◄ Acts 1 ►
Book Study • Verse Study • Study Que
Summary The Ascension Acts 1 beautifully lays the groundwork for the birth and expansion of the early Church. From the ascension of Jesus to the promise of the Holy Spirit, it emphasizes the transformation of the apostles from mere followers to leaders. It illustrates that God equips those He calls, promising the Holy Spirit's power for the mission ahead. This chapter also highlights the importance of prayer and unity within the Christian community. It encourages us to remain expectant and prayerful, knowing that God is always at work. Verses 1-5: Jesus' Final Instructions and Promise The Book of Acts begins by recounting Jesus' ministry and His instruction to the apostles through the Holy Spirit after His resurrection. During these forty days, Jesus presented Himself to the apostles and gave many convincing proofs that He was alive. He also tells them not to leave Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father—"the gift of the Holy Spirit." Verses 6-11: The Ascension of Jesus As the apostles gather around Jesus, they ask if He is going to restore the kingdom to Israel. Jesus responds by saying it's not for them to know times or seasons the Father has set by His own authority, but they will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon them and they will be His witnesses to the ends of the earth. After saying this, Jesus ascends into heaven while the apostles watch. Two men dressed in white appear and tell them that Jesus will come back in the same way they have seen Him go into heaven. Verses 12-14: The United Prayer of the Disciples The apostles return to Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives and continually devote themselves to prayer, along with the women and Jesus' mother Mary, and His brothers. Verses 15-26: The Replacement of Judas During this time, Peter addresses the group of about 120 believers. He speaks about the prophecy of Judas' betrayal of Jesus and his subsequent death. The disciples then select two men—Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias—as potential replacements for Judas. After praying for guidance, they cast lots, and Matthias is chosen to become an apostle. 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. 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. 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. 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. Bible Study 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? 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. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions