ACTS 1
JESUS PROMISES THE ARRIVAL OF THE HOLY SPIRIT + ASCENDS INTO HEAVEN
Luke references his gospel account, the book of Luke, and states that this letter is a continuation of the narrative, telling of what occurred after the resurrection of Jesus. After Jesus is resurrected, He stays with the disciples for forty days before ascending into heaven. Jesus did not remain with the disciples forever, but He brought hope of God’s continued presence on Earth. While Jesus is with the disciples, He encourages them to remain in Jerusalem until the arrival of the Holy Spirit.
The disciples ask Jesus if the nation of Israel will be restored, hoping for freedom from Roman oppression. Jesus explains that the timing of God’s kingdom on Earth is fixed by God’s authority and not yet for the disciples to know. Jesus promises that the Holy Spirit will dwell within believers, serving as a guide and helper. John the Baptist introduced baptism with water, but Jesus now introduces a new form of baptism, receiving the Holy Spirit.
When the time comes for Jesus to return to heaven, Jesus ascends, lifted up by a cloud. Jesus tells the disciples that He will eventually return in the same way He left. Before leaving, Jesus calls the disciples to serve as His witnesses, in Jerusalem, Judea, and Samaria, and to the ends of the Earth. Through this calling, Jesus instructs the disciples to start where they are and eventually spread out to the greater area, continuing until everyone hears the news of Jesus.
After witnessing the ascension of Jesus at the Mount of Olives, the disciples return to Jerusalem and go into the upper room where they often meet. While the disciples are together, they remember the death of Judas, the disciple who hung himself after his betrayal of Jesus (Matthew 27:5). Peter acknowledges how Judas’s betrayal led to the arrest and death of Jesus.
Peter references Psalms 109:8, indicating that another disciple will take the place of Judas. The number twelve correlates to the twelve tribes of Israel and represents governance and structure. The disciples prayerfully choose Matthias to replace Judas as the twelfth disciple. Matthias knew Jesus throughout his ministry and was among the disciples from the day of Jesus’ baptism until His ascension into heaven.
Acts 1:8 “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
ACTS 2
THE ARRIVAL OF THE HOLY SPIRIT + THE BAPTISM OF THREE THOUSAND
The disciples remain in Jerusalem for the Feast of Weeks, an annual celebration and time of sacrifice. While in Jerusalem, the disciples experience a sudden appearance of fire with the sound of a mighty rushing wind. At this moment, they are filled with God’s Holy Spirit and are able to share the message of Jesus in every language!
At this time, Jerusalem was filled with people from other countries who spoke other languages, but they were all able to hear the message of the disciples in their own language. The people are bewildered by the abilities of the disciples and amazed at God’s mighty works. In Genesis 11, God divides the people and confuses their language, making it difficult for them to communicate, but now God unifies them and allows them to reach other nations for His glory.
Some of the people who witnessed this miracle are doubtful and assume the others were simply drunk. Peter intervenes, confirming that no one among them was drunk because it was early in the morning.
Peter reminds the believers that this event was previously foretold. Peter quotes the prophet Joel, telling of God's plans to bring His presence to Jerusalem and allow everyone who calls on Him to be saved. Joel prophesied a future time when God would pour out His spirit among His people (Joel 2:28-32). Peter also attests to the gladness and hope that comes from a relationship with Jesus, quoting the words of David in Psalm 16.
Peter teaches of the Davidic Covenant, God’s promise to David that a king would come from his ancestors. Jesus, a direct descendant of David, fulfilled this promise. Peter references Psalm 110, speaking of God’s presence among believers and victory over enemies. Peter’s hope is for all of Israel to know and understand with certainty that Jesus is the Savior.
Receiving Peter’s message, many people want to know how to respond to their newfound faith in Jesus. Peter instructs the believers to repent, be baptized, and receive the Holy Spirit. After this message, three thousand people believe the news of Jesus and are baptized!
Everyone who believes is in fellowship, praying and breaking bread together as followers of Christ. God’s people are generous and share with those in need. Joy and gladness become a shared trait of those who trust in Jesus and follow His teachings. Every day, God adds more and more people to those being saved by faith.
