Bible Studies

Divine Privilege, Consequence, and Purpose

• Genesis 2:2-13, 15-17; 3:17-19
• Ephesians 4:18

Receiving and Using Power (Acts 1:1-11)

• Bridges the 40 days after the ressurection and the ascension of Christ.
• Bridges the end of the Gospels and the beginning of the work transition to the Disciples/Apostles > Church.

Key Verses

• Acts 1:3; 6:7-8
• Revelations 21:2-3
• Genesis 2:5

The First Prayer Meeting (Acts 1:12-14)

• Instructions from Christ (1:4) to wait and pray
• Included: 1) the remaining disciples, 2) women, 3) Mary, the mother of Christ, and 4) Christ's brothers (John 7:5; 1 Corinthians 15;7)

The First Church Conference (Acts 1:15-26)

• The focus of the agenda was to appoint a new disciple or apostle, as they are now called. This new term is a transitional continuation of the calling of the original twelve. (Praying/Seeking Guidane/Organization)
• vs 16-17. The Judas Paradox (Psalm 41:9)
• vs 18-20. The Death and Legacy of Judas (Matthew 27:3-8; Psalm 69:25, 109:8)
• vs 21-25. The selection criteria and process for replacing Judas (Biblical Criteria, Examining Options, Prayer for Wisdom and Guidance, Decision)
• vs 21-22. The selection pool of followers (Mark 1:9-11)
• vs 26. Disciples (Followers/Learners) > Apostles (Messenger/Missionary) = Change of Mission

Pentacost and Provision (Acts 2:1-41; Joel 2)

• The promised Holy Ghost/Holy Spirit/Comforor arrives with the promised power during the Feast of Weeks at the conclusion of the Passover (Deuteronomy 16:16)
• God fearing Jews (Galileans and others) (vs 5-7)
• Peter's Address (vs 14-37) was given to an international audience and resulted in a harvest of new believers.
• Old Testament/New Testament fulfillment of prophecy (Luke 3:16; Joel 2:28-29)
• Early proclamation and understanding of the Kingdom of Heaven (vs 40)

Chapter 2:1-41 by the Verses

• v1. Pentecost occurred 50 days after Passover (also called the Feast of Weeks) and 40 days after the Resurrection of Christ.
• vs 2-4. God's use of earthly elements (fire and wind). Luke 3:16, Joel 2:28-30 is Prophecy fulfilled. Fire symbolizes the purifying and prompting presence of God (Exodus 19:16-18; 1 Kings 18:22-40). Wind symbolizes facilitation (1 Kings 19:10-13)
• vs 4-11. The Power of the Holy Spirit manifesting (Acts 1:8)
• vs 12-14. When curiosity presents opportunity (1 Peter 3:15)
• vs 14-40. Old Testament prophesies entirely fufilled by Christ (vs14-21); Jesis is the Messiah (vs 25- 36); Risen Christ with the Power to change lives (vs 37-40)

A New People for a New Kingdom

A New Kind of Community (Acts 2:42-47 /4:32-38)

• Acts 2:42-47 and 4:32-38 provide insight to the change in culture and values to the new group of believers (not yet called the Christians). This culture and value-change centers around their shared lives and the exponential rate by which they grew in numbers.
• The community of believers cultivated a set of practices and priorities that were in stark contrast to the general society, which demonstrations "life in the Kingdom." Contrast and compare this with Acts 1:6-7.

Emphasis on Generosity (Acts 2:45 / 4:34-35)

• While there is no specific mention of any "economic system," it is imperative to understand that there was no lack - because of generosity.
• There were believers from across the economic/affluence and influence spectrum that liquidated their values from time to time (Acts 4:34, as the need arose, Acts 2:45 / 4:35)
• The work of generosity did not eliminate the wealthy, but it eliminated need and perhaps the attitude of have/have nots, which is notced by Paul in 1 Corinthians 11:17-22, 27-33.

