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To the ends of the earth

a Bible study on the book of Acts


“But
you will receive power
when
the Holy Spirit
comes on you;
and
you will be
My witnesses
in Jerusalem,
and in all Judea
and Samaria,
and
to the ends of the earth.”
Acts 1:8
Page 1
Table of Contents
Introduction 2-3
How to do this study 4-5
Introduction to Acts 6
Acts 1-2 7-9
Acts 3-5 10-12
Acts 6-7 13-15
Acts 8-9:31 16-18
Acts 9:32-12 19-21
Acts 13-14 22-24
Acts 15:1-35 25-27
Acts 15:36-18:17 28-30
Acts 18:18-chp. 23 31-33
Acts 24-28 34-36
Summary 37
Appendix 38-57
- Sermon Analysis Sheets
- “The Scattering” Map
- “Paul’s Missionary Journeys” Map

“To the ends of the earth: a Bible study on the book of Acts” © 2006, Matt Podszus
Page 2
Introduction
Welcome to “To the ends of the earth: A Bible study on the book of Acts”. We hope you are looking
forward to this exploration into one of the most exciting books in Scripture.

Acts is volume two of a two-volume series. It was written by Luke who, in his gospel, spelled out
its recipient and purpose:

“Inasmuch as many have undertaken to compile a narrative of the things that have been
accomplished among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers
of the word have delievered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having followed all things
closely for some time past, to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, that
you may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught.” (Luke 1:1-4)

The book of Luke very much revolves around the themes of “accomplishment” (1:20; 45; 4:21;
9:31; 12:50; etc.) and “certainty” (1:18; 2:17; 23:47; 24:13-25) Again and again Luke emphasizes
that Jesus fulfilled the Scriptures as well as His own predictions, therefore He can be trusted
with certainty. Was Theophilus doubting? Maybe. That seems to be Luke’s point in writing.

These themes spill over into Acts. Luke picks up Acts by remind Theophilus of what he has
already covered.

“In the first book, O Theophilus, I have dealt with all that Jesus began to do and teach, until
the day when He was taken up, after He had given commands through the Holy Spirit to the
apostles whom He had chosen. To them He presented Himself alive after His suffering by
many proofs, appearing to them during forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God.
And while staying with them He ordered them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the
promise of the Father, which He said, ‘you heard from me; for John baptized with water, but you
will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.’” (Acts 1:1-5)

Still Luke is instilling confidence and a sense of how Jesus has fulfilled and accomplished
certain things. Luke then dives into the promises that we are to now be aware of. In the end of
Luke’s gospel, he refers to a couple future-oriented teachings of Jesus. The disciples will be
persecuted and delivered up to synagogues and prisons and “will be brought before kings
and governors for [His] name’s sake” and that this will be their opportunity “to bear witness”
(21:10-19). Also, Jesus tells them that they “are witnesses of these things. And behold, I am
sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power
from on high” (24:22-49).

Would these things really happen? If not, Jesus’ credibility would be questionable. So, even as
Jesus fulfilled many things throughout the course of His own life, if we believe Him to be who He
claimed to be, we must ask whether His words continued to find fulfillment.

So we, and Theophilus, must ask how the rest of the story turned out.

The book of Acts details the coming of the Holy Spirit and the rapid expansion of the church.
Page 3
Introduction (cont.)
There are numerous valuable lessons to be learned about the work of the Spirit in our lives,
God’s heart for all nations, how to share our faith, God’s sovereignty in our circumstances, etc.,
yet the undercurrent is always that of certainty and fulfillment. Ultimately, this book should
either vindicate or indict Christ’s claims and the claims of his followers.

Acts 1:8 serves as table of contents for this book:

“ But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in
Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

Jesus promises that the Holy Spirit will come in power and the result will be that they will be His
witnesses to the ends of the earth.

Firstly, we see the theme of gospel expansion. Jesus has announced that His witnesses will
expand “to the ends of the earth.” In this book, you will glimpse whether this was the case and
how it occurred. One section of this study will just be committed to examining this aspect—even
evaluating how it might look as God uses your life in the continuation of this expansion.

Secondly, we see the theme of the Holy Spirit. If Jesus was the main character of Luke’s gospel,
then the Holy Spirit is definitely the main actor in Acts. Jesus promised this would be the case
and is shown to be true whenever we see the Spirit come “with power.” Acts will be a great
book to begin understanding the role of the Spirit and observing some of the things He does
through the lives of those He indwells.

Thirdly, we see the theme of witness. There are around 16 different sermons in the book of Acts.
In these we learn valuable lessons about evangelism—how to share with different audiences,
important points to hit, what to expect for results—as well as doctrine. These are wonderful
sections to analyze and can teach us much about our own gospel witness. In the back you will
find “Sermon Analysis” sheets. Every week you should have at least one sermon to analyze.
These will be very fruitful.

