Acts The Churchs First History Book Broad Outline

Acts The Church’s First History Book

Broad Outline of Acts (Chapter 1 -12) Primarily Peter in Judea and Samaria (Chapter 13 -28) Primarily Paul in the uttermost parts of the earth

Preliminary Question When we read what the apostles and early Christians did, does that mean we (in the 21 st century) must copy them?

Acts 1 Outline: (1: 1 -5) Introduction and Prediction of Jesus’ Ascension (1: 6 -11) The Ascension Inaugurated (1: 12 -14) The Apostles Regroup (1: 15 -20) Peter Leads Discussion of New Apostle (1: 21 -26) Matthias is Selected

Theophilus “Theophilus” – In Greek, his name means “lover of God, ” and some have suggested that Luke is writing to a generic Christian. But the contexts of Luke and Acts don’t seem to fit. Acts, then, is best understood as the sequel to the Gospel of Luke 1: 3 -4 – “It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus, That thou mightest know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast been instructed. ”

Jesus’ Appearances Total time = 40 days “Many infallible [irrefutable] proofs” What does say for our apologetics?

Baptism with Water & the H. S. Mark 1: 8 [John the Baptist is speaking] “I have baptized you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit. ” What is “Spirit baptism? ”

Acts 1 Outline: (1: 1 -5) Introduction and Prediction of Jesus’ Ascension (1: 6 -11) The Ascension Inaugurated (1: 12 -14) The Apostles Regroup (1: 15 -20) Peter Leads Discussion of New Apostle (1: 21 -26) Matthias is Selected

The Kingdom of God This was Jesus’ post-resurrection message (Acts 1: 3) What is the “Kingdom of God”?

The Kingdom of God This was Jesus’ post-resurrection message (Acts 1: 3) What is the “Kingdom of God”? NOT the broad term for God’s universal reign (Psalm 47: 8) in this context It is the promised Messianic kingdom where Jesus will reign as king of Israel over all the nations (2 Samuel 7; Rev. 20)

Great Commission

Missions Jerusalem Judea-Samaria Uttermost Parts of the Earth Is this a pattern for how to do missions? (example: Blue Ridge – Roanoke and Botetourt County – Virginia/USA/World)

Acts 1 Outline: (1: 1 -5) Introduction and Prediction of Jesus’ Ascension (1: 6 -11) The Ascension Inaugurated (1: 12 -14) The Apostles Regroup (1: 15 -20) Peter Leads Discussion of New Apostle (1: 21 -26) Matthias is Selected

Mt. Olivet [Mount of Olives] This was the same mountain that Jesus gave His prophecies about the end times (Matthew 24 -25).

The Upper Room [vs. 14] “with one accord” = literally “with one mind” “with the women” = women could be translated “wives” (the apostles weren’t the only people ministering in the early church!)

Acts 1 Outline: (1: 1 -5) Introduction and Prediction of Jesus’ Ascension (1: 6 -11) The Ascension Inaugurated (1: 12 -14) The Apostles Regroup (1: 15 -20) Peter Leads Discussion of New Apostle (1: 21 -26) Matthias is Selected

Replacing Judas “bishoprick” = the word, episkope (used elsewhere in the NT for the office of bishop/pastor) Authority for Peter’s decision (why not just go on with 11 apostles? ) Number of disciples = about 120 [vs. 15]

Acts 1 Outline: (1: 1 -5) Introduction and Prediction of Jesus’ Ascension (1: 6 -11) The Ascension Inaugurated (1: 12 -14) The Apostles Regroup (1: 15 -20) Peter Leads Discussion of New Apostle (1: 21 -26) Matthias is Selected

The Tough Decision Joseph or Matthias? Both were “appointed, ” but only one would be chosen. Casting lots = why this method? Can it be used today? Should it be used today? [see Prov. 16: 33, 18: 18] Joseph may not have been chosen to replace Judas, but he would go on to an important ministry (Acts 15: 22). This later time, he would be chosen specifically by the Christian leaders.

Acts 2 Outline: (2: 1 -4) The Spirit’s Descent at Pentecost (2: 5 -13) The Audience at Pentecost (2: 14 -21) Peter’s Sermon: Hearkenings from Joel (2: 22 -28) Peter’s Sermon: Fulfillments of Jesus (2: 29 -36) Peter’s Sermon: David and the Lordship of Jesus (2: 37 -41) Peter’s Invitation of Repentance (2: 42 -47) The Example of the Early Believers

Lost in Translation? ¿dónde está el baño?

