Introduction
The New Testament The New Testament comprises twenty-seven books, divided into four Gospels, (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John), Acts (Acts of The Apostles), twenty-one Epistles (Romans, 1 Corinthians, 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 Thessalonians, 2 Thessalonians, 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon, Hebrews, James, 1 Peter, 2 Peter, 1 John, 2 John, 3 John and Jude) and one Apocalypse (Revelation).
The Book of Acts (Acts of The Apostles)
Background
The Book of “Acts”, (Eusebius) also known as the “Acts of The Apostles” is the fifth book of the New Testament and was written during the period approximately between AD 61 and 64 [1]. It covers the period from Jesus Christ’s ascension (AD 30) to Paul’s imprisonment (AD 68) [2].
Although he does not mention his name in both books, it is believed that Paul’s companion, Luke, authored the books of “Luke” and “Acts.” It is also believed that Acts is a continuation of the Gospel book of “Luke.” This is shown in Luke 1:1-4, in which he dedicates his message to Theophilus and continues in Acts 1:1-3 by reminding Theophilus what he addressed in the former book. Archaeological research has confirmed the credibility of Luke’s account of the work of the apostles in Acts [2]. Although it was dedicated to “Theophilus,” Luke’s message in Acts applies to all Christians.
Who was Luke?
Luke was a physician and the only Gentile to write a book in the New Testament. He was Paul’s friend whom he referred to as a “fellow-labourer.” It is believed that Luke was very fluent in Greek and accompanied Paul in most of his journeys like the ones to Jerusalem and Rome. Luke was also with Paul when the latter was jailed [1]
Who was/were “Theophilus?”
In the New Testament of the Bible, the name "Theophilus" is mentioned in the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts. In the Gospel of Luke, the author addresses Theophilus as the recipient of the Gospel, suggesting that Theophilus may have been a person of importance or a patron who supported the writing of the Gospel. The exact identity of Theophilus is not specified in the text.
Only twice in the Bible is the name Theophilus mentioned, namely in Luke 1:1–4 and Acts 1:1–3 . Luke wrote these two books roughly between 61 and 63 AD, during the time the Apostle Paul was imprisoned in Rome and Luke remained in his company, as stated in 2 Timothy 4:11 .
There are so many theories suggesting who Theophilus was/were. Some theologians believe that the name “Theophilus” is a generic title that relates to all Christians. Others believe that since Luke addressed Theophilus as “most excellent,” he was probably a wealthy person in the city of Antioch or a high-ranking Roman officer working for the government [1]
The Transition Acts contains twenty-eight chapters and is a Transitional Book from the Law to Grace. It tells the story of Jesus starting His Church with the Jews and then the Gentiles [3]. It is about a shift from salvation through water baptism to salvation without water baptism. In Acts 2:38, Peter preaches of repentance and water baptism. This was a continuation of John’s message. Peter then preaches the Gospel through faith in the name of Jesus in Acts 3:13-16.
Stephen, "the first Christian martyr" preaches to the Jews, the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, in Acts 7:52 . Phillip was the first to preach to the Gentiles when he preached to the Ethiopian Eunuch (Acts 8:32-38 ). This is the turning point from salvation from water Baptism to salvation through the Blood of the Lamb, which represents the atonement. This is the same Gospel that Paul taught the Gentiles. This is a clear transition from “who Jesus was” to “what Jesus did.” In this transition, the Jews rejected God three times; “God the Father” through John the Baptist, “God the Son” through Jesus Christ, and “God the Holy Spirit” through the preaching of Stephen by stoning him to death, in Acts Chapter 7 [3].
The Work of the Apostles Although its name purports to be covering the work of many apostles, the main characters are Peter and Paul. God used Peter more for the Jews and Paul for the Gentiles. Acts is full of both wise teaching and contradictions. For one to fully understand the Book of Acts, one has to “rightly divide the scriptures” (2 Timothy 2:15 ).
According to theologians, due to its mentioning of the “Holy Spirit” about sixty times, the book of Acts could easily be known as “The Acts of the Holy Spirit.” “Acts” has five different ways in which Christians receive the Holy Spirit and these are:
Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4): The disciples were gathered together on the day of Pentecost when the Holy Spirit descended upon them as tongues of fire. This event marked the initial outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the early believers.
