Acts – read and compare multiple versions of the Bible

Introduction

authorship, audience, history

The Book of Acts (sometimes called “The Acts of the Apostles”) was written by Luke, a physician and close companion of the Apostle Paul, who also authored The Gospel of Luke. Both books are addressed to Theophilus (; ), a name meaning “lover of God,” likely representing both an individual and the broader early Christian audience seeking to understand the foundations of their faith.

Acts serves as a crucial historical link between the Gospels and the rest of the New Testament, detailing how the Christian faith expanded from Jerusalem to the wider Roman world. In these early days, followers of Jesus referred to themselves as The Church/Assembly, but were referred to as The Way and eventually Christians. (, )

Theme

living in relationship with God and to His glory

Acts reveals God’s sovereign plan to expand His kingdom through The Church. God the Father is seen orchestrating events, directing apostles, and opening doors for the Gospel (i.e., The Victorious News of Christ) in unlikely places. The Holy Spirit is prominently featured as the driving force of guidance, empowerment, and bold proclamation, working through believers to perform miracles and preach the truth. The Messiah, Jesus, though ascended, remains central as the one who fulfills God’s promises, with His resurrection being the cornerstone of the apostles’ preaching and the hope of salvation offered to all.

For believers today, Acts provides a practical example of living in relationship with God. It records how God works through ordinary people empowered by the Holy Spirit, enabling them to persistently follow His guidance, despite fierce persecution that often lead to their death. Acts calls us to live out our faith actively, supporting one another and reflecting God’s glory in all we do, wherever He leads us, regardless of the circumstances.

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