◄ Acts 1 ►
Book Sum People Lessons Que
Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Prologue (Luke 1:1–4) 1In my first book, O Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach, 2until the day He was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles He had chosen. 3After His suffering, He presented Himself to them with many convincing proofs that He was alive. He appeared to them over a span of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. 4And while they were gathered together,a He commanded them: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift the Father promised, which you have heard Me discuss. 5For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.b” The Ascension (Mark 16:19–20; Luke 24:50–53) 6So when they came together, they asked Him, “Lord, will You at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” 7Jesus replied, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by His own authority. 8But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” 9After He had said this, they watched as He was taken up, and a cloud hid Him from their sight. 10They were looking intently into the sky as He was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. 11“Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen Him go into heaven.” Matthias Replaces Judas 12Then they returned to Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives, which is near the city, a Sabbath day’s journey away.c 13When they arrived, they went to the upper room where they were staying: Peter and John, James and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James son of Alphaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas son of James. 14With one accord they all continued in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers. 15In those days Peter stood up among the brothers (a gathering of about a hundred and twenty) and said, 16“Brothers, the Scripture had to be fulfilled that the Holy Spirit foretold through the mouth of David concerning Judas, who became a guide for those who arrested Jesus. 17He was one of our number and shared in this ministry.” 18(Now with the reward for his wickedness Judas bought a field; there he fell headlong and burst open in the middle, and all his intestines spilled out. 19This became known to all who lived in Jerusalem, so they called that field in their own language Akeldama, that is, Field of Blood.) 20“For it is written in the book of Psalms: ‘May his place be deserted; let there be no one to dwell in it,’d and, ‘May another take his position.’e 21Therefore it is necessary to choose one of the men who have accompanied us the whole time the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 22beginning from John’s baptism until the day Jesus was taken up from us. For one of these must become a witness with us of His resurrection.” 23So they proposed two men: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. 24And they prayed, “Lord, You know everyone’s heart. Show us which of these two You have chosen 25to take up this ministry and apostleship, which Judas abandoned to go to his rightful place.” 26Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias. So he was added to the eleven apostles. Footnotes: 4 a Or eating together 5 b Or For John baptized in water, but in a few days you will be baptized in the Holy Spirit; cited in Acts 11:16 12 c A Sabbath day’s journey is 2,000 cubits (approximately 3,000 feet or 914.4 meters) 20 d Psalm 69:25 20 e Psalm 109:8 Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Acts 1 Summary The Ascension Verses 1–5 – Prologue and Promise of the Spirit Luke reminds Theophilus of his earlier Gospel, reviewing Jesus’ life and resurrection appearances. Over forty days the risen Lord teaches “about the kingdom of God” and commands the disciples to stay in Jerusalem until they receive “the promise of the Father,” the baptism with the Holy Spirit. Verses 6–11 – The Ascension and Commission The disciples ask if the kingdom will be restored to Israel right then. Jesus redirects them: timing is the Father’s business, but power is coming so they can be His witnesses “in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” He ascends from the Mount of Olives as a cloud hides Him, and two angels promise He will return “in the same way.” Verses 12–14 – Waiting in Prayer The Eleven walk the short distance back to the city, gather in an upper room with the women, Mary the mother of Jesus, and His brothers. About 120 followers devote themselves to unified, persistent prayer. Verses 15–26 – The Replacement of Judas Peter stands up, citing Psalms to explain Judas’s fall and the need to fill his office. After prayer and casting lots, Matthias is chosen to join the Eleven as a witness of the resurrection. Acts 1 serves as