Through the laying on of hands (Acts 8:14-17): When Philip preached in Samaria, many people believed and were baptized. However, they had not received the Holy Spirit. Peter and John were sent to pray for them, laying hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.
Through hearing the word (Acts 10:44-48): While Peter was preaching to Cornelius and his household, the Holy Spirit fell upon all who heard the message. This occurred even before they were baptized, demonstrating that God can bestow the Holy Spirit upon believers through hearing the Gospel.
During baptism (Acts 19:1-7): Paul encountered some disciples in Ephesus who had only received the baptism of John. After they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus, Paul laid hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.
Directly from God (Acts 9:1-19, 22:6-16): Saul, who later became the apostle Paul, encountered Jesus on the road to Damascus. Ananias was sent to him, and after Ananias laid hands on Saul, he received the Holy Spirit.
These instances showcase various ways in which the Holy Spirit was imparted to believers in the early Christian community, illustrating the diversity of experiences within the context of receiving the Holy Spirit as described in the book of Acts.
Today, there is only one way of receiving the Holy Spirit and this is through salvation by trusting the Gospel.
Purpose of Writing Acts
The Book of Acts is about the history of the early church covering the training of the twelve disciples and [4] emphasising the fulfilment of the Great Commission. It is the transition from the Old Covenant to the New One. Acts gives a detailed account of Christians witnessing in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the neighbouring areas. It introduces the Holy Spirit who was promised by Jesus Christ upon His ascension. During their witnessing, the apostles performed many miracles as a way of supporting their gospel. Acts covers the interim period between the ascension of Christ and the conclusion of the New Testament canon.
Highlights of Acts
Chapters one to three cover God’s purpose for His Church, the training of the twelve disciples and the Great Commission, respectively. The main highlights start with the promise for the Christians to receive the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8 ). This was fulfilled when they started to speak in tongues as they gathered at Pentecost (Acts 2:4 ). Chapter four continues with more believers being added to the Church followed by Ananias and Sapphira who lied to Peter (and the Holy Spirit) resulting in their death in chapter five. Due to their work of spreading the Gospel, the Apostles are arrested and released.
Chapter Seven narrates the first Christian Martyr, Stephen, who was a Jew but very fluent in the Greek language and familiar with its customs. Stephen preached the Gospel so eloquently that the rulers and priests, including Saul (later known as Paul), were jealous. This was a fulfilment of the prophecy in Luke 21:14.15. Stephen was stoned to death and just before he died, he pleaded with the Lord not to lay charges against his murderers.
After Stephen’s death, Saul of Tarsus, who partook in the stoning of Stephen, a Jew by descent but Roman citizen by birth, [4] converted from persecutor to Disciple. Paul’s conversion is the major highlight in the Book of Acts [1] [2]. This was a clear illustration of the power of God unto redemption.
Some Key “Contradictions” in Acts
Although it is believed that the Bible does not contradict itself and according to 2 Timothy 3:16, “all scripture is inspired and beneficial,” the Book of Acts contains some “flaws,” both internally and compared to scriptures in other books of the Bible; [5].
Paul’s Arrest
When Paul is arrested in Acts 21:28-30, for teaching against the Jews and the Law, he did not address the issues he was arrested for. Instead, he recounts how he became a Christian. This indicates how Luke wanted to advance his plot of transition in Christianity.
Peter’s View of the Law
Peter, who was a Jew, describes the Law as intolerable. This is not something expected of Peter’s upbringing. This could have been a plot by the author to paint a picture of the apostles’ Christian beliefs. This also contradicts what Jesus taught in Matthew 5:18-19 that the law must be upheld (Luke 16:17 ).
Jesus’ Work
Contrary to John’s writings, (John 21:25 ), Luke claims to have written everything Jesus did and taught, (Acts 1:1 ) [5].
Judas Iscariot’s Death
In Acts 1:18, the author wrote about Peter telling the story of how Judas Iscariot bought a field and died by falling. However, Matthew recorded Judas Iscariot’s death as suicide by hanging, (Matthew 27:5 ).
Psalm 110:1
Peter quotes Psalm 110:1 in Acts 2: 30-36 to show that Jesus was a descendant of David. On the contrary, in Mark 12:35-37, Jesus quoted the same verse to indicate the opposite.
