Acts 1

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Acts 1:1-11

5 questions as we begin a new sermon series through the book of Acts:

1. What is the role of the book of Acts in the NT and in the Bible?

The book of Acts introduces us to people whose lives are radically transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit who in turn share this good news with others so that their lives are similarly transformed.

2. What is the structure of the story of the book of Acts?

There are three waves of expansion: The church in Jerusalem (Acts 1-7), the church in Judea and Samaria (Acts 8-12), the church to the ends of the earth (Acts 13-28).

3. Who wrote the book of Acts?

Dr. Luke (Colossians 4:14), who wrote the Gospel of Luke

He enters the story himself in Acts 16:11 when he begins saying "we."

4. How does the author begin volume 2 of his story of Jesus?

It's a description of the 40 days between the resurrection and ascension of Jesus.

The primary topic of conversation is the Kingdom of God. What is the Kingdom of God? It's a term that is used to describe human life in relationship to their Creator as God intended it to be. 

It is a Trinitarian conversation. Jesus the Son is teaching in the power of the Holy Spirit, who comes from God the Father.

5. How does Jesus call his followers to respond?

Wait!
Acts 1:4-5: Wait for the gift of the Holy Spirit. God's work in this world cannot be accomplished simply by human effort.

Wonder! 
Deuteronomy 29:29: "The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things that are revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this law" (ESV). There are some things that are not for us to know. We stand in faith upon that which has been revealed to us and in wonder at those things that haven't, knowing that God has all things under his control.

Witness! 
Acts 1:8: If you are a follower of Jesus, you are a witness to others of the transforming power and love of Jesus.

Discussion Questions:

1. What goals and hopes do you have for 2021 that, in order to reach those goals and hopes, you for sure need the power of the Holy Spirit? 
2. What are some of the things that you wish you knew about God and his word but that simply haven't been revealed to us yet? How do those "secret things" inspire us to wonder and worship?
3. What are some of your personal testimonies to Jesus's power and love in your life? Who is someone you know who could benefit from hearing that testimony?