Luke continues the account of Paul, now being held by the tribune, he asks to address the crowd that has just tried to beat him to death outside the temple. Paul initially addresses the tribune in Greek and then addresses the crowd in the Hebrew dialect, which was most likely Aramaic, which was spoken in Palestine during the first century. Paul speaks to this crowd and offers his testimony of Jesus, his saving work and especially his calling in Paul's life. He speaks to being called to the Gentiles, but when he does the crowd erupts once again calling for his life. As believers, in the 21st Century, we must also testify of Jesus - he is alive, he saves and he guides our lives as well! Will we trust and follow him, as Paul did?

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!