Cornelius’ Baptism
In Acts 10:23-48, the Jews are surprised that Cornelius, a gentile, was baptised. This should not have surprised them since Jesus had commanded the apostles to preach the gospel to the “whole world,” according to Mark 16:15 and Matthew 28:19.
Jesus Sent to the Jews
Jesus’ statement in Matthew 28:19-20 seems to contradict what He said earlier in the Book of Matthew, that He was sent to the Jews, (Matthew 15:24 ). In the Book of Acts, there isn't a direct statement or instance where Jesus contradicts His earlier statement in Matthew 15:24 about being sent to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. Throughout the Book of Acts, there's a focus on the spreading of the Gospel to both Jews and Gentiles, which aligns with the broader mission highlighted in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20).
However, there are passages in Acts that depict the expansion of the Gospel beyond the Jewish community, indicating a shift toward including Gentiles in the message of salvation. One notable event is Peter's vision in Acts 10, where he sees a vision from God three times, emphasizing that what God has cleansed should not be considered unclean. This vision prepares Peter to visit Cornelius, a Gentile, and his household. As Peter preaches to them, the Holy Spirit falls upon the Gentiles present, indicating God's acceptance of them (Acts 10:34-48 ).
Additionally, there are other instances in Acts where Paul and other apostles actively preach to Gentiles and establish Christian communities among them. Paul's missionary journeys, as detailed in Acts, involve preaching to both Jews and Gentiles in various regions, demonstrating a broader outreach of the Gospel beyond the Jewish community.
While there isn't a direct contradiction between Jesus' statement in Matthew 15:24 and any specific statement or action in Acts, the narrative in Acts shows the progression of the Gospel message from its initial focus on the Jewish people to its eventual inclusion and spread among the Gentiles, fulfilling the broader mission outlined in the Great Commission.
Paul’s Spiritual Progression
Generally, Paul may be portrayed as an immature Christian compared to the time when he wrote his letters to the different churches at later stages. In the Book of Acts, particularly in its earlier chapters, we witness Paul's journey and development as a Christian leader. Initially, he appears as Saul, a devout Jew known for persecuting early Christians. His encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:1-19) leads to a radical transformation, after which he becomes one of the most influential figures in the early Christian church.
In the early stages depicted in Acts, Paul—formerly Saul—might not be explicitly characterized as immature, but he does display fervour and zeal that sometimes translates into impulsiveness. Notably, in Acts 9:26-30, after his conversion, he arrives in Jerusalem and attempts to join the disciples, but they are afraid of him due to his previous persecution of Christians. Barnabas intervenes and vouches for him, enabling Paul to connect with the believers in Jerusalem.
Paul's early days in Acts show him beginning to preach boldly in synagogues, leading to opposition and persecution. In Acts 13 and onwards, he embarks on missionary journeys, preaching the Gospel and facing various challenges.
However, as we progress through the Book of Acts and later in his letters (Epistles) included in the New Testament, we see a more seasoned and mature Paul. His letters—Romans, Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, Thessalonians, Timothy, Titus, and Philemon—reflect deeper theological insights, pastoral guidance, and a more developed understanding of Christian doctrine and practice.
The letters often address specific issues within the churches, providing guidance, encouragement, and correction when necessary. For instance, in the Corinthian letters, Paul addresses various problems in the Corinthian church, offering practical advice and theological explanations on matters like divisions, immorality, spiritual gifts, and the resurrection.
Paul's maturity in his letters comes from his growth and experience in ministry, encountering different cultures, facing challenges, and studying God's Word over time. His transformation from the zealous persecutor of Christians to an apostle who played a pivotal role in spreading Christianity highlights his spiritual and intellectual evolution. His letters reflect this growth, showcasing a profound understanding of the Gospel and a pastoral heart for the churches he helped establish.
What We Learn from the Book of Acts
One great lesson one can learn from Acts is that God can use The Holy Spirit to perform wonders. It also teaches that He can turn ordinary people like fishermen to make an impact in the world. In addition to that, God converted a murderer who hated Christians, Paul to a loving apostle. In the same way, He can change our hearts using The Holy Spirit to impact the work of others. God also showed that if we try to achieve God’s work without the Holy Spirit, then it would result in total failure [1].
