Acts of the Apostles

The class covers the Acts of the Apostles, focusing on the continuation of Jesus' work after his resurrection. It emphasizes Jesus' authority and power given to him in heaven and earth, and his supervision of the apostles' work.

The class covers the background and commission of the apostles in Acts 1, emphasizing divine providence in Roman history and the preparation of the world for the spread of the gospel. It highlights the significance of the apostles' mission and the importance of unity within the ecclesia.

The class discusses the ascension of Jesus Christ as witnessed by the disciples on the Mount of Olives, emphasizing its significance for proving Christ's perfection and the truth of his teachings. It also covers the disciples' role in spreading the message of resurrection and the importance of witnessing Christ's ascension.

The class discusses the replacement of Judas Iscariot among the twelve apostles, emphasizing the importance of the number twelve in biblical contexts and Peter's role as leader. It also touches on ecclesial practices and the spiritual lessons from Judas's betrayal.

The class discusses the selection of Matthias as the twelfth apostle and the significance of Pentecost, emphasizing the resurrection of Christ and the coming of the Holy Spirit. It highlights the unity and purpose of the early Christian community and the miraculous events that occurred on that day.

The class discusses Peter's bold speech on the day of Pentecost, emphasizing the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the significance of Peter's transformation from a fearful disciple to a confident preacher. It highlights the themes of salvation, the resurrection, and the role of the Holy Spirit in preaching the gospel.

The class explores Peter's speech in Acts 2:22-36, emphasizing Jesus as a man approved by God, his sacrificial death, and resurrection. It contrasts the law's requirements with Jesus' fulfillment, highlighting the divine purpose behind his crucifixion and resurrection.

The class discusses Peter's sermon in Acts 2:22-36, focusing on how he uses David's prophecies to prove Jesus' resurrection and his role as the Messiah. The main lesson is that Jesus' resurrection fulfills the promises made to David and establishes him as both Lord and Christ, the cornerstone of the ecclesia.

The class covers Peter's sermon in Acts 2:32-40, emphasizing Jesus' resurrection and his role as Lord and Christ. It highlights the importance of faith, repentance, and baptism for salvation.

The class discusses Acts 2:42-47, emphasizing the early Christians' steadfast commitment to apostolic teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. It highlights the importance of practicing these teachings to understand their truth and the unity and favor the early ecclesia received from others.

The class discusses the healing of the lame man in Acts 3:1-11, emphasizing Peter's role and the importance of faith and miracles in spreading the gospel. It highlights the unity and cooperation between Peter and John despite their differences.

The class discusses Peter's testimony in Acts 3:12-26, emphasizing the source of the miracle as divine rather than human, and the importance of faith in Jesus for healing and salvation. It also touches on the contrast between Peter's humility and the papal system, and the covenant with Abraham as a basis for forgiveness and salvation.

The class discusses Acts 4:1-22, focusing on Peter and John's bold testimony before the Sanhedrin. It emphasizes the dramatic confrontation between the apostles and the religious authorities, highlighting the resurrection of Jesus and the power of his name.

The class covers Peter and John's report to the Ecclesia after their encounter with the authorities, emphasizing unity and boldness in the face of persecution. They discuss the importance of communal support and the power of the resurrection as a source of hope and strength.

The class discusses the first ecclesial problem involving Ananias and Sapphira, contrasting their actions with Barnabas' example of generosity. It emphasizes the consequences of sin, the importance of faith, and the impact of one's actions on the ecclesia and others.

The class covers the continuation of Acts chapter 5, focusing on the apostles' preaching success despite persecution. It emphasizes the apostles' defiance of the high priest and the Sadducees, their miraculous escapes, and the message of repentance and forgiveness.

The class discusses the first welfare crisis in the Ecclesia from Acts 6:1-7, focusing on the appointment of seven men to oversee the distribution of food to widows, allowing the apostles to continue preaching and praying. The class emphasizes the importance of integrity and transparency in handling sensitive matters like finances within the Ecclesia.

The class discusses Stephen's role in the early church, focusing on his wisdom, grace, and power as described in Acts 6:8-15. It highlights Stephen's conflict with Hellenist Jews and the political and religious implications of his teachings, emphasizing the importance of integrity and wisdom in ecclesial leadership.