Pentecost “Pentecost” = Greek word for “fifty. ” This number references the fifty days that elapsed since Passover, and it corresponds to the Old Testament festival called the “Feast of Weeks” (Lev. 23: 15; Deut. 16: 9). “they were all together” = They (the Jews) were gathered for the Feast of Weeks.

Imagery of Pentecost [vs. 4] “And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each of them. ” “as” = like (simile)

Filling of the Holy Spirit “And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. ” The Spirit’s “Filling” Operates in Different Ways: 1) “coming and going” (Samson, Judges 16: 20; David, Psalm 51: 11) for spectacular purposes 2) Different from the indwelling of the Spirit (Rom. 8: 9) 3) Filling for being “controlled”/under the influence of the Spirit (Eph. 5: 18)

Tongues Speaking in Tongues: “tongues” = Greek, glossais (multiple languages) NOT ecstatic utterances (habalaba shamao anadaba…) “gave them utterance” = reference to “elevated discourse” rather than general speech The miracle = speech or of hearing? Both? (see the following verses)

Acts 2 Outline: (2: 1 -4) The Spirit’s Descent at Pentecost (2: 5 -13) The Audience at Pentecost (2: 14 -21) Peter’s Sermon: Hearkenings from Joel (2: 22 -28) Peter’s Sermon: Fulfillments of Jesus (2: 29 -36) Peter’s Sermon: David and the Lordship of Jesus (2: 37 -41) Peter’s Invitation of Repentance (2: 42 -47) The Example of the Early Believers

The Audience at Pentecost The People = Jews (to gather for the Feast of Weeks) The “Dialects” = The Jews who spoke in tongues/languages were speaking the dialektos (Greek) of the all of these Jews who had many different languages or “dialects. ” Aramaic, Parthian, Iranian, Hebrew, Phrygian, Pisidian, Lydian, Carian, Lycian, Celtic, Lycaonian, Coptic, Latin, Numidian, Greek, Nabatean (Clinton Arnold, Zondervan Illustrated Backgrounds Commentary) The Accusation = Drunkenness (vs. 13)

Tongues = Sign of Judgment? Isaiah 28: 11 -12 (quoted in 1 Cor. 14) “For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people. To whom he said, This is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing: yet they would not hear. ” (Reminder) The audience = Jews (Side Note) Paul did not mandate the speaking of tongues (1 Cor. 12: 30)

Acts 2 Outline: (2: 1 -4) The Spirit’s Descent at Pentecost (2: 5 -13) The Audience at Pentecost (2: 14 -21) Peter’s Sermon: Hearkenings from Joel (2: 22 -28) Peter’s Sermon: Fulfillments of Jesus (2: 29 -36) Peter’s Sermon: David and the Lordship of Jesus (2: 37 -41) Peter’s Invitation of Repentance (2: 42 -47) The Example of the Early Believers

Group Study Group 1: (2: 14 -21) Peter’s Sermon: Hearkenings from Joel Group 2: (2: 22 -28) Peter’s Sermon: Fulfillments of Jesus Group 3: (2: 29 -36) Peter’s Sermon: David and the Lordship of Jesus Objectives: Summarize your passage Highlight a point or two that stuck out to you

Acts 2 Outline: (2: 1 -4) The Spirit’s Descent at Pentecost (2: 5 -13) The Audience at Pentecost (2: 14 -21) Peter’s Sermon: Hearkenings from Joel (2: 22 -28) Peter’s Sermon: Fulfillments of Jesus (2: 29 -36) Peter’s Sermon: David and the Lordship of Jesus (2: 37 -41) Peter’s Invitation of Repentance (2: 42 -47) The Example of the Early Believers

The Reaction [2: 37] “Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? ” Pricked = “pierced” (something that causes great emotional trouble) What shall we do? = their response was not coerced by human instigation

The Invitation Repent (command) Be baptized (command) Literally means “change your mind” What were they changing their minds from…toward…? [NET Bible Notes] “If you saw a poster saying ‘Jesse James wanted for robbery, ’ ‘for’ could mean Jesse is wanted so he can commit a robbery, or is wanted because he has committed a robbery. The later sense is the correct one. So too in this passage, the word ‘for’ signifies an action in the past. Otherwise, it would violate the entire tenor of the NT teaching on salvation by grace and not by works. ” Also, is someone “believes the gospel, ” but refuses baptism, it shows that he/she may not have repented. You will receive…the Holy Spirit (NOT a command; indicates what will happen)