Holy Spirit Derived Generosity (Acts 2:45 / 3:1-10 / 4:32-28 / 9:1-31)

• The community changed as the cause/effect of the manifestation of the Holy Ghost.
• Common manifestation in giving, overlooked because of visions, tongues, and healings. This scripture shows the common act of giving and hospitality is a magnificent gift that the Holy Spirit has to offer.
• All gifts, whether financial or supernatural, are to be used for the sake of others (Acts 3:1-10)
• Social Resources have value in God's Economy (Barnabas - Acts 4:32-38 / 9:1-31; Lydia - Acts 16:11-15)

Chapters 5-7

Community of Believers at Work (Overview)

• As we explore these chapters during this lesson, we will examine both the internal and external challenges facing the early church.
• Inside the church was dishonesty (6:1-7). Outside the church was pressure from persecution.
• While church leaders were cautious and attentive in handling the internal issues, they were limited in the prevention of external factors.
• We will take away from this lesson the committment that they had with keeping first things first - spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ

Community of Believers on the "Front Line"

• When resources are shared and relationships cultivated, a Christian community becomes magnetic. People are drawn to Christ as the body of believers use their power and posessions for the good of others. The difference between God's Kingdom and the world's kingdom is obvious - make the Kingdom of Heaven compelling to believers and strangers alike. (The immediate result of their generosity and relationship is ordained by God and documented in Acts 2:47 and Acts 6:7.)
• Yet the Acts of the Apostles take place in the earthly reality of genuine commuity, therefore the book does not gloss over the reality of sin. Human greed and selfishness are ever-present threats to the health of any local body...no exception.

First Case Study: Ananias and Sapphira (5:3-11)

• Pretended to share their resources with the community
• Lies resulted in death

Second Case Study: Volutary resolution of imbalanced resurces (5:12-16)

• Needs met
• All members honored; not embarrased or demeaned

Conclusion from the Case Studies

• Living out God's Kingdom may clash with prevailing norms of the society at large.
• Swift remediation returns the community to effectiveness.

Continuing Power of the Church (Acts 5:12-16)

• Power Shown Through Miracles and Unity - Verse 12 is a reflection of the manifestation of the power of prayer in Acts 4:29-30. Prayers were answered and remarkable signs and wonders continued. Additionally, we see the value of being on one accord in the presence of, and as vessels for, the Holy Spirit. This is a display of the power of the Holy Spirit; putting selfish hearts and stubborn minds together for His purpose and glory.
• Reputation and Growth (verses 13-14) - The community of believers had a reputation of integrity and everyone knew that there was seriousness with following Christ. The instance of Ananias and Sapphira would reduce the level of casual commitment. Nevertheless, the church kept growing. New believers were "added to the Lord."
• Expectations of Miracles and Wonders (verses 15-16) - The power was not in Peter's shadow, but in the annointing of the Holy Ghost. This is proof that there is no barrier when we believe God as a healer (Acts 3:12-16; Luke 8:44). Here we see the contrast and impact of God's power on display strike down (Annias/Sapphira) and lift up in healing, signs, and wonders. The news of what is going on in Jerusalem brings others into the city (Acts 1:8) while the Apostles don't leave the city (Acts 8:1, 12:1-2).

Developing a Pattern of Persecution (Acts 5:17-26)

• Arrest and Imprisonment (verses 17-18) - Acts 4:3-22 was the initial imprisonment of the apostles, but there would be a developing pattern.
• Angelic Intervention (verses 19-20) - God dispatches angels for a release (Hebrews 1:14). The angel may not have been easily recognizable (Luke 24:3-7; Hebrews 13:2). Their rescue was more than God flexing; it was divine appointment for purpose associated with "Go stand in the temple and speak to the people all the works of this life." Not all of the apostles were miraculously delivered from final earthly peril, but all followed the divine purpose.
• Resumed Work and Return to Prison (verses 21-26) - The apostles acted in obedience and boldness by adhering to the direction of the Angel: preaching/teaching in the most public place in the city, after divine deliverance and threat of persecution. The religious leaders wondered what they were dealing with, and God's power was evident and at work among the followers of Christ. God's work will continue. The apostles were arrested again. They may have thought that God would keep them from being arrested again, but...they were also aware of deliverance. The apostles did not appeal for protection or defense from other believers and growing community. They trusted God alone. The religious leaders feared the wrath of the people but dismissed the power of God.

