As Luke continues the story of the early church, we come to the city of Corinth - well known to many believers because of the letters to that church. Here Paul again goes to the synagogue to reason with Jews and devout Gentiles, again facing opposition from Jews. Here Paul declares that the judgment of their decision is on them and that he will now go to the Gentiles (though this is certainly not permanent, as Paul is again in synagogue in Ephesus Acts 18:19). Many respond and then Luke presents us with a vision given to Paul (Acts 18:9-10). This vision is offered as a gracious assurance to Paul, despite his own fear and weakness - God asserts his presents and calls Paul to trust him and his plan for Corinth. Paul does and stays with great success in Corinth, for a year and a half. We can also trust God in our daily circumstance - he is present with us, he has a plan and we can absolutely trust him! We need grace to trust, but God can and will provide his strength to us.

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!