The Gospel’s Reach Three Types People: You (Jews at Pentecost) Your Children (Proceeding generations from the group of Jews) All Who Are Far Off (Gentiles…this foreshadows the gospel going to the Gentiles, particularly through the Apostle Paul) “Crooked generation” (OT phrasing; Psalm 78: 8)— specifically, that generation rejected the Messiah. 3, 000 were saved (added to the 120)

Acts 2 Outline: (2: 1 -4) The Spirit’s Descent at Pentecost (2: 5 -13) The Audience at Pentecost (2: 14 -21) Peter’s Sermon: Hearkenings from Joel (2: 22 -28) Peter’s Sermon: Fulfillments of Jesus (2: 29 -36) Peter’s Sermon: David and the Lordship of Jesus (2: 37 -41) Peter’s Invitation of Repentance (2: 42 -47) The Example of the Early Believers

What the Early Church “Did” [2: 42] “And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. ” Doctrine = teaching (from the apostles’ authority) Fellowship = from koinonia (“close relationship”) Breaking of bread = could refer to the “Lord’s Supper, ” or even more broadly to sharing full meals Prayers = in the book of Acts, prayer becomes a critical part of ministry to thrive Is this an ideal “ingredient list” for churches to follow today?

These are NOT fake internet memes

Communist Christians? ? [2: 44 -45] “And all that believed were together, and had all things common; And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. ” When individuals had needs, Christians voluntarily sold items to help those in need. Consider also how many Christians were disowned/persecuted when they converted (causing many to be socially and financially ruined). Jerusalem had unusually poor churches; Paul frequently talked about talking alms for them (1 Cor. 16: 3, Rom. 15: 25 -27)

Joyful Christians [2: 46 -47] “And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved. ” Favor = from God and “all the people” “such as should be saved” (KJV) = those who were being saved.

Acts 3 Outline: (3: 1 -10) Peter Heals a Lame Man (3: 11 -16) Peter’s Sermon: Rebuking Fellow Israelites (3: 17 -26) Peter’s Sermon: Inviting Fellow Israelites

The Context “at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour. ” The “first” hour is sunrise (about 6 a. m. ), making the ninth hour around 3 p. m. It was typical for the ninth hour to be accompanied with an evening sacrifice at the temple. A lot of devout Jews would attend these events.

The Lame Man Lame man “from his mother’s womb” (since birth) The “Beautiful” Gate (probably the Gate of Nicanor [Corinthian Gate])

Peter & John “Peter and John [were] about to go into the temple. ” They probably weren’t going to the temple to perform a miracle; probably, they just wanted to fulfill a religious duty in Judaism. Peter doesn’t have “silver or gold” (currency for alms-giving) Contemporary application: Should Christians just support evangelistic efforts? Some humanitarian aid? And when should we give to the person on the street corner?

The Healing “feet and ankle bones” Luke was a physician, and the Greek word he uses here for “ankle bones” appears only in this verse in the NT. This shows that Luke investigated the physical healing of the man. “walking…leaping…praising God” Perhaps even more miraculous is that the lame man was not only healed, but also that he knew how to walk (even leap) after being lame since birth. “praising God” = He recognized the source of Peter’s power

Solomon’s Porch Location for Peter’s sermon (where people were marveling over what they saw)

Acts 3 Outline: (3: 1 -10) Peter Heals a Lame Man (3: 11 -16) Peter’s Sermon: Rebuking Fellow Israelites (3: 17 -26) Peter’s Sermon: Inviting Fellow Israelites

Peter’s Opening Question The Crowd: “Men of Israel” (Greek: Andres, not Anthropos) Why are you “marveling” at this? Assumption: “power” (or authority; same word as Matthew 28’s Great Commission passage) or “holiness”

Connection to Jesus God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Accusation: (1) you delivered [handed over] (2) you denied Him in the presence of Pilate’s Desire: “he was determined to let him go” [vs. 13] Why does Peter highlight this point?

The Exchange Denied/Desired = Denied the “Holy and Just One”; desired a (literally) “man of murder” to be “granted” (or “gifted, ” karisthenai) to you. Killed the “prince” of life = Also translated, “You killed the founder/originator of life. ” [same word in Heb. 12: 2, “author and finisher of our faith”] Ironically, God raised Him from the dead (reversing their actions). Connection to the lame man = [vs. 16] And “on the basis” of faith in His Name, this man was healed (given “perfect soundness, ” or wholeness). Why is the action done in His Name important?

Acts 3 Outline: (3: 1 -10) Peter Heals a Lame Man (3: 11 -16) Peter’s Sermon: Rebuking Fellow Israelites (3: 17 -26) Peter’s Sermon: Inviting Fellow Israelites

A Mild Reassurance [vs. 17] Why did they kill Jesus? It was according to “ignorance” (agnoian) that they “behaved” in this way. They were following their rulers/leaders. Question: Can you think of other instances in history when people both acted according to ignorance and simply followed their leaders to commit an atrocious action? Also, [vs. 18] God’s prophets predicted Jesus’ sufferings. Does that take away from the guilt of the people who killed Jesus?

The Call to Decision 2 Demands: Repent (literally “change your mind”) Be converted (literally, “turn”) Some commentators point to the idea of “turning away from” sin and “turning to” God. The Results: Sins will be “blotted out” (essentially “erased”) Times/Seasons of “refreshing” (cooling or reviving with fresh air) will come

The Heavenly Activities [vs. 20] God will send Jesus “Christ” (the Messiah), but first heaven must receive Him. [vs. 21] The appointed time of “restoration” (KJV: restitution). Once again, Dr. Luke uses a medical term. The word connotes the restoring of health, or perhaps even fixing a dislocated joint. The prophets predicted such an age.

Testimony of Prophets [Moses, vs. 22 -23] God will raise up a prophet from “your brothers” (Jewish). The demand: you shall listen to him, lest you be “utterly destroyed. ” [Samuel and others, vs. 24 -26] Their special relationship: “sons of the prophets” and “of the covenant God made. ” [vs. 25] “And in your offspring shall the families of the earth be blessed. ” (to Abraham, Gen. 12) [vs. 26] Why God sent His “servant” (Jesus): to bless them in helping them to “to turn away from” (also the command in vs. 19) their wickedness.

Acts 4 Outline: (4: 1 -4) The Arrest of Peter & John (4: 5 -12) The Message of Peter to the Rulers, Elders, & Scribes (4: 13 -22) The Reaction to Peter’s Message (4: 23 -31) The Believers’ Boldness (4: 32 -37) The Believers’ Benevolence

The Angered Ones Sadducees = were “grieved” (KJV), or “troubled” Why? = The apostles were preaching about Jesus’ “resurrection. ” Sadducees’ Beliefs = They are often contrasted with the Pharisees (Pharisees believed in a Messiah, the resurrection of the spirit following death, angelic beings, and oral traditions of the Torah). The Sadducees might be considered very “conservative, ” appealing only to the written text of Scripture as possessing divine authority. Also, many were politically active (says Josephus), and were in favor of keeping peace with the Romans to preserve their political and property interests.

The Arrest [vs. 3] Peter and John were arrested and held in prison because it was “eventide” (evening) [vs. 4] Despite imprisonment, the church grew incredibly quickly (5, 000 men [males alone]) From those who heard Peter’s message in Acts 3 Question: Why is it that unbelievers often seem to be more inclined to believing the gospel when Christians are being persecuted? Why wouldn’t they be more inclined during times of peace?

Acts 4 Outline: (4: 1 -4) The Arrest of Peter & John (4: 5 -12) The Message of Peter to the Rulers, Elders, & Scribes (4: 13 -22) The Reaction to Peter’s Message (4: 23 -31) The Believers’ Boldness (4: 32 -37) The Believers’ Benevolence

The Audience Groups: Rulers (probably priestly representation of the Sanhedrin), Elders (probably lay members from the Jewish aristocracy), and Scribes (religious interpreters). Specific People: Annas (high priest “emeritus”) and his son-in-law Caiaphas (technical “high priest, ” A. D. 18 -36). These two were instrumental in the conviction of Jesus (John 18). John (perhaps the son of Annas), Alexander (perhaps a member of the priestly aristocracy), and “other” members of family of Annas.

The Question [vs. 7] “By what power [authority] or by what name did you do this? ” There was a long history of Jewish figures that led revolts historically—perhaps they were wanting to keep the peace? Perhaps, too, they were looking into blasphemy charges. Remember the importance of the “name” that Peter will discuss in vs. 10 and 12.

