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

The Acts of the Apostles is a pivotal book in the history of the Christian church. It commences with both the finished and the unfinished work of Christ. The opening verses record Christ’s ascension, which was possible only because of His resurrection, and the subsequent advance of the church.

The book is pivotal for various reasons. The book of Acts deals with primitive Christianity—Christianity in its purist form. Furthermore, Acts is important because it reveals that there is nothing too hard for the Lord. This book is set against a backdrop of great hostility and persecution.

The Herods and the Neros of this world ruled with rods of iron, and first-century Christianity was not welcomed. Judaism was so embedded in the psyche of the people that only the power of God could dislodge it. The Jews looked upon the cross as a stumbling block and the Greek lovers of wisdom looked upon it as foolishness, but the book of Acts confirms the invincibility of God to accomplish His own purpose.

Moreover, Acts sets forth the principles which lie behind the progress of the church. This book demonstrates that God uses means and men in the advancement of His kingdom. It shows me that He can also use me. Reading Acts thrills my heart, fires my soul, and inspires me to look for greater things in the work of God. It tells me that with God all things are possible. It confirms my love for the church that Christ is building, the church against which the gates of hell cannot prevail. Reading Acts tells me what Jesus began to do!