As we glean from these things, we should also see the unfolding story of Jesus’ reliability; things
took place just as He said they would. Don’t forget to consider, just as Theophilus did 2000 years
ago, how God’s sovereignty and faithfulness ought to impact your own life.

Don’t forget to consider how your life might either vindicate or indict Jesus words about what
would take place through His followers!

Don’t forget to remember that Jesus is obviously Lord, and that, in all this, it is Him to whom we
look to fulfill His words in-and-through us.

Enjoy!
Page 4
How to Do this Study
Remembering some of what we just read, we will approach this study inductively. In other words, we
are primarily going to let the book speak for itself.What we will be doing is utilizing a few analytical
tools in order to dissect and understand the meaning and significance of this book.

When we study a book inductively, it means we believe there is only


Acts 1-2 The Promised Spirit one meaning. With narratives, this can be a little more difficult to
Events
What were the major events in this section? What actually took place? What was their significance?
discern. Certainly, Luke wrote with a specific purpose in mind, but
the examples and events in this book can certainly have a variety
Did the narrator explain the significance in any way? How do we see these verses demonstrating the
coming of the Holy Spirit in power for the sake of global expansion of the gospel?

of intended messages. We will try to understand exactly what is


recorded (so that we don’t supply wrong assumptions) and take our
cues from Luke’s recorded purposes (as seen on pages 2 and 3). Here
is how this will look:

Events (upper left): Read through the section 2 or 3 times, then record
the specific events that took place. Try to assemble an accurate
Further investigation
Which words and concepts does this passage seem to hinge on? Look up any words or look into any
picture of what actually happened (don’t hypothesize or extrapolate
here). Try to get a reading on the question, “Why did Luke write this
concepts that might aid your understanding. Are there any questions that came up as you read?

down?” Remember all Scripture is God-breathed, so everything


that is recorded is recorded for a purpose. Even the way things are
recorded is God-breathed, so pay close attention.

If you get stuck or see a gap in your understanding, there is a section


Acts 1-2
The Holy Spirit
The Promised Spirit beneath the events section called “Further investigation”. It may be
What role did the Holy Spirit play in this section?
that there are concepts or words that really influence the way you
What did you see Him doing?
might understand this section. This is a good place to write those
questions and record some of your findings. This will help you get a
What was taught about Him?
greater idea of what might be going one and to seek the wisdom of
What convictions did you develop regarding His role in your life?
those who have thought about these things before. Also in this section
you will find prompts to chart some things on maps in the back. That
Gospel expansion
Did the gospel expand outward? should be a rewarding exercise that allows you to better see the
If so, where?

If so, how ? (Any surprises?)


magnitude of what is going on in this book.

The second page of each study will have two sections, one on The
What obstacles were there and how did God overcome them?

How might God want to use your life to advance His gospel?
Holy Spirit and one on Gospel expansion (middle left). As was
What obstacles are there?
mentioned, the Holy Spirit plays an enormous role in Acts. He is
How might God want to overcome those obstacles?
referred to 58 times. During each study you will examine the role you
see Him playing and consider how that might apply to the role He
plays in your life.
Sermon Analysis
Verses: Speaker(s)
The section on Gospel expansion will help you keep tabs on where
it is going. When you really chart its expansion, it is pretty breath-
Audience

taking and allows us to more clearly see Jesus’ insight into the future.
Title and key verse

Main Points

Along with this, you will use this section to consider how God might
want to use you in this ongoing expansion of the gospel.

One of the other elements that factor heavily into Acts are the
Doctrines and aspects of the gospel explained

speeches. These tie closely with their context and give an unfolding
Gospel elements that were noticeable absent
sense of the gospel message. From these we can gain an increasingly
Outcome deep grasp of how evangelism should look in our lives. The Sermon
Analysis (lower left) sheets are found in the back of the study. These
Lessons (how can you make application in your own gospel witness?) will help you to glean many important lessons from each sermon you
see. Each study will have at least one sermon to analyze.

Finally, page three (or four if you include the Sermon Analysis sheets)
Page 5
How to Do this Study (cont.)
of each study will be for distilling the final lessons and convictions.