Peter’s Response Preliminary point: Peter was “filled with the Holy Spirit” [vs. 8] [vs. 10] The healing of the lame man was accomplished “by the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene. ” The Reminder = “whom you crucified”; “whom God raised from the dead. ” This is the gospel message (1 Cor. 15: 3 -4).

The Old Testament Prophecy [vs. 11] the “stone [Jesus] that was rejected” by the “builders” [the religious leaders], “has become the cornerstone. ” This text is from Psalm 118: 22 (cornerstone terminology is also in other passages, like Isaiah 28)

The Exclusivity of Jesus [vs. 12] “Salvation” “Name” Again, just as their authority and power to heal came from Jesus, so too is salvation alone in Jesus. “we” Why does Peter seem to go from the healing of the man, to identity of Jesus being the “cornerstone, ” and now to “salvation”? Peter had spoken in second-person (“you”); now he says “we” can only be saved by Jesus’ name. Views of salvation: Some say there are many ways to God (so long as someone is sincere— example: a seemingly pious person in the Amazon or Africa) Gospel only (salvation is only acquired through faith in Jesus)

Acts 4 Outline: (4: 1 -4) The Arrest of Peter & John (4: 5 -12) The Message of Peter to the Rulers, Elders, & Scribes (4: 13 -22) The Reaction to Peter’s Message (4: 23 -31) The Believers’ Boldness (4: 32 -37) The Believers’ Benevolence

The “Credentials” of Peter & John [vs. 13] “they were unlearned [untrained] and ignorant [from the Greek word, idiwtai] men. ” Credential that mattered = “they had been with Jesus” [vs. 14] The healed man was standing with them (it’s hard to argue with that kind of evidence). Also, was the healed man jailed too?

The “Legal” Response [vs. 15 -18] They recognized a miracle was performed (vs. 16), and that they could not deny it. They commanded Peter & John to refrain from speaking to anyone “in this name” (about Jesus).

Peter & John’s Response [vs. 19] To the people = You be the judge whether it is right to obey the rulers more than God (somewhat sarcastic). [vs. 21] They couldn’t find any grounds on which to punish them, but also the people were glorifying God over the man’s healing (a 40+ year old at that!). If the rulers charged Peter and John with blasphemy, then they would’ve had to do the same with the entire crowd. The result? Probably mayhem.

Acts 4 Outline: (4: 1 -4) The Arrest of Peter & John (4: 5 -12) The Message of Peter to the Rulers, Elders, & Scribes (4: 13 -22) The Reaction to Peter’s Message (4: 23 -31) The Believers’ Boldness (4: 32 -37) The Believers’ Benevolence

Peter and John Return [vs. 23] They returned to their “own company” (possibly just the apostles, but more than likely a larger group of Jerusalem believers). [vs. 24 -28] God is addressed in prayer as Lord, maker of heaven, earth, sea, and all that is in them (He’s a sovereign God). While rulers and kings attempt to thwart God’s plans (vs. 26), God’s “hand” and “counsel” determined these actions before they were done (vs. 28). [vs. 31] After praying, the place they were in shook, they were filled with the Holy Spirit, and spoke God’s Word with boldness.

Acts 4 Outline: (4: 1 -4) The Arrest of Peter & John (4: 5 -12) The Message of Peter to the Rulers, Elders, & Scribes (4: 13 -22) The Reaction to Peter’s Message (4: 23 -31) The Believers’ Boldness (4: 32 -37) The Believers’ Benevolence

The Early Church’s Generosity [vs. 32 -35] As we saw in ch. 2, the believers gave to everyone in their Christian community that had needs. They even sold property to help those in need (vs. 34). This wasn’t an entirely radical concept to Jews (Deut. 15: 4). The Administration = While there may have been some individuals giving straight to individuals, the “system” in place was for people to give money to the apostles, who redistributed those gifts (compare to today’s practices). [vs. 36 -37] Barnabas = Given name was Joseph, he was a Cypriot (Cyrpus), a Levite (priestly tribe), and seller of land to help others’ needs. He represents what was the ideal process for giving in the early church (compare to ch. 5).