Glossary
Acts: The Book of “Acts of The Apostles.”
AD: Anno Domini, a Latin term meaning "in the year of the Lord." AD generally applies to the time since Christ's birth.
Apostle: One who is sent out
Atonement: The reconciliation of God and mankind through the shedding of the Blood of Jesus Christ.
Canon: The rule of law that was used to determine if a book measured up to a standard.
Canon of Scripture: Refers to all the books in the Christian Bible and Hebrew Scriptures that together constitute the complete and divinely inspired Word of God. Only the books of the canon are considered authoritative in matters of faith and practice.
Christ: The head of the church
Christians: Followers of Christ
Church: The Body of Christ
Closed Canon: The idea that the Bible is complete; no more books are being added to it.
Conversion: Changing from one character, type, or purpose to another. A person’s change of direction morally, psychologically, emotionally, and spiritually. Covenant: Agreement/promise/testament
Disciple: A learner or follower.
ESV: English Standard Version
Jesus Christ: God’s begotten Son who died for our sins.
Jew: A member of the people and cultural community whose traditional religion is Judaism and who trace their origins through the ancient Hebrew people of Israel to Abraham.
Gentile: a person who is not Jewish (Non-Jewish).
God the Father: The creator and sustainer of all things
God the Holy Spirit: The incarnation of God as a human being, Jesus Christ, on Earth
God the Son: God in the form of the power, which is active in the world, drawing people towards Him.
Gospel: The teaching or revelation of Christ.
Great Commission: The assignment Jesus gave to His apostles shortly before He ascended into heaven
Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit is God, the third person of the Trinity. He is a divine person, a being with a mind, emotions, and a will. He thinks, knows, can be grieved, intercedes for us, makes decisions according to His will. The Holy Spirit is a Comforter and Counsellor.
Lamb: Jesus Christ
Law: Entire Old Testament teaching
Martyr: a person who is killed because of their religious or other beliefs.
New Testament: The second part of the Christian Bible, written originally in Greek and recording the life and teachings of Jesus and his earliest followers.
Old Testament: The Old Testament (often abbreviated OT) is the first division of the Christian biblical canon, which is based primarily upon the 24 books of the Hebrew Bible or Tanakh, a collection of ancient religious Hebrew writings by the Israelites. Pentecost: The Greek name for a festival known in the Old Testament as the Feast of Weeks celebrated the end of the grain harvest.
Speaking in Tongues: Speaking in a language a person does not know to minister to someone who does speak that language.
Theophilus: The name “Theophilus” literally means “loved by God,” but carries the idea of “friend of God.”
Transitional: Period of changing from one form to another, i.e., from the Law to the Gospel
Twelve Disciples: Twelve Followers of Jesus Christ, who learned from Him, and were trained by Him.
Witnessing: Spreading the Gospel
References
[1] Got Questions, “Got Questions,” 31 08 2021. [Online]. Available: https://www.gotquestions.org. [2] D. Web, “Acts of the Apostles by David Webb © 2013: Acts-of-the-Apostles-Study-Guidewp-content/uploads/2013/05/Acts-of-the-Apostles-Study-Guide.pdf,” 31 08 2021. [Online]. Available: Acts of the Apostles by David Webb © 2013: Acts-of-thhttps://www.newtestamentchristians.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Acts-of-the-Apostles-Study-Guide.pdf. [3] R. Breaker, “Understanding the Book of Acts,” 24 March 2015. [Online]. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YbEN6pZ7Mc4. [Accessed 05 September 2021]. [4] E. G. W. Estate, “a.akamaihd.net/pdf/en_AA.pdf,” 01 09 2021. [Online]. Available: https://egwwritings-a.akamaihd.net/pdf/en_AA.pdf. [5] Rational Wiki, “Essay:Contradictions_in_Acts,” 22 October 2011. [Online]. Available: https://rationalwiki.org/wiki/Essay:Contradictions_in_Acts. [Accessed 05 09 2021]. [7] D. Oke, “Acts of the Apostles: Summary: Chapter by Chapter,” 31 08 2021. [Online]. Available: https://wordlibrary.co.uk/printarticle.php?id=321.