ACTS 3
PETER HEALS WITH THE AUTHORITY OF JESUS + CALLS THE PEOPLE TO REPENTANCE
When Peter and John visit the temple for prayer, they encounter a man with a physical disability begging outside the gates. When the man asks Peter and John for money, Peter responds with something greater. Speaking with the authority given to him by Jesus, Peter calls the man to stand and walk. Realizing that his ankles and feet are now healed, the man stands and begins to walk. With great joy, the man leaps, entering the temple and praising God. Many recognize the man as the beggar who was previously laid by the temple gates and are amazed when they see him miraculously healed.
In an area known as Solomon’s portico, Peter speaks to the amazed crowds. Peter states that Jesus is the source of their authority and power. Despite Israel’s rejection of Jesus, He is the one who came to save them and restore them by faith.
Peter explains that Jesus’ suffering was previously foretold by the prophets and His death on the cross fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies. Jesus also fulfilled God’s promise to Abraham, that God would bless all people through Abraham’s offspring. As a direct descendant of Abraham, Jesus offers hope to all people and makes salvation available to anyone who believes He is the Son of God (Genesis 12, Matthew 1). Peter’s message emphasizes the power of Jesus, calling the crowd to trust in Christ as the Savior and repent of their wrongdoing.
ACTS 4
PETER AND JOHN SPEAK WITH BOLDNESS BEFORE THE RELIGIOUS LEADERS
While Peter and John are sharing the message of Jesus’ resurrection, the religious leaders become annoyed by their preaching. Peter and John are taken into custody until the following day. Before their arrest, many people responded to their teaching, increasing the number of Jesus’ followers to around five thousand.
When questioned by the high priest and religious council, Peter responds with boldness, claiming their abilities to heal came from the authority of Jesus, who was killed and rose from the dead. Peter states that although Jesus was rejected, He has become the cornerstone of faith and the only source of salvation. The leaders are astonished by the confidence in which they speak, considering they are uneducated, common men.
Realizing they have no reason to imprison Peter and John, the council sends them away. Talking amongst themselves, the council wants to extinguish the teaching of Jesus, so that it will not spread any further. The council threatens Peter and John and tells them to keep quiet about Jesus, but they refuse and continue to proclaim what they have seen and heard from Jesus.
After Peter and John are released, they tell their friends what happened among the religious leaders. When they hear of Peter and John’s faithfulness and bravery, they pray together. Quoting the words of David in Psalm 2:1-2, they ask why the rulers and leaders rage against God and His people. The people pray that God will carry out His plans and provide the disciples with boldness and strength. As they pray, they are filled with the Holy Spirit and continue to speak the Word of God with boldness.
The believers are of one heart and soul, unified as followers of Jesus. They are filled with grace and provide abundantly for one another. Many of them, including a man named Barnabas, sell their land as a means to provide financially for the disciples.
Acts 4:12 “And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”
ACTS 5
THE DISCIPLES ACT WITH AUTHORITY + PREACH THE GOSPEL
Similar to Barnabas, a couple named Ananias and Sapphira sell their land. Instead of entrusting the disciples with the entirety of the proceeds, they kept some for themselves. Peter confronts their selfishness, knowing they were lying to God about their contribution. Due to their deceit, both Ananias and Sapphira suddenly drop dead.
The disciples continue performing great acts and signs, healing people, and sharing the good news of Jesus. Many more people, both men and women, place their faith in Jesus. Because Peter has the ability and authority to heal others, many people with illnesses or afflictions desire to be near him. Similar to the faith of the hemorrhaging woman in Matthew 9 who believed that touching the fringe of Jesus’ cloak would heal her, people believe that Peter’s shadow is powerful enough to heal them!
Upon hearing this, the religious leaders are filled with jealousy and rage. They arrest the disciples, throwing them into prison. During the night, the disciples are freed by an angel of God, who opens the prison doors and lets them out. When the high priest arrives at the prison, there is no one to be found.
Upon hearing the disciples are no longer imprisoned, the religious leaders find the messengers of Jesus teaching at the temple. As the disciples share their faith in Jesus as the resurrected Savior, the leaders are enraged and want to kill the disciples. Despite being charged not to speak of Jesus any further, Peter and the other disciples choose to obey God over the religious and political leaders.
Before they could act on their anger, a man named Gamaliel encourages the religious leaders to wait before killing or arresting the disciples. Gamaliel reminds them of multiple other men who made great claims and built a following but dissipated in influence after their deaths. Making a logical argument, Gamaliel tells the religious leaders that the message of Jesus will either blow over or be revealed as the truth of God. Considering the message of Jesus is still alive today, Gamaliel’s point argues the validity of the disciples’ message.
