Welcome to a 4-week study of the book of Acts, an action packed, exciting record of the founding of the early church. We will read 7 chapters each week, with thoughts and questions prepared for each week. Since geography is a prominent feature of Acts, please use a Bible with a good set of Bible maps.
Acts is the 2nd of a two-volume set written by Luke, a Gentile Christian convert from Antioch in Syria. He wrote Luke/Acts most probably between 80 - 90 A.D. describing the events that took place sometime after 70 A.D. The book centers on the preaching and ministry of Peter and Paul and the constant presence and guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Acts 1:8 gives us the theme and outline of the book:
Jesus commissions the apostles, “When the Holy Spirit has come upon you, you will receive power and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
For Sunday, May 23, read chapters 1-7.
1. What are the key themes and significant events in each chapter?
2. What stands out for you, what strikes a chord in you in each chapter?
3. From each chapter, what questions do you have?
Personal questions:
1. Jesus tells the apostles that they are to be his witnesses from Jerusalem to the “ends of the earth.” What does it mean to you to be Jesus’ witness? Can you give an example from your life?
2. The Holy Spirit comes powerfully to those gathered to celebrate Pentecost in Jerusalem. Can you describe a time when you were filled with the Holy Spirit, or were being led by the Holy Spirit?
For Sunday, May 30, read chapters 8-14.
1. What are the key themes and significant events in each chapter?
2. What stands out for you, what strikes a chord in you in each chapter?
3. From each chapter, what questions do you have?
Personal questions:
1. 1. In Acts 8:35 Philip explains the Good News of Jesus to the Ethiopian eunuch. How would you describe this Good News?
2. 1. In Acts 14:26 Luke tells us about Paul and Barnabas experiencing God’s grace. God’s grace can be defined as free and unmerited favor; given a break, getting something good that you didn’t earn or deserve. Can you recall a time when grace was extended to you? What happened?
For Sunday, June 6, read chapters 15-21.
As you read through the chapters, look for evidence of four important themes:
1. The Holy Spirit’s prominence
2. The elevated role of women
3. The importance of prayer
4. The universality of the faith; for everyone, Jews, Gentiles, all ethnicities,
men, women, poor and rich, prisoners or free. ‘
Chapter 15:
Please describe the Jerusalem Council. What was discussed and decided?
Chapter 16:
1. In this second journey, the Holy Spirit redirects Paul’s itinerary. Have you ever had your plans redirected
either by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit or circumstances?
2. Who is Lydia and why is she important?
3. Describe the dramatic prison scene!
Chapter 17:
1. What is Paul’s experience in Thessalonica, Berea and Athens?
2. The image of God is a prominent theme in this chapter (see vv. 22-34). How would you describe your
image of God?
Chapter 18
Who are Priscilla and Aquila? Why are they important?
Chapter 19:
The believers and some prominent city leaders protected Paul from the mob. Can you recall a time when you felt God’s protection?
Chapter 20:
In verses 1-3 Luke describes Paul encouraging the believers in all the towns he passed through. When have you been encouraged in your faith by another believer? When have you had the opportunity to encourage another in their faith?
Chapter 21
Paul returns to Jerusalem where he reports about all that God has done in his work among the Gentiles. At the end of the chapter the situation takes a turn for the worse. What happens?
For Sunday, June 13, read chapters 22-28.
The Holy Spirit is a constant presence in the book of Acts. Remember that the Holy Spirit speaks to us through scripture, nature, silence and the events of daily life. Where have you sensed the Holy Spirit’s presence this week?
Chapter 22:
For the second time, we read of Paul’s life changing encounter with the risen Lord. As Paul finishes telling the story, the crowd once again threatens death. Reread vv. 24 - 30. Describe what happens between Paul and the commander.
Chapter 23:
In vv. 16-23 Luke describes a splendid little story. Read it slowly several times and make a note of what strikes you, what stands out for you.
Chapter 24:
1. In this chapter, Paul appears before Felix, the Roman governor of the area. Paul is falsely accused by
Tertullus. What are the accusations?
2. Can you recall a time when you were falsely accused? What happened?
3. How does Paul defend himself in verses 14-21?
Chapter 25:
Fast forward two years! Festus has replaced Felix as governor and Paul is still in Roman custody being held without being charged. Imagine Paul in custody for two years. (He would have been able to have visitors during this time). Given what we know about Paul, how do you imagine Paul would have spent his time?
Chapter 26:
1. We hear, for the third time, Paul’s Damascus Road conversion experience. What does Jesus tell Paul in
vv. 16-18?
2. What are your thoughts about what Jesus tells Paul?
Chapter 27:
1. This is one of the most exciting chapters in the Bible. “Luke’s narrative of the voyage and shipwreck of
Paul on his way to Italy is a small classic, as graphic a piece of writing as anything in the Bible. It has
long been acknowledged as one of the most instructive documents for the knowledge of ancient
seamanship.” [1]
2. Please follow Paul’s route to Rome on your Bible map. Chapter 27 is action packed. Read it several times
and make a note of what details stand out for you.
3. Have you experienced a harrowing travel adventure that you can share?
Chapter 28:
1. The shipwrecked group finds itself on the island of Malta. What can you find out about Malta and the
Maltese?
2. For the next two years, Paul, under house arrest, welcomed everyone who came to his house (28:30). His
door was always open. This welcoming and gracious attitude is an example for us. Who in your life
has exemplified this attitude?
[1]F.F. Bruce, The Book of Acts, p. 474.
Even if you are unable to do the reading and answer the questions, join us. It will be fun!
*Click on file below for a printable versions of this week's & next week's questions!*
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