As Luke continues the account of the early church and the spread of the gospel to the ends of the earth, he records this account of the ministry of Paul and Barnabas; their gospel preaching and its effects in the cities of Iconium, Lystra and Derbe. The work of God continues and grows as they faithful declare the glories of Jesus, even as the message is taylored to the Gentile audience (15-18). Throughout the enduring message of the gospel powerfully impacts those confronted by it.
Acts is a unique book in our New Testament, because it is the only book of history that we are given. As Luke writes, a second edition to his gospel, he continues with two vital themes – first, that Jesus offers salvation to men and second, that this work – the mission is accomplished – in the power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus had already instructed his disciples about the Holy Spirit and his ongoing ministry
to them and all who would come to believe in Jesus. Despite the obvious
focus on the ministry of the Holy Spirit in Acts, this book is about Jesus. Throughout Acts, Jesus is described as Lord (the most common title for Jesus in Acts), Jesus (67x), Christ (25x), Servant, Holy One, Just One, a Prophet like Moses, Savior, Son of God, Son of Man, Author of Life, Judge, Man and God. There is absolutely no question that Acts is the continuing account of all that Jesus began to do and to teach as
presented in the gospel of Luke. The outline of Acts is very straightforward: Witnesses in Jerusalem (1-7), Witnesses in Judaea &
Samaria (8-12), and Witnesses to the ends of the earth (13-28). Luke
focuses throughout on this truth: You will receive power from the Holy
Spirit and be my witnesses to the ends of the earth. May God strengthen
us to be effective witnesses for Jesus.
Graceway Church of Michiana exists in South Bend, IN for the purpose
of Exalting our great God and Savior, Edifying and Encouraging believers
and Engaging our Community. Graceway Church is committed to being a God Exalting, Christ Centered, Spirit Motivated, Word Focused local body of Believers!