ACTS 6
STEPHEN IS APPOINTED + FACES OPPOSITION
As the number of Jesus’ followers continues to grow, the number of requests for service and healing also increases. Wanting to reach more people, the disciples appoint seven men to serve alongside them, specifically to serve the Greek population. Stephen, Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolaus are the seven men chosen, based on their wisdom and reliance on the Holy Spirit.
Stephen is a faithful and powerful leader who produces great signs and wonders among the people. Stephen faces great opposition from the synagogue. False witnesses speak against Stephen, saying he spoke blasphemy against Moses and God. The Jewish people who do not follow Jesus are concerned that the temple will be destroyed, and religious customs will be revoked.
When Stephen is brought before the religious council, Stephen’s face appears as the face of an angel. Although the text is not clear what this looked like, it’s possible it resembled the face of Moses, who shimmered after seeing God face-to-face (Exodus 34), or the angel outside of Jesus’ tomb who appeared like lightning (Matthew 28).
ACTS 7
STEPHEN STONED FOR HIS DECLARATION OF FAITH IN JESUS
When questioned by the high priest, Stephen responds by summarizing the history of the faith and the foundation of his claims.
Starting with Abraham, God has set a plan in motion to restore His relationship with humanity. Although the Israelites were enslaved and oppressed, Abraham’s descendants would become a great nation (Genesis 12–15). Stephen recalls Jacob, father to twelve sons, who became the twelve tribes of Israel. One of the sons, Joseph, faced great opposition, but rose to power in Egypt and provided for his brothers who betrayed him (Genesis 35–50).
Stephen recollects the life and leadership of Moses, starting with his birth in Egypt (Exodus 1–2). Through the message of a burning bush, God called Moses to be a leader among the Israelites and lead them out of Egyptian oppression (Exodus 3–14).
Stephen emphasizes the rejection that Moses faced from the Israelites. Although God sent Moses and the prophets, the people refused to listen and obey. Stephen quotes the prophet Amos, who foretold Israel’s captivity in Babylon (Amos 5:25). Stephen remembers the creation of the temple and claims that God’s presence cannot be contained.
After reminding the priests of the historical pattern of disobedience and dismissal of God’s messengers, Stephen confronts them for possessing the same negligence and stubbornness as their ancestors. Despite God’s constant pursuit of humanity, the Israelites continually reject His messengers.
Those who heard Stephen’s speech are filled with rage, but Stephen is filled with the Holy Spirit. Stephen, knowing his death is near, gazes into heaven and sees Jesus standing at the right hand of God. Witnessed by a man named Saul, Stephen is stoned to death for his bold claims of faith and the accusations regarding Jesus’ innocence.
Stephen is known as the first Christian martyr, a person who is killed because of their religious beliefs. When Stephen is being killed, he submits his spirit to God’s will, saying “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit,” mirroring the words of Jesus on the cross in Luke 23:46. In their dying moments, both Jesus and Stephen ask God for forgiveness towards those who persecute them. Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34) and Stephen said, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” The obedience and mercy displayed by Stephen during this brutal death portrays the influence of Jesus on his life, following His example of kindness and grace to his dying moments.
ACTS 8
THE GOSPEL CONTINUES TO SPREAD THROUGH JUDEA + SAMARIA
After Stephen’s death, the church in Jerusalem faces great persecution. Saul, one of the men present for the stoning of Stephen, enters the homes of believers, ravaging Jesus’ followers and imprisoning them.
Because of this oppression, believers scatter throughout Judea and Samaria. Through the death of Stephen and the movement of believers, God accomplishes His mission of spreading the message of Christ to the greater area despite Saul’s efforts.
One of Jesus’ disciples, Phillip, traveled to Samaria to proclaim the news of Christ. Seeing the abilities of Phillip and hearing the good news he shared, the people of Samaria pay attention to his message and respond with great joy.
After hearing the message of Phillip, many follow Jesus and are baptized. Among them is a man named Simon, who previously practiced magic and divination. Although he was able to perform miraculous acts, his abilities were not honorable to God. After seeing Phillip perform miracles with God’s authority, Simon believes the message of Jesus.