the opening chapter of the Book of Acts, recounting the final moments of Jesus' earthly ministry and His ascension into heaven. After His resurrection, Jesus spent forty days appearing to His apostles and speaking about the kingdom of God. Before His ascension, He promises the gift of the Holy Spirit and commands His disciples to witness His teachings from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth. This chapter also includes the appointment of Matthias, who replaces Judas Iscariot as an apostle. Authorship and Date • Luke, a physician and coworker of Paul (Colossians 4:14), pens both the Gospel of Luke and Acts as a two-part history. • Internal “we” sections (Acts 16:10 ff.) show he traveled with Paul. • The book likely ends in A.D. 62 because Paul’s house arrest in Rome (Acts 28) is current, so Acts was probably finished soon after. Theophilus and Purpose • “Theophilus” means “lover of God.” Whether a single patron or a broader audience, Luke wants readers to “know the certainty” (Luke 1:4) of what they believe. • Acts 1 bridges Jesus’ earthly ministry and the Spirit-powered mission of the church. Historical Setting • Rome rules Judea through governors like Pontius Pilate. • Jerusalem’s population swells during feasts; Pentecost is fifty days after Passover. • The small gathering of 120 shows the movement’s humble start before it sweeps the Roman world. Geography: Mount of Olives to the Upper Room • The Mount of Olives sits east of the Temple, separated by the Kidron Valley. The return walk (“a Sabbath day’s journey,” about 0.6 miles) fits known topography. • Early church tradition places the upper room on Mount Zion, perhaps the home of John Mark’s family (Acts 12:12). The Promise of the Holy Spirit • Luke 24:49: “I am sending upon you what My Father promised.” • Joel 2:28 foretold God pouring out His Spirit on all flesh; Peter will quote it in Acts 2. • The Spirit gives power (Greek dynamis), turning frightened disciples into bold witnesses (compare 2 Timothy 1:7). Witnesses to the Ends of the Earth Acts 1:8 sketches the book’s outline: 1. Jerusalem (Acts 1–7) 2. Judea and Samaria (Acts 8–12) 3. The Gentile world, ending in Rome (Acts 13–28) The Ascension in Context • Daniel 7:13 pictures “one like a son of man” coming with clouds; Jesus’ ascension echoes this royal scene. • Hebrews 4:14 notes that Jesus, our great High Priest, has “passed through the heavens,” interceding for believers. • Two angels’ promise of a return “in the same way” links to Zechariah 14:4, which places Messiah’s feet again on the Mount of Olives. Waiting and Unified Prayer • Psalm 27:14: “Wait for the LORD; be strong.” The disciples obey by waiting, not rushing ahead. • Their unity contrasts with pre-resurrection disputes (Luke 22:24). Shared prayer prepares them for the Spirit. Peter’s Leadership and Use of Scripture • Peter stands on Psalm 69:25 and Psalm 109:8 to address Judas’s betrayal and replacement. • This shows early believers already reading the Psalms as prophetic pointers to Jesus. Casting Lots • Proverbs 16:33: “The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD.” • After Pentecost, decisions are guided directly by the Spirit (Acts 13:2), so lots disappear from the record. Archaeological Notes • The “Field of Blood” (Akeldama) lies south of the ancient city, a patch of clay-rich soil once used by potters, matching Matthew 27:7. • First-century ossuaries unearthed around Jerusalem confirm common burial practices described in Acts 1:18–19. Connections with the Old Testament • Forty days of post-resurrection teaching mirror Moses’ forty days on Sinai (Exodus 24:18), highlighting a new covenant era. • The number twelve echoes the twelve tribes, signaling that the church carries forward God’s plans for Israel (James 1:1). Practical Takeaways • God’s timing often calls for waiting, but waiting is active when filled with prayer. • Power for witness comes from the Spirit, not personal ability. • Scripture remains the guide for decisions; Peter’s example shows believers can lean on God’s Word for clarity today. Looking Ahead to Acts 2 Chapter 1 ends with expectancy: the team is complete, the promise is near, and Jerusalem—soon the birthplace of a worldwide movement—waits quietly for the sound of rushing wind. Connections to Additional Scriptures Luke 24:49 Jesus instructs the disciples to wait for the Holy Spirit, paralleling Acts 1:4-5. Matthew 28:18-20 The Great Commission aligns with Acts 1:8, emphasizing the call to make disciples of all nations. John 14:16-17 Jesus promises the Holy Spirit, reinforcing the message of Acts 1:4-5. Philippians 4:6 Encourages believers to pray about everything, echoing the prayerful attitude in Acts 1:14. Teaching Points The Promise of the Holy Spirit Acts 1:4-5 highlights