Jan 28 2025

Introduction to the Acts of the Apostles

• The Acts of the Apostles is the fifth book of the New Testament and provides a detailed account of the early years of Christianity.

• Authorship is attributed to Luke, the same author as the Gospel of Luke.

Structure of Acts

• Divided into four sections over 28 chapters:

  • Section 1: The early church in Jerusalem.

  • Section 2: The spread of the church in Judea and Samaria.

  • Section 3: The missionary efforts, particularly of Paul.

  • Section 4: Paul's journey to Rome.

Recap of Section 2: Food Distribution and Stephen's Martyrdom

• Appointment of Seven Deacons (Acts 6:1-7):

  • Established to ensure fair food distribution among the early Christian community.

  • Key Deacons: Stephen (first martyr) and Philip.

• Stephen's Martyrdom (Acts 7):

  • Stoned to death, marking him as the first Christian martyr (protomartyr).

  • After his death, Greek-speaking Christians faced persecution and scattered to regions including Samaria and Syria.

Engaging with Samaritans: Philip's Mission (Acts 8:4-25)

• Philip, in Samaria, performed healings and conversions, noting the importance of many believing in Christianity.

• Peter and John’s Visit:

  • They conferred the Holy Spirit to new converts through the laying on of hands.

  • Simon Magus: Offered money to gain this power, thus committing simony (the buying/selling of ecclesiastical privileges).

The Conversion of Paul (Acts 9)

• Background on Paul:

  • Originally Saul, a zealous Jew who persecuted Christians.

• Damascus Experience:

  • On the road to Damascus, Saul encounters a divine voice (Jesus) and loses his sight.

  • Ananias' Vision:

    • Directed by Jesus to heal Saul, recognizing him as a chosen vessel for spreading Christianity.

• Upon receiving his sight, Saul (Paul) begins preaching in Damascus, facing opposition from his former allies.

  • Escape from Damascus: Disguised in a basket to evade persecution.

Introduction of Cornelius and Gentile Conversion (Acts 10)

• Significant Event:

  • Peter’s vision prompts him to accept Gentiles, specifically Cornelius (a Roman centurion), into the Christian faith.

  • Baptism of Cornelius marks a pivotal moment as the first non-Jewish conversion.

  • Speaking in Tongues (Glossolalia): Demonstrates the Holy Spirit's presence among the Gentiles.

Paul's Missionary Journeys

• Comprehensive focus on Paul's missionary activities starting from Chapter 13:

  • Journey Highlights:

    • First Journey: From Antioch spreading to Cyprus and parts of Asia Minor.

    • Second Journey: Expansion into Greece after a vision from God.

• Paul's method included targeting major cities and preaching in synagogues before reaching out to Gentiles.

Apostolic Council: Gentile Christian Practices

• Key Decisions from Jerusalem Council (Acts 15):

  • Debate about Jewish practices for Gentile converts, specifically regarding circumcision and dietary laws.

  • Final ruling exempted Gentiles from circumcision and strict dietary laws but prohibited food sacrificed to idols, blood, and strangled animals.

Conclusion: Paul’s Legacy

• Paul’s role in early Christianity was crucial due to his extensive travels and doctrinal teachings.

• He authored several letters (Epistles) that formed significant parts of the New Testament and influenced Christian doctrine.

• His missionary strategy and theological contributions remain central to understanding the foundation of the Christian faith.