After hearing of Phillip’s great impact, Peter and John arrive in Samaria and pray for the Samaritans to receive the Holy Spirit. When Simon realizes that the disciples are able to invite the presence of the Holy Spirit, he desires that same ability. Believing he could purchase this ability, Simon offers the disciples silver in exchange for their power. Peter rebukes Simon, explaining that God’s power cannot be bought. Simon repents for his unreasonable request, realizing that God’s abilities are far greater than his own.
After his time in Samaria, Phillip is instructed by an angel to go towards Gaza. Along the road, Phillip encounters an Ethiopian court official traveling toward Jerusalem to worship. God’s Spirit encourages Phillip to talk to the man, who is reading the Scriptures. Phillip asks him if he understands what he is reading, but the man needs someone to explain the passages. He is reading Isaiah 53, which foretells the death of Jesus, comparing Him to a spotless lamb led to sacrifice, silent and obedient. The passage expresses that although Jesus was without sin, He took on the consequences of the sin of the world.
Phillip explains the passage, sharing the news of Jesus, and highlighting His fulfillment of Isaiah 53. Upon hearing about Jesus, the Ethiopian man immediately believes and is baptized by Phillip. After this encouraging encounter, God’s Spirit brings Phillip to Azotus, where he continues to preach the gospel.
ACTS 9
THE CONVERSION OF SAUL + START OF HIS MINISTRY
Traveling towards the city of Damascus, Saul continues to persecute and murder disciples of Jesus. As he approaches Damascus, a sudden light from heaven shines around Saul. Falling to the ground in fear, Saul hears a loud voice saying “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” Saul asks who is speaking. The voice responds to Saul, saying “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.” Unable to see from the great light, Saul enters the city and does not eat or drink for three days.
God speaks to a disciple named Ananias, instructing him to go and speak to Saul. Ananias knows that Saul persecutes Christians and is afraid to visit him, but God tells Ananias that Saul is a chosen instrument who will share the gospel with those who do not believe.
Ananias follows God’s instruction, finds Saul, and miraculously restores his sight. Saul is filled with the Holy Spirit and is baptized. God took the man who wanted to kill believers and turned him into a devout follower of Jesus!
Saul visits the synagogues, proclaiming the name of Jesus. Realizing that Saul once killed believers, the people are amazed by his conversion and see his faith as proof that Jesus is the Savior.
Many Jewish people hear Saul’s message at the synagogues and want him killed. The disciples lower Saul in a basket through an opening in the city walls by night to escape Damascus and avoid death.
When Saul arrives in Jerusalem, the disciples are afraid of him. Barnabas, a man who supports the disciples, vouches for Paul and supports his conversion. When the disciples hear of Saul’s message at the synagogues, they accept him and send him to Tarsus to preach the news of Jesus. The church grows throughout Judea, Samaria, and Galilee. Despite facing persecution, the church is at peace, comforted by the Holy Spirit.
Peter continues to travel and heal, first with a man named Aeneas, who had been paralyzed for eight years. After healing Aeneas through the power of Jesus, Peter raises a faithful woman named Tabitha from the dead. Through these acts, many believe in Jesus.
ACTS 10
PETER SHARES THE GOSPEL WITH GENTILES
God appears in a vision to a devout, faithful man named Cornelius. In this vision, God instructs Cornelius to find Peter in Joppa and have him return to Caesarea. Meanwhile, Peter also has a vision from God, which is repeated three times. In this vision, God shows Peter animals and tells Peter to eat. At first, Peter refuses because these animals are considered unclean, but God says that nothing He created is considered common or unclean.
Cornelius’s men find Peter and bring him to Caesarea. Peter explains his vision and knows that he is called to share the gospel with Gentiles, people who the Jews typically saw as unclean.
Through this vision, Peter gains understanding of and realizes that God does not show partiality or exclude people from the message of Jesus. Peter continues preaching, sharing the good news of the gospel with all people. While Peter is speaking, the Holy Spirit falls upon the Gentiles and they believe in Jesus and are baptized. This momentous event signified God's acceptance of the Gentiles into the community of believers because of their response through belief and baptism.