Church Problems  (Acts 6:1-7)

• Challenges that come with growth - Verse 1: Conflict between Hebrew Christians and Greek Christians; Perceptions of Favoritism; Attempts of Division; Traditional and cultural responsibilities of an towards widows (1 Timonth 5: 3-16); Distractions.
• Appointment of the Table Servers / Nomination of the Perons - Verses 2-4: Appointment by the Apostles / Nominations by the Congregation - Understanding the Role and Purpose (1 Corinthians 12; 1 Timothy 3:7-8; Acts 1:14).
• Selection of Table Servers and Conflict Resolution - Verses 5-7 (John 13:1-5): Conflict Resolved by addressing the problem God's Way; All 7 Appointees had Greek names and therefore, were likely Hellenist/Grecians; Designated/Consecrated by the apostles to work (business) with the people (Numbers 8:10; Numbers 27:23; Deuteronomy 34:9; 1 Timothy 4:14); Context of "Deacon" (1 Timothy 3:8-13); Returning to the priority (Acts 12:14; 19:20; 21:20)

The Work of Serving

Overview and Introduction

1) Work and Identity - Acts 8-12

In these chapters, the community of believers, being led by the Holy Spirit transcend cultural barriers to bring the gospel of Jesus Christ to non-Jews.

There are a variety of people who encounter the Kingdom of Heaven in a variety of places.

Luke, the author of Acts, is not primarily concerned with the occupation. But he uses the occupations of each asa  foreshadow of their direction - towards or away from the Kingdom.

• Simon, a sorcerer - Acts 8:9-24
• An Ethiopian eunuch - Acts 8:27-28
• Tabitha, a garment maker - Acts 9:36-43
• Cornelius, a Roman Centurion - Acts 10:1-2

Towards the Kingdom

• Uses fruits of their labor to serve others - Generosity of Cornelius - Acts 10:4, 24

Away from the Kingdom

• Uses fruits of their labor to serve self and personal gain - Money ot achieve power - Acts 8:18-19

2) Community and Discernment of Vocation - Acts 13:1-3

• Discernment - the ability to judge well (Proverbs 14:12); under the guidance of the Holy Spirit
• The church in Antioch (now called Christians) work together as a community to discern the Holy Spirit's leading.
• This diverse group identify the work that Paul and Barnabas do for the Kingdom.
• Communal discernment is introduced here.

3) Leadership and Decision Making - Acts 11 and 15

• In the community, important decisions are made by the group as a whole, relying on equal access to the guidance of the Holy Spirit AND Scripture.
• Example Acts - 11:2, 17-18; Acts 15:2, 12-18

Something Good from Something Bad

Acts 8:1-17

1) Saul's Persecution of the Church (vs. 1-4)

Persecution and Dispersion

• Vs. 1: Saul’s consent reflects both his actions and attitude towards the new community of believers. While tempted to be hard on Saul, we should note that according to his religious beliefs, he believed himself to be both right and justified in his actions (Phil 3:6, I Cor 15:9, Acts 26:11) [Stephen's death was the impetus of the beginning of the great commission and apostolic action (Matthew 28:16-20)]
• Vs. 2: Indicates that there were some Jewish leadership that did not agree with the actions.
• Vs. 3-4: Saul’s zeal (Acts 9:1, 22:4, 26:10) and subsequent good that comes from the bad (Acts 1:8)

2) Phillip and the Samaritans - (vs. 5-17)

Vs. 5-8

About Phillip (Acts 6:5, 8:1) - He preached Christ.

About the relationship between Jews and Samaritans

• Hate (Luke 9:51-56)
• Mutual distrust (John 4; Luke 10:25-37)
• Jesus' planting action, produces a harvest (John 4:1-26)

Vs. 9-13 - The Belief of Simon the Sorcerer

• Simon was considered in the class of the magi – Matt 2:1
• Verses 9-13 indicate true belief, later versus provide questions

Vs. 14-17 – The Gift of the Holy Spirit to the Samaritans

• Matt 16:19 is now clear to Peter and John
• The power is transferred by the laying of hands (Acts 9:17; I Tim 4:14; 2 Tim 1:6)
• The Holy Spirit is confirmed, perhaps by the signs in I Cor. 12:7-10

Deal or No Deal

Acts 8:18-25

2) Phillip and the Samaritans (con't.) - (vs. 18-25)

vs 18-19 - The Selfishness of Simon

• Impressed by the acts of Peter and John
• Thought "everything" as a price - even the Hoy Spirit (viewed the Hoy Spirit as an "it" rather than a Person)
• No desire for the Holy Spirity for himself, only to impart in others at his will for his gain

vs 20-23 - Apostolic Response

Justifiable rebuke by Peter

• Isaiah 55:1 describes the impartation of God's gifts. 
• What we receive from God will affect what we do with our money; but we can't purchase the gifts of God with money.

