.
- The Holy Spirit bids Philip the deacon go to the eunuch of Candace.
- The same Spirit catches up Philip, after the baptism of the eunuch, and brings him to Azotus.
- The Holy Spirit tells Peter to go to Cornelius.
- When Peter preaches to Cornelius and his family the Holy Spirit falls on them all.
- The Holy Spirit directly commands that Paul and Barnabas be set apart for the Gentile ministry.
- The Holy Spirit forbids Paul and Silas to preach in Asia.
- Constantly, by the laying on of the Apostles' hands, the Holy Spirit comes upon the faithful.
- Paul is directed by the Holy Spirit in everything.
- The Holy Spirit foretells Paul that bonds and afflictions await him in every city.
See also
Acts of the Apostles (Translated)
External links
- Survey of Acts, Bibleref.com
- Guide to the Book of Acts, BibleProject.com
- 10 Things You Should Know about the Book of Acts, Crossway.org
- Book of Acts: A Theological Conservative Perspective
- Book of Acts: A Theological Conservative Perspective (Conservative Catholicism, conservative Protestantism and Eastern Orthodox agree on)
Videos:
- Book of Acts - video playlist, video playlist
Movie:
- Book of Acts, Visual Bible
References
- ↑ THE THEOLOGY OF ACTS, Criswell Theological Review 5.1 (1990) 43-55
- ↑ The Center of Biblical Theology in Acts: Deliverance and Damnation Display the Divine, Gospel Coalition
- ↑ Theological Themes in Acts
- ↑ The Book of Acts, Bible Project
- ↑ Ernest Renan, The Acts of the Apostles (Les Ap“tres, 1866), trans. from the French. (New York: Carlton, Madison Square, 1866)
- ↑ Acts 1:3
- ↑ Acts 5:12
- ↑ Josephus, Antiq., XX, viii
- ↑ Matthew 16:15-20
- ↑ Luke 24:49; John 14:16, 17
- ↑ Matthew 28:18-20; Luke 24:46, 47
- ↑ Why Is the Dove Often a Symbol for the Holy Spirit?, Christianity.com
- ↑ Matthew 16:15-20
- ↑ Luke 24:49; John 14:16, 17
- ↑ Matthew 28:18-20; Luke 24:46, 47