Jesus' instruction to the disciples to wait in Jerusalem for the promise of the Father, which is the baptism of the Holy Spirit. This emphasizes the importance of divine empowerment for ministry. The Ascension of Jesus In Acts 1:9-11, Jesus ascends into heaven, marking the end of His earthly ministry and the beginning of the disciples' mission. The angels' message reassures the disciples of Jesus' return, providing hope and motivation for their work. The Role of Witnesses Acts 1:8 outlines the disciples' mission to be witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. This verse underscores the global scope of the Gospel and the responsibility of believers to share it. The Importance of Prayer and Unity Acts 1:14 describes the disciples and other believers as being constantly in prayer and united in purpose. This unity and devotion to prayer are crucial for the Church's effectiveness. The Selection of Matthias Acts 1:23-26 details the process of choosing Matthias to replace Judas Iscariot. This event highlights the importance of seeking God's guidance in decision-making and maintaining the integrity of leadership. Practical Applications Seek the Holy Spirit's Guidance Just as the disciples waited for the Holy Spirit, we should seek His guidance and empowerment in our daily lives and ministries. Be a Faithful Witness Embrace the call to be a witness for Christ in your community and beyond, sharing the Gospel with those around you. Prioritize Prayer and Unity Foster a spirit of unity and commit to regular prayer, both individually and corporately, to strengthen your faith and the Church. Trust in God's Timing Like the disciples waiting for the Holy Spirit, trust in God's perfect timing for His plans to unfold in your life. Make Decisions with God's Wisdom When faced with important decisions, seek God's wisdom and guidance, as the disciples did in choosing Matthias. People 1. Jesus Described as having given instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles He had chosen (Acts 1:2). The Greek name "Ἰησοῦς" (Iēsous) is equivalent to the Hebrew "Yeshua," meaning "Yahweh is salvation." 2. Theophilus Addressed in the opening verse as the recipient of the book of Acts (Acts 1:1). The name "Θεόφιλος" (Theophilos) means "friend of God" in Greek. 3. The Apostles Referred to as those whom Jesus had chosen and to whom He presented Himself alive after His suffering (Acts 1:2-3). The Greek term "ἀπόστολος" (apostolos) means "one who is sent." 4. Peter Mentioned as taking a leadership role among the apostles (Acts 1:13, 15). His name in Greek is "Πέτρος" (Petros), meaning "rock." 5. John Listed among the apostles (Acts 1:13). The Greek name "Ἰωάννης" (Iōannēs) is derived from the Hebrew "Yohanan," meaning "Yahweh is gracious." 6. James Another apostle mentioned (Acts 1:13). The Greek name "Ἰάκωβος" (Iakōbos) corresponds to the Hebrew "Yaakov," meaning "supplanter." 7. Andrew Listed as one of the apostles (Acts 1:13). The Greek name "Ἀνδρέας" (Andreas) means "manly" or "brave." 8. Philip Included among the apostles (Acts 1:13). The Greek name "Φίλιππος" (Philippos) means "lover of horses." 9. Thomas Another apostle mentioned (Acts 1:13). His name in Greek is "Θωμᾶς" (Thōmas), derived from the Aramaic "Te'oma," meaning "twin." 10. Bartholomew Listed among the apostles (Acts 1:13). The name "Βαρθολομαῖος" (Bartholomaios) is of Aramaic origin, meaning "son of Talmai." 11. Matthew Included as one of the apostles (Acts 1:13). The Greek name "Ματθαῖος" (Matthaios) is derived from the Hebrew "Mattityahu," meaning "gift of Yahweh." 12. James son of Alphaeus Another apostle mentioned (Acts 1:13). The Greek "Ἰάκωβος" (Iakōbos) is the same as for the other James, meaning "supplanter." 13. Simon the Zealot Listed among the apostles (Acts 1:13). The Greek "Σίμων" (Simōn) is derived from the Hebrew "Shimon," meaning "he has heard." 14. Judas son of James Mentioned as one of the apostles (Acts 1:13). The Greek "Ἰούδας" (Ioudas) corresponds to the Hebrew "Yehudah," meaning "praised." 15. Mary, the mother of Jesus Present with the apostles in prayer (Acts 1:14). Her name in Greek is "Μαρία" (Maria), derived from the Hebrew "Miryam." 16. The Brothers of Jesus Mentioned as being present with the apostles (Acts 1:14). The Greek term "ἀδελφοί" (adelphoi) can mean "brothers" or "siblings." 17. Joseph called Barsabbas (Justus) Considered as a candidate to replace Judas Iscariot (Acts 1:23). The name "Ἰωσὴφ" (Iōsēph) is of Hebrew origin, meaning "he will add." 18. Matthias Chosen to replace Judas Iscariot as an apostle (Acts 1:23-26). The Greek name "Μαθθίας" (Matthias) is derived from the Hebrew "Mattityahu," meaning "gift of Yahweh." Places 1. Jerusalem Acts 1:4: "And while they were gathered together, He commanded them: 'Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift the Father promised, which you have heard Me discuss.'" Description: Jerusalem is the city where Jesus instructed His disciples to wait for the Holy Spirit. It is a central location in Jewish history and the early Christian church. The Greek term used here is "Ἱεροσόλυμα" (Hierosolyma). 