The Fruit of Simon's Heart

Simon's outward evidence of conversion - outward observation. 

• Simon expressed belief, was received as a follower and was baptized (vs 13); attended gatherings with other believers (vs 18)
• Peter's rebuke of Simon may be along the same line as Jesus' rebuke of Peter (John 13:8). Peter does not explicitly question Simon's salvation, but implicitly questions his understanding of the will of God.
• Call to Repentance; Prayer; Righteousness

Simon's Reply (vs 24-25) and Conclusion in Samaria

• "Pray for me" - humility or the lack thereof was an obstacle in Simon's understanding of faith. (1 Chronicles 7:14)
• Main concerns were about consequences of actions, not condition of his heart
• Repentance is personal and cannot be done through intercessory means.
• Peter and John, while successful in Samaria, returned back to Jerusalem

Being Led by the Spirit - Acts 8:26-40

3) Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch (vs 26-40)

vs 29-31: An Invitation to an Explanation

• The Spirit said to Philip: Here we see the concept of “holy boldness” in Philip’s willingness to approach the chariot (assumingly part of a larger entourage) and speak to the eunuch.  But the Holy Spirit had directed
• Heard him reading the prophet Isaiah: Reading aloud was a common practice of the time, but the reading of Isaiah was Philip’s confirmation and opportunity.  God had arranged this meeting…which is an example of how God provides opportunity for evangelism.  Philip was directed through the circumstance that God had arranged.  As God opens doors (opportunity) we must be ready (preparation)
• Do you understand what you are reading? – It was good for the eunuch to read, but no benefit without understanding (Prov. 4:1-7).  Through Philip, God brought understanding to the eunuch.  
• How can I, unless someone guides me? – Notice how the eunuch took no offense, but asked a question that included an invitation (Jas 4:2-3).

vs 32-35: Preaching Jesus from Isaiah

• He was led as sheep to the slaughter: The eunuch was reading the about the prophecy (now fulfilled) of the sacrificial and sin bearing work of the Messiah.
• I ask you, of whom does the prophet say this, of himself or of some other man? Given the posture of Judaism, Isa 53:7-8 had multiple meanings.
• Beginning at this Scripture: Philip taught from Isaiah, but did not confine himself there.  The OT is the promise…and Philip was a witness of the promise fulfilled.  The OT leads to Jesus (Matt 5:17).  
• Preached Jesus to him: Philip preaching likely consisted of the who Jesus was (like a lamb…preached Jesus) and what he has done for us (He was led as a sheep to the slaughter).  Explaining who Jesus is and what He has done for us is the essence of the gospel. Philip preached Christ Samaria (Acts 8:5).  Same message – different audience.

vs 36-38: Belief then Baptism

• The eunuch said: The eunuch was ready to respond to the gospel. This is the work of the Holy Spirit.
• See, here is water. What hinders me from being baptized? This is the outward evidence that the eunuch believed and desired to publically declare his belief (Matt 10:31-33).
• If you believe with all your heart, you may: Philip insisted in the personal confession and responsibility of belief (Romans 10:9).  An intellectual knowledge of God must be the outcome of a spiritual realization, belief and commitment. Knowing that Christ died for our sins, must be accompanied with belief and acceptance.  
• I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God: This is the confession of faith that is essential for anyone who will come to God (Rom 10:10). - We must believe in the Person of Jesus, in all that He is and has done as Christ. - We must believe that He is the Divine Son and that He is the Son of God sent to accomplish the salvation of all those who will believe with all their hearts.

vs 39-40: Belief then Baptism

The Spirit of the Lord caught Philip away….: The Holy Spirit carried Philip away and the eunuch came out of the water.  Philip would be carried to a former Philistine city.

• While an interesting event – similar events are described in John 6:15-21 and …I Thess 4:15-18.

He went away rejoicing: The eunuch’s concern was not in the whereabouts of Philip, but in his newfound faith and salvation in God.

Passing through, he preached in all the cities till he came to Caesarea:

• Acts 1:8
• Acts 21:8