ACTS 11
THE GENTILES ARE INCLUDED IN THE FAITH + THE CHURCH GROWS IN ANTIOCH
Peter returns to Jerusalem, where news of the growing church has traveled quickly. Some of the Jewish leaders are concerned about the inclusion of Gentiles, those who were not previously Jewish, into the faith. Because they see circumcision as a sign of belief in God, the Jewish people are concerned about the faith of those who are not circumcised
Peter explains his recent vision, recalling the events of Acts 10 and explaining that God has welcomed outsiders to become His followers and receive the Holy Spirit. The Jewish men are amazed at Peter’s news and glorify God, seeing the ability to repent as a merciful gift from God.
The disciples who scattered after the death of Stephen reach the cities of Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch. Preaching of Jesus, many people hear the disciples and become believers. Barnabas and Saul, two advocates of the faith, both joined the disciples in Antioch for a year and taught a great number of people. In Antioch, the disciples and believers are called Christians for the first time (Acts 11:26).
ACTS 12
GOD RESCUES PETER FROM CAPTIVITY
King Herod kills James, a disciple and brother of John, with a sword because he is angered by his claims of Jesus. Seeing how the Jewish people are pleased with him for persecuting a Christian, King Herod decides to also imprison Peter.
As Peter is imprisoned, the church prays extensively for him. Before Herod can summon Peter, God sends an angel to free Peter of his chains and unlock the gate, allowing him to escape past the guards. Peter first thinks he is hallucinating or experiencing a vision, but soon realizes that God sent the angel to set him free!
After being freed, Peter goes to the home of friends in Jerusalem. When the friends recognize his voice outside the door, they cannot believe what they hear. Peter motions to them to remain quiet, hoping to not be seen or caught. Before departing, Peter explains how God rescued him from the prison and the Roman soldiers.
When King Herod realizes that Peter is missing, he is enraged and has the guards killed.
Later on, Herod meets with the people of Tyre and Sidon, who rely on Judea for food. Wanting to flatter King Herod, the people of Tyre and Sidon praise him and inflate his ego. They compare the words of King Herod to that of a god, saying that he is not simply a man. Because Herod was given glory instead of God, he is immediately struck down and killed.
Meanwhile, the Word of God is spreading, and the church continues to grow. Barnabas, Saul, and a man named John Mark return to Jerusalem after completing their service in Antioch.
ACTS 13
PAUL AND BARNABAS TRAVEL TO SHARE THE MESSAGE OF JESUS
Among all of the men who were prophets and teachers of God’s Word, Barnabas and Saul are commissioned by the Holy Spirit for a specific mission. Barnabas and Saul pray and fast before going to Salamis, where they will proclaim God’s Word to the Jewish people.
After traveling across the island, Saul and Barnabas meet a false prophet who opposes them and wants the local leadership to reject their message. Once the man suddenly becomes blind, following Saul’s prediction, the leaders are amazed and believe the message of Saul and Barnabas.
Throughout Acts, Saul is often referenced as Paul. Although God has previously changed the names of believers to express a conversion or new calling, Paul is simply the Greek version of the Hebrew name Saul. Because Paul / Saul is speaking to both a Jewish and Gentile audience, both names are used interchangeably.
Paul and Barnabas continue their journey and visit a synagogue in Pisidia. At this point, John Mark is no longer with Paul and Barnabas.
When the people ask Paul for encouragement, Paul shares the history of Israel, highlighting many ways that God has provided for His people. Beginning with God’s rescue of the Israelites from Egypt, spanning the time of the prophets and kings, and covering the lineage of David, Paul summarizes God’s establishment of the major Old Testament leaders.
Paul continues his message, emphasizing that everything God had previously accomplished was in preparation for the arrival of Jesus. Sharing the good news of the gospel message, Paul tells of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. Whoever believes in the death of Jesus as the payment for sins has become right in the eyes of God and is welcomed into His kingdom.
Quoting Psalm 2:7, Isaiah 55:3, and Psalm 16:10, Paul expresses a deep understanding of the Scriptures and explains how Jesus served as a fulfillment of the Old Testament Law and Prophets. Because of Jesus, forgiveness of sins and eternal life are available to all who believe. Referencing Habakkuk 1:5, Paul warns that many will scoff at the news of Jesus in disbelief.
Encouraged by Paul’s teaching, the people ask him to speak again the following week. On the next Sabbath day, almost the entire city gathers together to hear Paul and Barnabas share God’s Word. When the Jewish people see the crowds, they become jealous and speak against Paul and Barnabas, attempting to contradict their teaching.