A) I worked as an assistant manager at Chick-Fil-A B) I performed editing work for a US presidential candidate C) I have never been on a rollercoaster 2 Truths And a Lie

Acts 5 Outline: (5: 1 -6) Ananias Lies…and Dies (5: 7 -11) Sapphira Lies…and Dies (5: 12 -16) The Apostles Perform Signs and Wonders (5: 17 -26) The Apostles Are Arrested, Then Miraculously Released (5: 27 -32) The Apostle Refuse to Disobey God’s Calling to Preach the Gospel (5: 33 -42) Gamaliel Speaks and the Apostles are Released

The “Embezzlement” of Ananias & Sapphira “But” (Remember the good example of Barnabas from chapter 4? ) The possession = Clarified in vs. 3 as being “land” “kept back” = this is a rare Greek verb that is used in the story of Achan from Joshua 7 (the LXX), when he took the items from Jericho that were to be set apart unto God. We might translate the action of Ananias and Sapphira as “embezzlement. ”

The Accusation [vs. 3] Ananias and Sapphira “lied” to the Holy Spirit (that is, “unto God”) [vs. 4] They didn’t have to sell the property; they even could have kept some of the revenue if they desired. What was their sin? Simply lying.

The Death of Ananias He “gave up the ghost” = He died The result = “great fear came on all them that heard these things. ” This was essentially the first “great sin” of the early church recorded in Acts. His odd burial = While burials may have been quicker then compared to the West’s process today, this was unusually hasty. When would such a burial be so quick? Suicides, criminals, and in perceived judgments from God. [compare to John 11—Lazarus]

Acts 5 Outline: (5: 1 -6) Ananias Lies…and Dies (5: 7 -11) Sapphira Lies…and Dies (5: 12 -16) The Apostles Perform Signs and Wonders (5: 17 -26) The Apostles Are Arrested, Then Miraculously Released (5: 27 -32) The Apostle Refuse to Disobey God’s Calling to Preach the Gospel (5: 33 -42) Gamaliel Speaks and the Apostles are Released

Sapphira is Confronted 3 Hours Later = Sapphira was unaware of what happened. [vs. 8 -9] She “agreed together” in the embezzlement plan with her husband. [vs. 10] Whereas other Christians laid money at the feet of the apostles, ironically Sapphira died at his feet. [vs. 11] More fear resulted from the church. This is the first time the word for church (ekklesia) is used in Acts.

Acts 5 Outline: (5: 1 -6) Ananias Lies…and Dies (5: 7 -11) Sapphira Lies…and Dies (5: 12 -16) The Apostles Perform Signs and Wonders (5: 17 -26) The Apostles Are Arrested, Then Miraculously Released (5: 27 -32) The Apostle Refuse to Disobey God’s Calling to Preach the Gospel (5: 33 -42) Gamaliel Speaks and the Apostles are Released

The Apostolic Strength [vs. 12] “Sings and wonders” were performed by the apostles; perhaps they “headquartered” from Solomon’s porch (referred to earlier in Acts from a sermon by Peter). [vs. 13] No one dared to join the apostles, lest they too invoke the judgment of God (i. e. Ananias and Sapphira). [vs. 14] Despite the surprising deaths of two members, more men and women became believers (not exactly “seeker-sensitive, ” yet the church grew).

The Great Amount of Healing The needy = The sick, even those on beds and couches (mats), as well as those with “unclean spirits” (demon possessed/oppressed). Peter’s shadow = it was a typical superstition in the ancient world to see a shadow of a person as an extension of him. The Bible simply says people followed after Peter’s shadow; whether or not they were healed upon interacting with his shadow, the Bible doesn’t say. All we know is God was the true source of the healing. Are the “faith healers” today legitimate?

Acts 5 Outline: (5: 1 -6) Ananias Lies…and Dies (5: 7 -11) Sapphira Lies…and Dies (5: 12 -16) The Apostles Perform Signs and Wonders (5: 17 -26) The Apostles Are Arrested, Then Miraculously Released (5: 27 -32) The Apostle Refuse to Disobey God’s Calling to Preach the Gospel (5: 33 -42) Gamaliel Speaks and the Apostles are Released

Another Imprisonment The Indignant Instigators = The high priest with a group of Sadducees (recall that this was the conservative branch, distinct from the Pharisees). [vs. 18 -19] They were thrown in prison again, but “an” angel of the Lord (not “the, ” as in the KJV) opened the prison doors, commanding them to go back to the temple (where they just had been arrested) and speak “all the words of this life” (that is, how the gospel can change your life). Irony = An angel released the apostles (the Sadducees didn’t believe in angels!)