2. Mount of Olives (Mount Olivet) Acts 1:12: "Then they returned to Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives, which is near the city, a Sabbath day’s journey away." Description: The Mount of Olives is a significant location in the New Testament, known for its proximity to Jerusalem and its role in Jesus' ascension. The Greek term is "Ὄρος τῶν Ἐλαιῶν" (Oros tōn Elaiōn). 3. Galilee Acts 1:11: "'Men of Galilee,' they said, 'why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen Him go into heaven.'" Description: Galilee is the region where many of Jesus' disciples originated. It is often associated with Jesus' early ministry. The Greek term is "Γαλιλαία" (Galilaia). Events 1. Introduction by Luke Luke addresses Theophilus, summarizing his former account of all that Jesus began to do and teach until His ascension. This sets the stage for the continuation of Jesus' work through the apostles. The Greek word "ἤρξατο" (ērxato) meaning "began" emphasizes the ongoing nature of Jesus' ministry through His followers. 2. Jesus' Post-Resurrection Appearances Jesus presents Himself alive to the apostles after His suffering, offering many convincing proofs over forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God (Acts 1:3). The Greek term "τεκμήριον" (tekmerion) for "convincing proofs" underscores the undeniable evidence of His resurrection. 3. The Promise of the Holy Spirit Jesus instructs the apostles not to leave Jerusalem but to wait for the Father's promise, which is the baptism with the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:4-5). The Greek word "ἐπαγγελία" (epangelia) for "promise" highlights the certainty and divine assurance of the Holy Spirit's coming. 4. The Ascension of Jesus After speaking with the apostles, Jesus is taken up before their eyes, and a cloud hides Him from their sight (Acts 1:9). The Greek "ἀνελήμφθη" (anelēmphthē) for "was taken up" indicates a passive action, emphasizing God's role in Jesus' ascension. 5. The Apostles' Return to Jerusalem Following Jesus' ascension, the apostles return to Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives, a Sabbath day's walk away (Acts 1:12). This event sets the stage for the coming of the Holy Spirit and the birth of the Church. 6. The Upper Room Gathering The apostles, along with certain women, Mary the mother of Jesus, and His brothers, devote themselves to prayer in the upper room (Acts 1:13-14). The Greek "προσκαρτερέω" (proskartereō) for "devote" conveys a sense of persistent and steadfast prayer. 7. The Selection of Matthias Peter addresses the group of about 120 believers, explaining the need to replace Judas Iscariot. They cast lots, and Matthias is chosen to join the eleven apostles (Acts 1:15-26). The Greek "κλῆρος" (klēros) for "lots" reflects the practice of seeking divine guidance in decision-making. Lessons from Acts 1 1. The Promise of the Holy Spirit In Acts 1, Jesus instructs His disciples to wait for the gift promised by the Father, the Holy Spirit. This promise is a reminder that God equips us with what we need to fulfill His purposes. As Acts 1:8 states, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses." This power is not just for the early church but for all believers, enabling us to live out our faith boldly and effectively. 2. The Importance of Obedience The disciples' obedience to Jesus' command to stay in Jerusalem is a powerful lesson. They didn't rush ahead with their own plans but waited as instructed. This teaches us the value of patience and trust in God's timing. Obedience to God's Word is foundational, as it aligns us with His will and opens the door for His blessings. 3. The Ascension of Jesus Acts 1:9 describes Jesus being taken up into heaven, a pivotal moment that confirms His divine authority and the completion of His earthly mission. The ascension assures us that Jesus is now seated at the right hand of the Father, interceding for us. It also reminds us that our ultimate hope is not in this world but in the eternal kingdom of God. 4. The Role of Witnesses Jesus commissions His followers to be His witnesses "in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth" (Acts 1:8). This call to witness is not just for the apostles but for every believer. Sharing the gospel is a privilege and responsibility, and we are empowered by the Holy Spirit to carry out this mission. 