There is a section on Cross referencing. Acts is a unique book in two ways: (1) It was written by
the most prolific New Testament author. This gives us quite a bit of
material within both Acts and the Gospel of Luke to compare what
Acts 1-2 The Promised Spirit
Cross referencing
we’ve read. Because this is a two volume work, it will be important to
look in these two books first for clues to help you understand each
What other passages might help us understand this one?
Compare Luke 22:31-34, 54-62 with Acts 2:13-40. How do you see Peter changed?

section you are reading. (2) It is written by someone who was deeply
influenced by the second most prolific New Testament author, Paul.
Some things to consider
Paul and his teaching also factor heavily into this book. When you
read Acts, you realize that he was a traveling companion of Paul’s
In the whole scheme of things, do you think it was likely or unlikely that you would become a
Christian? Why is it that this message made it 2000 years and half way around the world to you?

during much of his ministry. This gives you another broad set of
If the gospel has made it to you, why are there still places it hasn’t arrived?

Do you think that the promise of the Holy Spirit coming in “power” is for every Christian? What do

related writings to reference. Paul’s writings can help fill in both the
you think that should look like in your life?

Convictions and applications


historical and theological information provided in Acts. When you
What convictions did you develop working through these passages?

see Paul give a sermon in Acts, understanding his theology more


clearly might help you understand the point of the sermon. If points
How do you think these convictions will alter the way you live?

are left out, it may be because Luke was emphasizing a specific


Scripture memory verse aspect of the gospel or wanting us to focus on a specific truth.
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in
Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. Acts 1:8

Much has been made over the years about how Paul seems to
contradict his writings in his Acts sermons. It is important to remember that a sermon is very
different than a letter. Paul himself distinguishes between his style of writing and his style of
speaking (2 Cor. 10:9-11). Also, Luke writes many examples where his speakers used “many other
word” (2:40) and spoke for many other days (17:2). The final verse of Acts tells us that Paul, “lived
there [in Rome] two whole years at his own expense, and welcomed all who came to him,
proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness
and without hindrance.”

It goes without saying that we don’t hear all that Paul has to say, so Luke recorded what he record
intentionally and under the Spirit’s guidance in order to show this unfolding story.

The same could be said of Peter’s sermons and writings. When something appears to be missing, it
might actually offer a clue as to why what was recorded found its way in.
Whenever cross referencing it is a good rule of thumb to begin within the same book; expand
within the same author; then the same testament; finally the whole Bible, because every author uses
words, phrases and ideas in unique ways.

After this section you will find the “Some things to consider” section. This section will always have
2 or 3 questions that will just probe your thinking toward deeper consideration and application.

Then you will find the “Convictions and applications” section. Here is where you will consider how
this will affect your thinking and behavior. If this study affects neither, you may as well not do it.

In order to solidify your convictions and help you own them long term, we will be memorizing one
verse every week. Most of these come from Acts, but some come from related Scripture.

Finally, these compartments will not probably give you the freedom to deeply explore Acts. If you
will look about 10 inches to your left, you will see an 8.5“ X 11” page that will appear adjacent to
every page of this study. Use that space to jot thoughts, observations, questions and other notes.
Really dive into this study. It should take you about 3-4 hours per week. You could spend more, but
try to pace yourself to complete it in that amount of time.
Page 6
Acts 1-2 The Promised Spirit
Events
What were the major events in this section? What actually took place? What was their significance?
Did the narrator explain the significance in any way? How do we see these verses demonstrating the
coming of the Holy Spirit in power for the sake of global expansion of the gospel?

Further investigation
Which words and concepts does this passage seem to hinge on? Look up any words or look into any
concepts that might aid your understanding. Are there any questions that came up as you read?
Page 7
Acts 1-2 The Promised Spirit
The Holy Spirit
What role did the Holy Spirit play in this section?

What did you see Him doing?

What was taught about Him?

What convictions did you develop regarding His role in your life?

Gospel expansion
Did the gospel expand outward?

If so, where?

If so, how ? (Any surprises?)

What obstacles were there and how did God overcome them?

How might God want to use your life to advance His gospel?

What obstacles are there?

How might God want to overcome those obstacles?


Page 8
Acts 1-2 The Promised Spirit
Cross referencing
What other passages might help us understand this one?
Compare Luke 22:31-34, 54-62 with Acts 2:13-40. How do you see Peter changed?

Some things to consider


In the whole scheme of things, do you think it was likely or unlikely that you would become a
Christian? Why is it that this message made it 2000 years and half way around the world to you?

If the gospel has made it to you, why are there still places it hasn’t arrived?

Do you think that the promise of the Holy Spirit coming in “power” is for every Christian? What do
you think that should look like in your life?

Convictions and applications


What convictions did you develop working through these passages?

How do you think these convictions will alter the way you live?

Scripture memory verse


“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in
Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. Acts 1:8
Page 9
Acts 3-5 Power and Persecution
Events
What were the major events in this section? What actually took place? What was their significance?
Did the narrator explain the significance in any way? How do we see these verses demonstrating the
coming of the Holy Spirit in power for the sake of global expansion of the gospel?

Further investigation
Which words and concepts does this passage seem to hinge on? Look up any words or look into any
concepts that might aid your understanding. Are there any questions that came up as you read?
Compare Acts 5:1-11 with 2 Samuel 6:1-15. What could be an explanation for this unusual event?
Page 10
Acts 3-5 Power and Persecution
The Holy Spirit
What role did the Holy Spirit play in this section?

What did you see Him doing?

What was taught about Him?

What convictions did you develop regarding His role in your life?

Gospel expansion
Did the gospel expand outward?

If so, where?

If so, how ? (Any surprises?)

What obstacles were there and how did God overcome them?

How might God want to use your life to advance His gospel?

What obstacles are there?

How might God want to overcome those obstacles?


Page 11
Acts 3-5 Power and Persecution
Cross referencing
What other passages might help us understand this one?
Look up Luke 21:12-18. How do you see Jesus’ words fulfilled/played out in this passage?

Some things to consider


What are areas where giving an explanation for something unusual in your life can lead to an
opportunity to bear testimony for Christ? What might that look like?

Are you a bold person? We Peter and John? How do you think they acquired their boldness? Do
verses 4:29-31 give any clues?

Consider 4:18-20 and 5:27-29. Are there areas when you, too, need to obey God in opposition to the
world and its norm?

Convictions and applications


What convictions did you develop working through these passages?

How do you think these convictions will alter the way you live?

Scripture memory verse


“When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary
men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus” Acts 4:13
Page 12
Acts 6-7 Stephen
Events
What were the major events in this section? What actually took place? What was their significance?
Did the narrator explain the significance in any way? How do we see these verses demonstrating the
coming of the Holy Spirit in power for the sake of global expansion of the gospel?

Further investigation
Which words and concepts does this passage seem to hinge on? Look up any words or look into any
concepts that might aid your understanding. Are there any questions that came up as you read?
Isn’t Jesus supposed to be “seated” at the right hand of the throne (Matt. 26:64; Mark 14:62; Luke
22:69; Eph. 1:20; 2:6; Col. 3:1; Heb. 1:18; 12:2)? Why do you think he is described as “standing at
the right hand of God” in verses 7:55 and 56?
Page 13
Acts 6-7 Stephen
The Holy Spirit
What role did the Holy Spirit play in this section?

What did you see Him doing?

What was taught about Him?

What convictions did you develop regarding His role in your life?

Gospel expansion
Did the gospel expand outward?

If so, where?

If so, how ? (Any surprises?)

What obstacles were there and how did God overcome them?

How might God want to use your life to advance His gospel?

What obstacles are there?

How might God want to overcome those obstacles?


Page 14
Acts 6-7 Stephen
Cross referencing
What other passages might help us understand this one?
Read Mark 10:42-45 and Luke 23:32-49. How did Stephen’s life mirror Jesus’?

Some things to consider


Why do you think they needed such high standards for those who were merely going to “wait
tables”? (6:2)

If Stephen, who was “a man full of God’s grace and power,” was willing to be a servant why do we
tend to think we’re above such tasks? Are there areas where you are considering yourself too good
or gifted to serve?

How does Stephen’s example teach us how we out to respond to persecution we endure because of
our faith and the gospel (7:54-60)?

Convictions and applications


What convictions did you develop working through these passages?

How do you think these convictions will alter the way you live?

Scripture memory verse


“While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, ‘Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.’ Then he fell on his
knees and cried out, ‘Lord, do not hold this sin against them.’ When he had said this, he fell asleep.”
Acts 7:59-60
Page 15
Acts 8-9:31 Saul /Paul
Events
What were the major events in this section? What actually took place? What was their significance?
Did the narrator explain the significance in any way? How do we see these verses demonstrating the
coming of the Holy Spirit in power for the sake of global expansion of the gospel?

Further investigation
Which words and concepts does this passage seem to hinge on? Look up any words or look into any
concepts that might aid your understanding. Are there any questions that came up as you read?
On page 56 you will find a map displaying all of the places list in Acts 2:5-12. In Acts 8:4 we read
that “Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went.” Connect the dots
of each place mentioned in Acts 2 and fill in the area that was reached through the scattering of
persecution.
Page 16
Acts 8-9:31 Saul /Paul
The Holy Spirit
What role did the Holy Spirit play in this section?

What did you see Him doing?

What was taught about Him?

What convictions did you develop regarding His role in your life?

Gospel expansion
Did the gospel expand outward?

If so, where?

If so, how ? (Any surprises?)

What obstacles were there and how did God overcome them?