The Released Apostles [vs. 21 -24] While the released apostles were preaching, the high priest made plans to bring them out of prison to testify. The gates were properly locked with alert guards, but no apostles. They “doubted” (better trans. “were perplexed”) about this problem. [vs. 25 -26] Someone came to them with news of their whereabouts. They cautiously reprimanded the apostles, fearing the people that they (the religious/political leaders) would be stoned to death.

Acts 5 Outline: (5: 1 -6) Ananias Lies…and Dies (5: 7 -11) Sapphira Lies…and Dies (5: 12 -16) The Apostles Perform Signs and Wonders (5: 17 -26) The Apostles Are Arrested, Then Miraculously Released (5: 27 -32) The Apostle Refuse to Disobey God’s Calling to Preach the Gospel (5: 33 -42) Gamaliel Speaks and the Apostles are Released

The Council & High Priest’s Accusation The apostles (especially Peter & John) broke the commandment to not teach in Jesus’ name. Their fear = They apparently intended “to bring this man’s blood upon us [the Jewish leaders]. ” This was actually a legal definition for bearing guilt in murder. The result would be execution. In other words, the Jewish leaders were trying to protect themselves from being executed.

Peter’s Response [vs. 29 -32] Peter and the apostles = “We ought to obey God rather [or “more”] than men. ” When is it acceptable to disobey government? The Counter-Accusation = God “of our fathers” (Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, etc. ) raised up Jesus; the religious leader “slew and hanged [Jesus] on a tree. ” God exalted Jesus, and offers forgiveness of sins through repentance. What is this message? The GOSPEL (death and resurrection; forgiveness through repentance). Another point = the apostles didn’t want the religious leaders dead; they wanted them to be saved (John Polhill, p. 169).

Acts 5 Outline: (5: 1 -6) Ananias Lies…and Dies (5: 7 -11) Sapphira Lies…and Dies (5: 12 -16) The Apostles Perform Signs and Wonders (5: 17 -26) The Apostles Are Arrested, Then Miraculously Released (5: 27 -32) The Apostle Refuse to Disobey God’s Calling to Preach the Gospel (5: 33 -42) Gamaliel Speaks and the Apostles are Released

The Responses The Religious Leaders = They were “cut to the heart” (or enraged), and wanted to slay (or destroy/kill) the apostles. Apparently, they didn’t’ want to obey the Holy Spirit (vs. 32). The Exception = Gamaliel, a Pharisee and doctor (teacher) of the law, a man of a high reputation. The Pharisees are often criticized for their hypocrisy and legalism. Those are potential stumbling blocks, but the Pharisees are not inherently evil (see also Nicodemus). Application = a Bible college/seminary student.

Gamaliel’s Perspective [vs. 35 -37] Historical consideration = Theudas and Judas of Galilee led movements, but they fizzled out eventually. Theudas = led about 400 men (not much else is known). Judas = “in the days of the taxing [census], ” he started a rebellion against Quirinius (A. D. 6 -7), but also failed. [vs. 38 -39] God-centered consideration = If the movement is of man, it will die. If it is of God…how dare you oppose God?

The Release [vs. 40] The punishment = The apostles were flogged 39 times (Deut. 25: 3) as a warning. This was not a small punishment; some had even died from these 39 lashes (2 x on back; 1 x on chest. . . 13 x). [vs. 41] The rejoicing = Despite this horrible pain, they rejoiced in the fact that they could suffer on behalf of Jesus. [vs. 42] The “disobedience”/obedience = They “ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ” (see vs. 40).

Acts 6 Outline: (6: 1 -7) The Selection of Seven Servers (6: 8 -15) The Seizing of Stephen

Early Church Contentions Church growth = “when the number of the disciples was multiplied. ” With growth comes new opportunities for conflict. The contenders = Grecians [Hellenists; Greek-speaking Jews] vs. the Hebrews [Aramaic-speaking Jews]. The cause = Hellenistic Christians believed their widows were being neglected (in favor of the Hebrews). Widow ministry also seen in 1 Tim. 5 Application: What are some “people groups” today that feel neglected in the Church?

Jewish Customs of Widow Assistance Quppah = Weekly money given out every Friday that supplied 14 meals (until the next Quppah). Tamhuy = More broadly for those in need, this was a daily practice for Jews that were not native to the city, and consisted of food and drink supplies, delivered from house to house.