5. The Unity of Believers After Jesus' ascension, the disciples returned to Jerusalem and "joined together constantly in prayer" (Acts 1:14). This unity in prayer highlights the strength found in community and collective faith. As believers, we are called to support one another, pray together, and work in harmony to advance God's kingdom. 6. The Importance of Scripture Peter's use of Scripture to explain the need to replace Judas (Acts 1:16-20) underscores the importance of grounding our decisions in God's Word. Scripture provides guidance, wisdom, and clarity for our lives. It is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path, helping us navigate the complexities of life with divine insight. 7. The Selection of Leaders The process of choosing Matthias to replace Judas (Acts 1:23-26) teaches us about seeking God's guidance in leadership decisions. The disciples prayed and cast lots, trusting God to reveal His choice. This reminds us to seek divine direction in all our decisions, especially when it comes to leadership and service in the church. 8. The Power of Prayer The early church's commitment to prayer is evident throughout Acts 1. They prayed constantly, demonstrating their dependence on God. Prayer is a powerful tool that connects us with the Creator, aligns our hearts with His will, and unleashes His power in our lives. It is essential for personal growth and effective ministry. 9. The Assurance of Jesus' Return The angels' message in Acts 1:11 assures us that "This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen Him go into heaven." This promise of Jesus' return gives us hope and motivation to live faithfully, knowing that our Savior will one day return to establish His eternal kingdom. 10. The Call to Action Acts 1 concludes with the disciples preparing for the coming of the Holy Spirit and the mission ahead. This call to action is a reminder that our faith is not passive. We are called to be active participants in God's plan, using our gifts and resources to spread the gospel and serve others. Let us be diligent and ready, knowing that our labor in the Lord is not in vain. Topics 1. Introduction and Purpose of Acts Acts 1:1-2 introduces the book as a continuation of the Gospel of Luke, addressed to Theophilus. It recounts "all that Jesus began to do and to teach" until His ascension. The Greek word for "began" (ἤρξατο, ērxato) implies that Jesus' work continues through the apostles. 2. The Promise of the Holy Spirit In Acts 1:4-5, Jesus instructs the apostles to wait in Jerusalem for the "promise of the Father," referring to the Holy Spirit. The Greek term for "promise" (ἐπαγγελία, epangelia) emphasizes a divine assurance. 3. The Ascension of Jesus Acts 1:9-11 describes Jesus' ascension into heaven. The Greek word for "taken up" (ἐπήρθη, epērthē) signifies a lifting up, highlighting the divine nature of this event. 4. The Apostles' Question about the Kingdom In Acts 1:6-7, the apostles ask Jesus if He will restore the kingdom to Israel. Jesus responds that it is not for them to know the "times or seasons" (χρόνους ἢ καιρούς, chronous ē kairous), indicating divine timing. 5. The Commission to be Witnesses Acts 1:8 records Jesus' commission to the apostles to be His "witnesses" (μάρτυρες, martyres) in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth, emphasizing the global mission of the Church. 6. The Return to Jerusalem Acts 1:12-14 describes the apostles' return to Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives. They gather in an upper room, devoting themselves to prayer. The Greek word for "devoting" (προσκαρτεροῦντες, proskarterountes) suggests persistent and steadfast prayer. 7. The Selection of Matthias Acts 1:15-26 details the selection of Matthias to replace Judas Iscariot. Peter cites Scripture to justify the need for a replacement, and the apostles cast lots (κλήρους, klērous) to choose Matthias, reflecting a reliance on divine guidance. Themes 1. The Continuation of Jesus' Ministry Acts 1:1-2 highlights the continuation of Jesus' work through the apostles: "In my first book, O Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach, until the day He was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles He had chosen." The Greek word for "began" (ἤρξατο, ērxato) implies that Jesus' ministry is ongoing through His followers. 2. The Promise of the Holy Spirit In Acts 1:4-5, Jesus instructs the apostles to wait for the Holy Spirit: "Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift My Father promised, which you have heard Me discuss. For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit." The Greek term for "baptized" (βαπτίζω, baptizō) signifies an immersion, indicating a profound transformation and empowerment. 