Because Paul and Barnabas are rejected by the Jewish people, they share that the Gentiles, non-Jewish people, are also invited to follow Jesus. Upon hearing this, many Gentiles rejoice and glorify God, accepting the gift of eternal life. Paul and Barnabas proclaim they are on a mission to share God’s Word with everyone, not just the religious Jewish people. Frustrated, the Jewish people drive out Paul and Barnabas, leading them to travel towards Iconium.
ACTS 14
PAUL REMAINS STEADFAST WHILE FACING PERSECUTION
Paul and Barnabas arrive in Iconium and continue to preach the message of Jesus. Many people hear their teaching and believe, but there is still division among the people. Both Jewish and Greek people turn to Jesus, but others are angered by Paul and Barnabas and want to stone them. When they hear this, Paul and Barnabas leave Iconium and travel to Lystra.
While Paul and Barnabas are teaching in Lystra, Paul heals a man who was crippled since birth and unable to walk. Upon seeing this man walking, the people are stunned. Instead of turning to worship God, the people attempt to worship Paul and Barnabas and offer them sacrifices. Paul and Barnabas restrain the people, reminding them that they are only men and not to be worshiped—they are simply messengers of God, not gods themselves.
Still angry with the message of Paul, some of the Jewish people from Antioch and Iconium travel to Lystra and turn the adoring crowd against him. Instead of worshiping him, now the people want to kill him!
The people stone Paul and drag his body out of the city. Although he was battered, Paul was not dead, as they thought. As the disciples gather around him, he rises and continues to preach the message of Jesus! Giving strength to the disciples, Paul encourages them to remain committed to the faith during times of tribulation.
After their many travels, Paul and Barnabas return to Antioch in Syria. When they arrive, they gather the church together and marvel at all God has done in the lives of the Gentile believers.
ACTS 15
JAMES REMOVES BARRIERS FOR GENTILES TURNING TOWARDS GOD
Instead of teaching that salvation comes through faith in Jesus alone, some of the disciples in Jerusalem continue to teach that men must be circumcised before becoming followers of Jesus. Because this was a Jewish custom for centuries, the disciples had a hard time separating the Law of Moses from the new commandments of Jesus.
Paul and Barnabas debate with the disciples, advocating for faith alone, saying that circumcision is no longer required. To discuss this matter further, Paul and Barnabas go before the church in Jerusalem. The Pharisees, who highly value religious law, see circumcision as a necessary step in conversion. For Gentiles, or non-Jewish people, to follow Jesus, the Pharisees want them to first become Jewish before becoming Christians. Peter speaks up, agreeing with Paul and Barnabas that this is an unnecessary process.
Peter boldly claims that through belief in Jesus, the Gentiles are no different from the Jewish people. Because of the work of the Holy Spirit, there is no distinction between them, both groups of people are cleansed and made new by their faith. Paul and Barnabas also share how God is active and present among the Gentiles. After hearing this, the council falls silent in amazement.
James speaks up, quoting the Prophet Amos, remembering God’s promise to reach the Gentiles through the Savior (Amos 9:11-12). Because of this, James argues that they should not make it difficult for those who are turning to Christ and remove the barrier of circumcision. Instead, James proposes they write a letter to the new believers explaining some basic teachings of the faith, including removing idols, maintaining sexual integrity, and respecting the food laws of the Jewish people.
The council agrees with James’s proposal to write a letter of clarification to the Gentiles. The church appoints two men, Judas and Silas, to accompany Paul and Barnabas in delivering the message. With the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the church decides not to place additional burdens on those who want to follow Christ. Upon receiving the letter, the people rejoice and accept the news with gladness.
After some time in Antioch, Paul and Barnabas decide to return to their previous places of travel to follow up with the new believers. Barnabas wants John Mark to travel alongside them, but Paul strongly disagrees. Going their separate ways, Barnabas sails to Cyprus with Mark, and Paul chooses Silas to accompany him to Syria. Despite the split between Paul and Barnabas, God uses their division to multiply the message of Jesus.
ACTS 16
PAUL + SILUS FACE OPPOSITION ALONG THEIR JOURNEY IN PHILIPPI
Paul and Silas arrive in Lystra, where they meet a highly regarded man named Timothy. Timothy is half-Jewish and half-Greek. Paul wants to recruit Timothy to join their mission, but first has him circumcised so he wouldn’t lose influence among the Jewish people they are hoping to reach. As they travel, they share the news that the Gentiles can become followers of Jesus through faith alone. The people gladly accept this news, and the church continues to grow in strength and numbers.