The Reasoning of the Apostles The twelve = apostles The multitude of the disciples = in other words, everyone was involved in ministry. “It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. ” Reason = desirable/please [to God] The balance = they were not saying that practical acts of service were unimportant to God; rather, they were called to proclaiming the Word of God, others would fulfill their God-given role of service (see qualifications in vs. 3). Tables = probably a reference to serving food to Christians in need (especially the widows).

The Seven Men The process of selection = the brethren (congregation) selected the men; the apostles would put them in charge of the ministry. Men of honest report = literally, they bore witness (from the word, martureo). Qualifications = Full of the Spirit and wisdom. Yes, even for serving widows food.

Prototype for the Office of Deacon Technically, the word diakonos (deacon) is not used here for these 7 men. But we can probably assume that they were the “prototype” for the office of deacon we see elsewhere in the NT. Comparison to 1 Timothy 3: 8 -13 [vs. 8] Respectable character [vs. 9] Strong believers [vs. 10] Proven [vs. 11] Faithful wives [vs. 12] Faithful to their wives and children [vs. 13] Committed faith Application: How do deacons serve in churches today? From my professor in college (Dr. Jerry Hullinger): Deacons are to have the spiritual qualities of the elders/pastors, but not the same authority or function; deacons are to serve.

1 Timothy 3: 8 -13 8 Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre; 9 Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. 10 And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless. 11 Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things. 12 Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. 13 For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.

The Apostles’ Emphasis [vs. 4] “give ourselves continually” = be devoted to something. Prayer Ministry/Service (ironically, diakonia) of the word

The Multitude’s Selections [The Major Servant] Stephen = a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit (see qualifications). He will be the main character in proceeding verses. [The 5] Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, and Parmenas (all of these men were likely Hellenistic Jewish Christians). [The Proselyte] Nicolas = a proselyte was not ethnically Jewish (from the mother’s lineage), but converted to Judaism. He evidently “converted” a second time (or continued in the Judeo-Christian fulfillments) to Christianity.

The Ceremony and Response [vs. 6] They prayed and laid their hands on them Probably not like our modern practices of ordination, but in the OT sense: transference of a person’s responsibilities to another (Moses & Joshua in Num. 27). [vs. 7] 3 Responses: The Word of God increased (probably because the apostles could devote enough time now) The number of disciples multiplied Even priests were “obedient to the faith” (John Polhill notes that there were as many as 8, 000 priests in Palestine at the time; they were not quite like the Sadducean priestly aristocrats, as most were very poor and even worked bi-vocationally).

Acts 6 Outline: (6: 1 -7) The Selection of Seven Servers (6: 8 -15) The Seizing of Stephen

Stephen’s Characteristics [vs. 8] The man who was full of the Spirit was also “full of faith and power. ” Remember, Stephen was not an apostle; he “served tables. ” Yet, he also “did great wonders and miracles among the people. ” He was the first nonapostle mentioned in Acts to do these things.

The Antagonists to Stephen The people who opposed Stephen = Jews (“of the synagogue”) of the Libertines (or “Freedmen, ” perhaps composed of former slaves). [1] Cyrenians (near modern-day Libya), [2] Alexandrians, [3] Cilicia, and [4] of Asia. The Apostle Paul was Cilician (city of Tarsus), and possibly even was part of the Cilician synagogue. They could not “resist the wisdom and the spirit” of Stephen. Probably meaning they couldn’t refute what he was saying. They were “suborned” (KJV) = secretly instigated Their claims = Stephen spoke blasphemous words against Moses and against God. What was the typical legal action?

The Stir [vs. 12] Even the “people” diverged now from the early Christians, as well as the elders (represented by the Sadducees) and scribes (represented by the Pharisees), who brought Stephen to the Sanhedrin. How they “secretly instigated” = setting up false witnesses (ironically, this contradicted the 9 th commandment = Thou shalt not bear false witness)

The Claims [vs. 14] Stephen allegedly spoke about Jesus destroying the temple (see John 2: 19). Ironically, this charge was also made against Jesus (Mark 14: 57 -58). Attack against God. Also, he would “change the customs which Moses delivered. ” Attack against the Law.

Stephen’s Face “Face of an angel” = Indicates something important (Moses descending from Sinai [Ex. 34] and Jesus on the mount of transfiguration [Luke 9]).