3. The Ascension of Jesus Acts 1:9-11 describes Jesus' ascension: "After He had said this, they watched as He was taken up, and a cloud hid Him from their sight." The ascension signifies Jesus' exaltation and the completion of His earthly mission, affirming His divine authority and the promise of His return. 4. The Apostolic Witness Acts 1:8 emphasizes the role of the apostles as witnesses: "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." The Greek word for "witnesses" (μάρτυρες, martyres) underscores the apostles' role in testifying to Jesus' life, death, and resurrection. 5. The Unity and Prayer of the Early Church Acts 1:14 describes the early believers' unity and devotion to prayer: "They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers." The Greek term for "joined together" (ὁμοθυμαδόν, homothymadon) conveys a sense of harmony and single-mindedness in their purpose. 6. The Selection of Matthias Acts 1:21-26 details the selection of Matthias to replace Judas Iscariot: "So they proposed two men: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. Then they prayed, 'Lord, You know everyone's heart. Show us which of these two You have chosen.'" This theme highlights the importance of divine guidance and the fulfillment of Scripture in leadership within the church. Prayer Points Pray for a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit in your life and the Church, empowering believers to fulfill their mission. Ask God to help you be a bold and faithful witness for Christ in your daily interactions. Seek unity and a spirit of cooperation within your church community, fostering an environment of love and support. Trust in God's timing and wisdom for the plans He has for your life, asking for patience and discernment. Pray for guidance in decision-making, that you may seek and follow God's will in all areas of life. Answering Tough Questions 1. (Acts 1:9–11) How can Jesus’ ascension into the sky be reconciled with natural laws? 2. (Acts 1:3) Are there any sources outside the Bible that confirm Jesus’ post-resurrection appearances for forty days? 3. (Acts 1:6–7) Why does Jesus avoid giving a clear timeline for restoring Israel, if that was a central hope for Jews? 4. (Acts 1:12–14) Why is there no archaeological or historical record of the gatherings of these early believers in Jerusalem? 5. (Acts 1:21–26) How reliable is the process of selecting a new apostle by casting lots, and why isn’t it used elsewhere? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Jesus' command to stay in Jerusalem and wait for the Holy Spirit demonstrate the importance of God's timing? 2. What does the apostles' question about restoring the kingdom to Israel reveal about their understanding of Jesus' mission? How does Jesus respond, and what does it tell us about our call as Christians? 3. How does the ascension of Jesus connect to His promise of the coming Holy Spirit? What implications does this have for your understanding of the Trinity? 4. How did the disciples respond to the departure of Jesus? What can we learn from their actions? 5. Why do you think the apostles felt it was necessary to replace Judas? How does this apply to leadership roles in the church today? 6. What role did prayer play in the early Church as seen in this chapter? How does it challenge your personal prayer life? 7. What does the unity among the disciples teach us about community in the church? 8. How does the selection process of Matthias demonstrate the combination of human decision and divine guidance? 9. The disciples were called to be witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. How does this mandate apply to you in your current context? 10. How can we prepare ourselves for the coming of the Holy Spirit, as the apostles did? 11. How does the description of Jesus' ascension impact your understanding of His divine nature? 12. What steps can you take to ensure that you are listening and obedient to God's call on your life, just like the early disciples? 13. How does the disciples' continual prayer inspire you to incorporate prayer into your daily routine? 14. How can you promote unity in your local church or Christian community, following the example of the early believers? 15. How does Jesus' assurance of the Holy Spirit's power inspire you to share the Gospel? 16. Why is it important to seek God's guidance when making decisions, as seen in the selection of Matthias? 17. What are the practical implications of being a witness for Christ in your daily life? 18. How can you remain expectant of Jesus' return, as promised by the two men in white? 19. In what ways can we bear witness to Jesus in our contemporary society, just like the apostles did in their time? 20. How does the anticipation of the Holy Spirit's arrival in this chapter challenge your understanding of His role in your life? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions