In our Bible studies this year, we will be looking at the book of Acts, one of the most exciting books of the Bible, telling us the history of the early church and showing us how the works of Jesus continued even after His ascension to heaven.
For many, this book charts the birth of the church, showing how the gift of the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost turned the disciples from fearful followers to bold evangelists, how Jesus can turn even the most hardened opponent (Saul, who breathed out murderous threats against Christians, believing them to be misguided and heretical) to the most radical of apostles (Paul, whose missionary journeys form a large part of the book and whose letters make up a large part of the New Testament.) It’s a book of miracles and healings (but also one of persecution and hardship, reminding us that the Christian journey requires faithfulness and endurance), a book of mission and a message that literally changed the world. For many, it’s a blueprint of what the church should be like, though the underlying reality throughout is that God’s will will triumph, even when our imperfections – which are told with total candour – get in the way.
Acts is the second part of Luke’s accounts of the works of Jesus (the first being the Gospel bearing his name) and is told with passion, authority, authenticity and vigour, reminding us that God is sovereign over all. If we want to learn how to pray, worship, serve and evangelise, all in the power of the Holy Spirit, there is no better place to look than this book – so do join us for Bible studies on every alternate Thursday, starting on 10th January at 7:30 p.m.