How might God want to use your life to advance His gospel?

What obstacles are there?

How might God want to overcome those obstacles?


Page 17
Acts 8-9:31 Saul /Paul
Cross referencing
What other passages might help us understand this one?
Look back at 2:5-12. How does that help us understand the magnitude of 8:1-4?

Read Luke 9:51-56 John 4:1-42. How do you see the disciples’ changed toward Samaritans?

Some things to consider


Why do you think all of the believers remained in Jerusalem instead of going “to the ends of the
earth”? How do you relate to the possible reasons.

Where has God “scattered” you now (both here and next year)? To whom might He want you to
preach the word?

What are some of the things you learn about God from the story of Saul/Paul.

Convictions and applications


What convictions did you develop working through these passages?

How do you think these convictions will alter the way you live?

Scripture memory verse


“Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went.” Acts 8:4
Page 18
Acts 9:32-12 Peter’s Revelation
Events
What were the major events in this section? What actually took place? What was their significance?
Did the narrator explain the significance in any way? How do we see these verses demonstrating the
coming of the Holy Spirit in power for the sake of global expansion of the gospel?

Further investigation
Which words and concepts does this passage seem to hinge on? Look up any words or look into any
concepts that might aid your understanding. Are there any questions that came up as you read?
Page 19
Acts 9:32-12 Peter’s Revelation
The Holy Spirit
What role did the Holy Spirit play in this section?

What did you see Him doing?

What was taught about Him?

What convictions did you develop regarding His role in your life?

Gospel expansion
Did the gospel expand outward?

If so, where?

If so, how ? (Any surprises?)

What obstacles were there and how did God overcome them?

How might God want to use your life to advance His gospel?

What obstacles are there?

How might God want to overcome those obstacles?


Page 20
Acts 9:32-12 Peter’s Revelation
Cross referencing
What other passages might help us understand this one?
Can you find any scripture where someone comes to saving faith through any means but having
a person preach the gospel to them?

Some things to consider


Have you eliminated ways and places that God might want to use you prematurely? What can
Peter’s revelation teach us about how we ought to be open to God’s will being different than we
expect?

Why didn’t the angel just tell Cornelius the gospel? What are the implications of this aspect of the
story? (11:13, 14)

What do we learn about the nature of salvation from 10:27-48?

Convictions and applications


What convictions did you develop working through these passages?

How do you think these convictions will alter the way you live?

Scripture memory verse


“He told us how he had seen an angel appear in his house and say, ‘Send to Joppa for Simon who
is called Peter. He will bring you a message through which you and all your household will be
saved.” Acts 11:13, 14
Page 21
Acts 13-14 Paul’s First Journey
Events
What were the major events in this section? What actually took place? What was their significance?
Did the narrator explain the significance in any way? How do we see these verses demonstrating the
coming of the Holy Spirit in power for the sake of global expansion of the gospel?

Further investigation
Which words and concepts does this passage seem to hinge on? Look up any words or look into any
concepts that might aid your understanding. Are there any questions that came up as you read?
On page 57 you will find a map with all of the cities and regions Paul visited on his missionary
journeys. Use 4 colored pencils and, for the next 5 studies, chart Paul’s 3 missionary journeys and
his journey to Rome.
Page 22
Acts 13-14 Paul’s First Journey
The Holy Spirit
What role did the Holy Spirit play in this section?

What did you see Him doing?

What was taught about Him?

What convictions did you develop regarding His role in your life?

Gospel expansion
Did the gospel expand outward?

If so, where?

If so, how ? (Any surprises?)

What obstacles were there and how did God overcome them?

How might God want to use your life to advance His gospel?

What obstacles are there?

How might God want to overcome those obstacles?


Page 23
Acts 13-14 Paul’s First Journey
Cross referencing
What other passages might help us understand this one?
Contrast 1:23-26 with 13:1-3. How does this illustrate how the presence of the Spirit alters the
modus operandi of the church?

Where else in Scripture do you see the Spirit playing a role of leading and directing?

How do you see Paul’s theology mirrored in his speeches and writings?

Some things to consider


How might the ministry of Paul and Barnabas have looked different than that of Peter, James and John
(13:1-3; Gal. 2:9)? How does that help you understand current diversity in the body? Can diversity
and unity compliment one another?

How do you see God’s sovereignty in Paul’s trip (esp., over persecution and its effect)? How should
that affect the way you welcome hardship/opposition into your life and ministry?

How do verses 14:21-23 help flesh out Paul’s full view of his stewardship and ministry?

Convictions and applications


What convictions did you develop working through these passages?

How do you think these convictions will alter the way you live?