Paul, Silas, and Timothy travel through Phrygia and Galatia. The Holy Spirit leads their travels and prevents them from visiting certain areas at the time. Instead of going towards Asia, Paul receives a vision to preach to the people of Macedonia. Following God’s direction, they travel towards Europe to speak in Macedonia.
While visiting the Roman city of Philippi, Paul, Silas, and Timothy are met by a group of women. One of the women, Lydia, hears the men praying and God gives her a heart of understanding. Lydia trusts in God, believes in Jesus, and is baptized. Lydia shares the news with her household and generously welcomes the disciples into her home.
As Paul and Silas are going to pray, they encounter a psychic who practices fortune telling and divination. Because she is a slave, she relies on evil practices as her source of financial well-being. Paul speaks to her and removes the unclean spirit within her. The owners of the slave girl become angry and blame Paul and Silas for causing disruption. The Roman leaders sentence them to be beaten and imprisoned. Paul and Silas are shackled within the inner prison and kept under strict security.
Remaining faithful despite their circumstances, Paul and Silas spend their time in prison praying and singing hymns to God. Suddenly there is a great earthquake and immediately the prison doors are opened, freeing all of the prisoners.
Realizing he would be killed for the prisoners’ escape, one of the prison guards takes out his sword, preparing to kill himself. Stopping him before this could happen, Paul calls out to the guard. Paul shares the message of Jesus with the prison guard, instructing him to believe in Jesus for salvation. The prison guard believes and is baptized immediately!
The prison guard advocates for Paul and Silas and gets permission for them to leave the prison. When the officers see that Paul and Silas are Roman citizens, they apologize and escort them from the prison. After being freed, they visit Lydia before continuing on their mission.
ACTS 17
PAUL AND SILAS VISIT THESSALONICA + ATHENS ON THEIR MISSION
Paul and Silas travel to Thessalonica, where they speak in synagogues sharing the news of Jesus. Using the Scriptures, Paul attempts to explain the gospel and reason with the Jewish people. Some of them, both men and women, respond well to Paul’s message and believe, while others find Paul’s message offensive. The people create an uproar and attack the home of a man named Jason.
Hearing talk of a new king named Jesus, the people under the Roman empire see the followers of Jesus as a threat to Caesar. Taking money as bail from Jason and the disciples, the leaders of Thessalonica let them go while they investigate the charges.
Once Paul and Silas are freed, they leave Thessalonica in the middle of the night. When they arrive in Berea, Paul and Silas take refuge in a Jewish synagogue. The people of Berea are far more welcoming and receive the teachings of Paul and Silas with eagerness. Many of them believe, including a group of influential Greek women.
When the people of Thessalonica hear that Paul is preaching in Berea, they are angry and cause a stir among the people. Silas and Timothy remain in Berea, but Paul leaves to prevent further violence. Later, Paul writes two letters (1 and 2 Thessalonians) to the church in Thessalonica encouraging them to remain steadfast in their faith despite persecution.
When Paul arrives in Athens, he calls for Timothy and Silas to join him as soon as possible. Paul realizes that the people of Athens worship a great variety of idols, but are still interested in what Paul is teaching. Paul notices an inscription on one of the altars dedicated to an unknown god. Paul enlightens the people of Athens, telling them of the God who created them. Paul calls them to repent and place their faith in the resurrection of Jesus. Upon hearing Paul’s teaching, some of the people mock the idea of the resurrection, but others believe.
ACTS 18
PAUL VISITS THE CITIES OF CORINTH, GALATIA, + EPHESUS
Paul continues traveling and goes to the city of Corinth, located in south-central Greece. When he arrives, he meets a couple named Aquila and Priscilla, who fled Rome after the Roman Emperor commanded all of the Jewish people to leave Rome. Because they are both tentmakers by trade, Paul works closely with Aquila and Priscilla. Each week, Paul would speak at the synagogue and tell people about the death and resurrection of Jesus.
When Silas and Timothy arrive in Corinth, Paul is being rejected by the Jewish people. Although the majority of people oppose Paul’s message, one of the synagogue leaders believes in Jesus and is baptized. After this, Paul receives a vision from God, saying “Do not be afraid, but go on speaking and do not be silent.” God assures Paul that He is with him and will protect him from harm because God knows many people in Corinth will become believers. Paul follows God’s instructions and remains in Corinth for eighteen months.
