Luke continues the account of Cornelius, the Centurion, in Caesarea and records the sermon of Peter to these God-fearing Gentiles and the ensuing response. Peter first addresses the reality that God is impartial and offers the grace of salvation to all peoples. This is significant, as it demonstrates the uniqueness of the gospel message to each group throughout Acts. There are obvious similarities throughout the sermons of Acts, including the lordship of Jesus (36), his earthly ministry and the power of God and the Holy Spirit in his life (37-38), his death and resurrection (39-40), his role as judge of all (42) and his call of the apostles to proclaim this glorious message to the ends of the earth. These themes dominate the messages of Acts. Jesus came, died & rose to provide forgiveness to sinners like us, including Gentiles of all types & nationalities (earnest seekers)!

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!