Scripture memory verse


“We proclaim Him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present
everyone perfect in Christ. To this end I labor, struggling with all His energy, which so powerfully
works in me.” Colossians 1:28-29
Page 24
Acts 15:1-35 The Jerusalem Council
Events
What were the major events in this section? What actually took place? What was their significance?
Did the narrator explain the significance in any way? How do we see these verses demonstrating the
coming of the Holy Spirit in power for the sake of global expansion of the gospel?

Further investigation
Which words and concepts does this passage seem to hinge on? Look up any words or look into any
concepts that might aid your understanding. Are there any questions that came up as you read?
Page 25
Acts 15:1-35 The Jerusalem Council
The Holy Spirit
What role did the Holy Spirit play in this section?

What did you see Him doing?

What was taught about Him?

What convictions did you develop regarding His role in your life?

Gospel expansion
Did the gospel expand outward?

If so, where?

If so, how ? (Any surprises?)

What obstacles were there and how did God overcome them?

How might God want to use your life to advance His gospel?

What obstacles are there?

How might God want to overcome those obstacles?


Page 26
Acts 15:1-35 The Jerusalem Council
Cross referencing
What other passages might help us understand this one?
Compare Galatians 2:1-10 to Acts 15:1-35. What was the magnitude of the decisions made during
the Jerusalem council?

Some things to consider


What does this teach us about what is and is not essential in our evangelism and discipleship?

In light of this chapter, what roles do you believe morality and the disciplines should play in the
Christian life? (I.e.,What was the heart of the issue in Acts 15?)

Do these things hold the right place in your thinking? How does it affect us when they do not?

Convictions and applications


What convictions did you develop working through these passages?

How do you think these convictions will alter the way you live?

Scripture memory verse


“You foolish Galatians! Who has bewitched you? Before your very eyes Jesus Christ was clearly
portrayed as crucified. I would like to learn just one thing from you: Did you receive the Spirit by
observing the law or by believing what your heard? Are you so foolish? After beginning with the
Spirit, are you now trying to attain your goal by human effort?” Galatians 3:1-3
Page 27
Acts 15:36-18:17 Paul’s Second Journey
Events
What were the major events in this section? What actually took place? What was their significance?
Did the narrator explain the significance in any way? How do we see these verses demonstrating the
coming of the Holy Spirit in power for the sake of global expansion of the gospel?

Further investigation
Which words and concepts does this passage seem to hinge on? Look up any words or look into any
concepts that might aid your understanding. Are there any questions that came up as you read?
Resume your charting of Paul’s journeys on page 57 (this one begins in Antioch).
Page 28
Acts 15:36-18:17 Paul’s Second Journey
The Holy Spirit
What role did the Holy Spirit play in this section?

What did you see Him doing?

What was taught about Him?

What convictions did you develop regarding His role in your life?

Gospel expansion
Did the gospel expand outward?

If so, where?

If so, how ? (Any surprises?)

What obstacles were there and how did God overcome them?

How might God want to use your life to advance His gospel?

What obstacles are there?

How might God want to overcome those obstacles?


Page 29
Acts 15:36-18:17 Paul’s Second Journey
Cross referencing
What other passages might help us understand this one?
Read 2 Timothy 4:9-11 for some perspective on the surprising issue that arose between Paul and
Barnabas regarding Mark.

Compare 16:6-10 with 2 Corinthians 2:12-13. How does the Spirit’s leading look in our lives?

Some things to consider


How do you explain what happened between Paul and Barnabas? Why is it recorded? Do you see
God’s sovereignty in this situation?

Paul’s second journey begins very inauspiciously (15:37-39) and took several counter intuitive turns
(16:6-10; 2 Cor. 2:12-13; Acts 17:14-16; 18:1-5) along the way. What does this teach us about the
nature of ministry and following the Spirit’s lead in life?

What are some things you can take from the example of the Bereans? (17:11)

Convictions and applications


What convictions did you develop working through these passages?

How do you think these convictions will alter the way you live?

Scripture memory verse


“Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the
message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was
true.” Acts 17:11
Page 30
Acts 18:18- chp. 23 Paul’s Third Journey
Events
What were the major events in this section? What actually took place? What was their significance?
Did the narrator explain the significance in any way? How do we see these verses demonstrating the
coming of the Holy Spirit in power for the sake of global expansion of the gospel?

Further investigation
Which words and concepts does this passage seem to hinge on? Look up any words or look into any
concepts that might aid your understanding. Are there any questions that came up as you read?
Continue to chart Paul’s journeys on page 57 (this one begins in Antioch, too).
Page 31
Acts 18:18- chp. 23 Paul’s Third Journey
The Holy Spirit
What role did the Holy Spirit play in this section?

