Jim Gallagher

Acts 1:1
“The former account I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach, . . .”

The book of Acts is a sequel to the Gospel account, written by Luke. He declares, in this opening verse, the purpose for writing the Gospel account and the book of Acts. He states that the Gospel records what Jesus began to do; and the book of Acts, what He continues to do. Since Jesus is alive from the dead, the story of the Bible is a continuing one. John closed his Gospel account declaring that all the books in the world could not hold all that Jesus did for humanity. As amazing as it may seem, Jesus is not finished. The resurrection is not the end of the story. It is the transition point where the work of Jesus transfers from being accomplished outwardly through His life on earth, to the inward working of His Spirit in the life of all who believe.

Another thing that strikes me about Luke’s statement, is that he personally had so much to say. He is looking back to what Jesus has done, and looking forward to what Jesus will do. I think that is a great way to live. It would be wise for each of us to chronicle the things Jesus has done for us. Perhaps taking the time to make a list of all the things that have been accomplished as a result of your positive response to the Gospel message. In Ephesians, Chapter 1, Paul records that Jesus chose us, predestined us, adopted us, accepted us, redeemed us, forgave us, is coming back for us, and has filled us with His Spirit to guarantee that we belong to Him. Paul also recognized that “He who had begun a good work in Him would complete it” (Philippians 1:6).

Take some time to reflect on all that Jesus has done for you, and look forward with expectation to the things He still desires to accomplish. It may be that He will turn another fisherman into the world’s greatest fisher of men.

Pastor Jim

Questions for Acts 1

1. How many days was Jesus seen after His resurrection?
2. In verse 4, the disciples were commanded by Jesus not to depart from Jerusalem, but to “wait for the Promise of the Father”. What promise were they waiting for?
3. After receiving ________ from the Holy Spirit, what were they instructed to do?
4. Verse 11 states this same Jesus will return in like manner. How often have you heard other ways that Christ will return?
5. The disciples, the women, Mary the mother of Jesus and His brothers were “all in one accord in prayer & supplication”. What does it mean to you to “be in one accord”?
6. Peter explains the fall of Judas and quotes Psalm 69:25. The disciples come to an agreement to replace Judas with Matthias. How did they come to the conclusion to pick Matthias?

Old Testament:
Deuteronomy 25- Forty Lashes
Deuteronomy 26- A Great Nation