Introduction to Acts: Acts of the Holy Spirit

The Placement in the Canon

Between the Gospels and the Epistles

Connection/LinkBetween Life of Jesus and that of Church

Demonstrates that Gospels serve as background for all

Acts provides the platform for all the epistles

Intro to Acts

AuthorLuke

Second volume – the Gospel of Luke being first volume

Date80-90 AD

Shortly after the Gospel of Luke

DestinationTheophilus – lover of God• Cousin of Domitian?

PurposeNarrative of history• Preserve the background of the NT church

Explanation of the Spirit• Describes the practical outworking of the

Spirit

Theme

The Gospel overcomes all barriers.

The Spirit empowers for effectiveness and witness.

ThemesWorld Mission

Providence of God

Power of the Spirit

Inclusive Gospel

Importance of Faithful Witness

Triumph of Gospel

Barriers Crossed

Geographical Barrier

Social Barrier

Racial Barrier

Sexual Barrier

Cultural Barrier