What did you see Him doing?

What was taught about Him?

What convictions did you develop regarding His role in your life?

Gospel expansion
Did the gospel expand outward?

If so, where?

If so, how ? (Any surprises?)

What obstacles were there and how did God overcome them?

How might God want to use your life to advance His gospel?

What obstacles are there?

How might God want to overcome those obstacles?


Page 32
Acts 18:18- chp. 23 Paul’s Third Journey
Cross referencing
What other passages might help us understand this one?
Can you find any clues throughout Scripture as to what fueled Paul’s deep passion for making the
gospel known?

Some things to consider


In this passage (esp., in Paul’s farewell to the Ephesian Elders) we see a snapshot of Paul’s heart.What
do you think fueled his deep passion?

Why do you think Paul chose to utilize his Roman citizenship in this section (and in Acts 16:37-39)
but not in other situations? When is it appropriate to capitalize on your worldly privileges as a
Christian?

Convictions and applications


What convictions did you develop working through these passages?

How do you think these convictions will alter the way you live?

Scripture memory verse


“However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task
the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace.” Acts 20:24
Page 33
Acts 24-28 To Rome
Events
What were the major events in this section? What actually took place? What was their significance?
Did the narrator explain the significance in any way? How do we see these verses demonstrating the
coming of the Holy Spirit in power for the sake of global expansion of the gospel?

Further investigation
Which words and concepts does this passage seem to hinge on? Look up any words or look into any
concepts that might aid your understanding. Are there any questions that came up as you read?
Continue to chart Paul’s journeys on page 57 (this one begins in Jerusalem).
Page 34
Acts 24-28 To Rome
The Holy Spirit
What role did the Holy Spirit play in this section?

What did you see Him doing?

What was taught about Him?

What convictions did you develop regarding His role in your life?

Gospel expansion
Did the gospel expand outward?

If so, where?

If so, how ? (Any surprises?)

What obstacles were there and how did God overcome them?

How might God want to use your life to advance His gospel?

What obstacles are there?

How might God want to overcome those obstacles?


Page 35
Acts 24-28 To Rome
Cross referencing
What other passages might help us understand this one?
Read Romans 1:7-15 and 15:23-29.What do you see in Paul’s heart regarding Rome?

Look at Philippeans 1:12-14. How did Paul’s time in Rome turn out?

Some things to consider


We see in Romans 1 and 15 that Paul’s heart was to go “preach the gospel” in Rome and that he
seemed to feel God leading him there. Do you think Paul would have envisioned making the trip in
the fashion he did? What does that teach you about God’s sovereignty in your circumstances?

What would it look like for you to live in an awareness of God’s sovereignty next year, even as you
move into ministry areas you believe He has called you to?

Convictions and applications


What convictions did you develop working through these passages?

How do you think these convictions will alter the way you live?

Scripture memory verse


“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful
labor for me.” Philippeans 1:21 - 22a
Page 36
Acts
Summary
Write a summary of the book of Acts (250 words or less)

Key lessons. Record the key lessons from each study


Acts 1-2

Acts 3-5

Acts 6-7

Acts 8-9:31

Acts 9:32-12

Acts 13-14

Acts 15:1-35

Acts 15:36-18:17

Acts 18:18-chp. 23

Acts 24-28

The final chapter (in the next year, how do you see your life factoring into the gospel “going to the
ends of the earth”?
Page 37
Appendix
Sermon Analysis Sheets
“The Scattering” Map
“Paul’s Missionary Journeys” Map
Sermon Analysis
Verses: Speaker(s)

Audience

Title and key verse

Main Points

Doctrines and aspects of the gospel explained

Gospel elements that were noticeable absent

Outcome

Lessons (how can you make application in your own gospel witness?)
Sermon Analysis
Verses: Speaker(s)

Audience

Title and key verse

Main Points

Doctrines and aspects of the gospel explained

Gospel elements that were noticeable absent

Outcome

Lessons (how can you make application in your own gospel witness?)
Sermon Analysis
Verses: Speaker(s)

Audience

Title and key verse

Main Points

Doctrines and aspects of the gospel explained

Gospel elements that were noticeable absent

Outcome

Lessons (how can you make application in your own gospel witness?)
Sermon Analysis
Verses: Speaker(s)

Audience

Title and key verse

Main Points

Doctrines and aspects of the gospel explained

Gospel elements that were noticeable absent

Outcome

Lessons (how can you make application in your own gospel witness?)
Sermon Analysis
Verses: Speaker(s)

Audience

Title and key verse

Main Points

Doctrines and aspects of the gospel explained

Gospel elements that were noticeable absent

Outcome

Lessons (how can you make application in your own gospel witness?)
Sermon Analysis
Verses: Speaker(s)