Once Paul leaves Corinth, he sets sail towards Syria with Priscilla and Aquila. When Paul reaches the city of Ephesus, he speaks at the synagogue and the people want him to stay with them longer. Paul declines and continues traveling towards Caesarea. After spending some time there, he departs and goes throughout the region of Galatia and Phrygia, strengthening all the disciples and followers of Jesus.
Many of these cities are the recipients of Paul’s letters, including Corinthians, Galatians, and Ephesians to the cities of Corinth, Galatia, and Ephesus.
While they were in Ephesus, Priscilla and Aquila heard a man named Apollos preaching about Jesus as the Savior. Although he only knew of John the Baptist, the predecessor who prepared the way for Jesus, he spoke boldly with knowledge of the Scriptures. Priscilla and Aquila inform him on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus and Apollos becomes a great advocate of the gospel of Jesus.
ACTS 19
BY TEACHING IN EPHESUS, PAUL SPREADS THE GOSPEL THROUGHOUT ASIA
While Paul is in Ephesus, he meets some disciples who heard the news of the coming Savior through John the Baptist. Upon hearing John’s message, paving the way for Jesus, they were baptized, but because they did not know of Jesus’ arrival, they were not yet filled with the Holy Spirit. Paul shares the news of Jesus with the disciples, and they are baptized and receive the Holy Spirit.
Remaining in Ephesus for three months, Paul speaks about the kingdom of God until the people become stubborn with unbelief. Paul retreats from the synagogues and spends two years speaking in a lecture hall. Because Ephesus is a central place of trade, it serves as a hub for travelers from Asia. Because of his preaching, the gospel spreads throughout Asia, and churches are founded in the cities of Hierapolis, Laodicea, and Colossae.
God continues doing extraordinary miracles through Paul. Even Paul’s handkerchiefs and aprons are given to the sick to heal diseases and cast out spirits! Some of the Jewish priests, who do not believe in Jesus, attempt to speak the name of Jesus over those with evil spirits. Upon doing this, they encounter an evil spirit and become afraid. In response, they burn their books about magic and divination. Despite their misuse of Jesus’ name, the news of Jesus as the Savior continues to increase and prevail throughout the city.
While Paul is first in Asia, there is little disturbance surrounding his teaching and the new believers. After some time, a silversmith named Demetrius realizes that businesses selling man-made idols are receiving less traffic. Demetrius is concerned that Artemis, the goddess who is worshiped throughout Asia, is being disregarded.
Noticing the change throughout Asia, caused by the followers of Jesus, Demetrius revolts. Demetrius causes a stir among the people and forms an angry mob, creating great confusion.
Although the crowd is not enthused with Paul’s teaching, they cannot find anything deliberately sacrilegious or blasphemous about his message and cannot arrest him.
ACTS 20
PAUL’S UNWAVERING COMMITMENT TO HIS MISSION
Paul continues in his travels, going through Macedonia towards Greece. He remains there for three months, but the Jewish people plot against him, leading to his return to Macedonia. Accompanying Paul, a group of men travel with him as his students and companions.
Late into the night, Paul stays up speaking to a group of men. One of the men, Eutychus, falls asleep sitting on a windowsill and falls three stories to the ground. Although he was declared dead, Paul proclaims that there was still life in Eutychus, and he lived! Eager to continue his journey, Paul begins walking towards Jerusalem.
While Paul visits with the elders in Ephesus, he recalls his ministry and service to the Ephesians. Paul does not resist sharing anything profitable to the believers in Ephesus, sharing the good news of Jesus with both Jewish and Gentile people. Paul explains that he is headed towards Jerusalem and is not sure what will happen to him there, as many in Jerusalem are angered by his preaching. Paul is aware that both imprisonment and affliction await him in Jerusalem. Despite the challenges ahead, Paul declares his mission is to finish what God has set before him, the task of sharing the gospel.
Paul knows that this will be his last time seeing the Ephesians and encourages them to remain steadfast in their faith despite persecution. Trusting the words of Jesus, Paul believes that he is more blessed by giving than receiving. The elders of Ephesus pray for Paul and weep for him, mourning the loss of their close relationship, knowing they will not see him again.
Acts 20:28 “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.”