​NOTE: Both the Gospel of Luke and Acts were written by Luke, the physician, to Theophilus (Luke 1:3; Acts 1:1). In Acts, the author specifically stated that he had written a former book (1:1), and the concluding section of the Gospel of Luke (Luke 24:36-53) is related to the beginning section of Acts (1:1-14). This shows that Acts is the sequel to the Gospel of Luke. Please refer to the chart above for the theme, divisions, and emphases of the book.

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1. The Promise of the Holy Spirit: Before His ascension, Jesus promised His disciples that the Holy Spirit would come and empower them. He gave them a new charge to be His witnesses even to the ends of the earth. Note that Acts 1:8 outlines the whole book (refer to chart); and by the power of the Holy Spirit, the gospel was spread to Jerusalem, all Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the known world at that time — Rome. It is by the power of the Holy Spirit that the cowards who deserted Jesus in Gethsemane were transformed into heroes of faith, mighty witnesses, and even courageous martyrs of the gospel (the term “martyrs” comes from the Greek word “witness” [martus]). Reflect and see what area(s) in your life that you would like to change; pray and ask the power of the Holy Spirit to transform you.

2. The Choosing of Matthias: Matthias was chosen to replace Judas. How sad it is when Judas forsook the privilege to follow Jesus, and the consequence was tragic. Value the opportunities to follow and to serve the Lord. No one is indispensable. If we say “no” to God, God will not be in shock. He will just choose someone else to take on the task, just that we will miss the blessing of serving the King of kings and Lord of lords. What are some of the areas that you could serve the Lord better (e.g. at home, at church, in school, at work, etc.)? How?

3. Your own insight: (fill in yourself) 

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Meditation and Application:

Meditate on the above questions along with the necessary actions.

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