Audience

Title and key verse

Main Points

Doctrines and aspects of the gospel explained

Gospel elements that were noticeable absent

Outcome

Lessons (how can you make application in your own gospel witness?)
Sermon Analysis
Verses: Speaker(s)

Audience

Title and key verse

Main Points

Doctrines and aspects of the gospel explained

Gospel elements that were noticeable absent

Outcome

Lessons (how can you make application in your own gospel witness?)
Sermon Analysis
Verses: Speaker(s)

Audience

Title and key verse

Main Points

Doctrines and aspects of the gospel explained

Gospel elements that were noticeable absent

Outcome

Lessons (how can you make application in your own gospel witness?)
Sermon Analysis
Verses: Speaker(s)

Audience

Title and key verse

Main Points

Doctrines and aspects of the gospel explained

Gospel elements that were noticeable absent

Outcome

Lessons (how can you make application in your own gospel witness?)
Sermon Analysis
Verses: Speaker(s)

Audience

Title and key verse

Main Points

Doctrines and aspects of the gospel explained

Gospel elements that were noticeable absent

Outcome

Lessons (how can you make application in your own gospel witness?)
Sermon Analysis
Verses: Speaker(s)

Audience

Title and key verse

Main Points

Doctrines and aspects of the gospel explained

Gospel elements that were noticeable absent

Outcome

Lessons (how can you make application in your own gospel witness?)
Sermon Analysis
Verses: Speaker(s)

Audience

Title and key verse

Main Points

Doctrines and aspects of the gospel explained

Gospel elements that were noticeable absent

Outcome

Lessons (how can you make application in your own gospel witness?)
Sermon Analysis
Verses: Speaker(s)

Audience

Title and key verse

Main Points

Doctrines and aspects of the gospel explained

Gospel elements that were noticeable absent

Outcome

Lessons (how can you make application in your own gospel witness?)
Sermon Analysis
Verses: Speaker(s)

Audience

Title and key verse

Main Points

Doctrines and aspects of the gospel explained

Gospel elements that were noticeable absent

Outcome

Lessons (how can you make application in your own gospel witness?)
Sermon Analysis
Verses: Speaker(s)

Audience

Title and key verse

Main Points

Doctrines and aspects of the gospel explained

Gospel elements that were noticeable absent

Outcome

Lessons (how can you make application in your own gospel witness?)
Sermon Analysis
Verses: Speaker(s)

Audience

Title and key verse

Main Points

Doctrines and aspects of the gospel explained

Gospel elements that were noticeable absent

Outcome

Lessons (how can you make application in your own gospel witness?)
Sermon Analysis
Verses: Speaker(s)

Audience

Title and key verse

Main Points

Doctrines and aspects of the gospel explained

Gospel elements that were noticeable absent

Outcome

Lessons (how can you make application in your own gospel witness?)
The Scattering
“Those who had been scattered preached the
word wherever they went.” Acts 8:4

Black Sea Caspian


= Rome Sea

PONTUS

CAPPADOCIA

PHRYGIA
The Parthian
PAMPHYLIA Empire

MESOPOTAMIA

CRETE
Ecbatana =
Media

= Cyrene = Jerusalem Susa =

CYRENE JUDEA ELAM

EGYPT
Red Persian
Sea Gulf
Paul’s
ü Three Taverns
ü Forum of Appius Missionary
ü Puteoli
Byzantium ü ü Chalcedon Journeys
Philippi üü Neapolis
Amphipolis ü Samathros
Imbros
ü ü Apollonia ü Ankyra
Lemnos
Berea ü Thessalonica
Troas ü Gordion ü Caesarea ü
Assps ü
Lesbos ü Pergamum
Mitylene ü ü Thyiatira
Sardis ü ü Philadelphia ü Antioch in Pisidia
Evvoia
Chios ü Smyrna
ü Rhegium Delphi ü ü Laodicea ü Iconium
ü Ephesus ü Colossae
Lystra ü
Corinth ü ü Athens
ü Andros Samos
ü Miletus ü Derbe ü Tarsus ü Issus
Cenchreae Naxos Patmos
Syracus ü Cos Attalia üü Perga
Santorini ü Cnidus Antioc üAleppo ü
Sparta ü
Selucia Pieria ü Selucia Pieria ü
ü Patara
Rhodes

ü Salamis
CYPRUS
Phoenix ü Paphos ü
Cauda Fair Havens ü ü Lasea Byblos ü

Damascus ü
Sidon ü
ü Tyre
ü Ptolemais
ü Cyrene
ü Caesarea

ü Jerusalem

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