Acts
This week, we begin a new sermon series on the book of Acts. The opening verses reveal that Acts is the second part of Luke’s historical account of Jesus’ works (Luke 1:1–4, Acts 1:1–3). In his Gospel, Luke traces Jesus’ story from His conception and birth to His resurrection. Acts picks up where the Gospel leaves off, starting with Jesus’ ascension and continuing through the early history of the Church.
Both works are addressed to Theophilus, whose name means "lover of God" in Greek. While some speculate that Luke wrote to a general audience, Theophilus was likely a historical figure, possibly a nobleman. Luke is regarded as a meticulous historian, and while we believe Acts because it is inspired by the Holy Spirit, it is encouraging to see that the names, places, and individuals mentioned can be independently verified.
This Sunday, we will focus on the opening verses of Acts, where the resurrected Lord Jesus commissions the Apostles to be His witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. Though the Apostles continue to ask questions about the nature and timing of God’s Kingdom, Jesus redirects them to trust in God’s power as they pursue His mission.
And what we will see is that faithfulness to God’s mission for the Church requires submitting to the Father’s plan, the Spirit’s power, and the Son’s authority. To come prepared for the sermon, take time this week to read and to meditate upon Acts 1:1-11, Psalm 110:1, Isaiah 32:15, Joel 2:28-29, Matthew 16:18, Luke 1:1-4; 24:50-54, James 5:7-8, and this article on the book of Acts.
This week we will celebrate the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper during our worship service. As we receive the elements of bread and wine look in faith to the Lord Jesus Christ. For as we physically receive the signs of the Lord’s body and blood, spiritually we feed upon him and all his benefits. Our hymns for this week include “Our God, Our Help in Ages Past,” “Rock of Ages,” and “Let Us Love and Sing and Wonder.”
Text: Acts 1:1-11
Title: An Empowered Mission
Outline:
- You must submit to the Father’s Plan (vv. 6-7)
- You must submit to the Spirit’s Power (v. 8)
- You must submit to the Son’s Authority (v. 9)