The class covers Stephen's defense in Acts 7, focusing on Abraham's promise and inheritance. Stephen argues that God's promises are immutable and cannot be annulled by law, emphasizing the contrast between law and promise.

The class explores Stephen's speech in Acts 7, focusing on Moses as a type of Christ and emphasizing that God's purpose extends beyond the Jewish law and temple. It highlights the rejection of Moses and Jesus by the Jews and the broader inclusion of Gentiles in God's plan.

The class discusses Stephen's defense in Acts 7, focusing on Moses as a prophet like unto Christ. It highlights Moses' rejection by Israel and his role as a deliverer, emphasizing parallels with Christ's mission and the importance of faith and obedience.

The class covers Stephen's speech in Acts 7, focusing on the Israelites' rejection of God and their desire for idolatry, emphasizing that God's patience ran out and he gave them up. It also discusses the importance of faith and the consequences of turning away from God.

The class discusses Stephen's speech in Acts 7, focusing on the tabernacle of witness and its significance compared to the temple in Jerusalem. It emphasizes the immortality of Christ and the futility of earthly worship structures, contrasting legalism with true humility and faith.

The class covers Stephen's denunciation of the Sanhedrin in Acts 7:51-60, emphasizing their stiff-necked and uncircumcised hearts and ears, and their resistance to the Holy Spirit. It explores the implications of this denunciation, connecting it to broader themes of judgment, resurrection, and faith under trial.

The class covers Stephen's speech and death in Acts 7, emphasizing his wisdom and spirit. It highlights Stephen's martyrdom and the impact on Saul, who later becomes Paul.

The class discusses how the Roman Empire was prepared for the spread of the gospel, emphasizing the roles of Greek language, Roman law, and Hebrew influence. It highlights the divine preparation and timing of the gospel's dissemination, drawing parallels from Acts and Romans.

The class discusses the persecution of the early Christian church following Stephen's martyrdom, focusing on Saul's role in the persecution and his background as a Pharisee. It highlights how the persecution led to the spread of the gospel message throughout Judea and Samaria.

The class discusses Philip's preaching in Samaria, emphasizing the spread of the gospel and the importance of faith and repentance. It highlights Simon's conversion and subsequent attempt to purchase spiritual gifts, illustrating the need for genuine faith and humility.

The class covers Philip's encounter with the Ethiopian eunuch, emphasizing the significance of baptism and the spread of the gospel. Philip explains Isaiah's prophecy to the eunuch, leading to his conversion and baptism, illustrating the broader theme of salvation and the extension of the gospel to diverse audiences.

The class discusses the conversion of Saul of Tarsus as recorded in Acts 9:1-9, emphasizing his internal turmoil and transformation from a persecutor to a believer. It highlights the contrast between Saul's inhaling of bitterness and Jesus' breathing in of wisdom and righteousness.

The class discusses Paul's conversion in Acts 9:10-18, focusing on Ananias's role in restoring Paul's sight and commissioning him as a chosen vessel to preach to Gentiles, kings, and Israelites. It emphasizes Paul's transformation from persecutor to apostle through God's grace.

The class covers Paul's preaching in Damascus after his conversion, emphasizing his bold proclamation of Jesus as the Son of God and his subsequent challenges. It highlights Paul's unique teaching directly from Christ and his impact on early Christian communities.

The class covers Peter's mission in Acts 9, focusing on his healing of Aeneas and resurrection of Dorcas, emphasizing Peter's role in opening the door of faith to the Gentiles and overcoming Jewish prejudices.

The class discusses the calling of Cornelius in Acts 10, emphasizing his significance as the first official Gentile convert and the implications for the spread of Christianity. It highlights Cornelius's faith, his prayerful life, and the importance of baptism for salvation.

The class discusses Acts 10:9-16, focusing on Peter's vision and God's cleansing of all things, emphasizing the inclusion of Gentiles in the gospel message and overcoming Jewish prejudice.

The class covers Peter's visit to Cornelius's house, emphasizing the breaking down of barriers between Jews and Gentiles. Peter's realization that God does not show favoritism and that salvation is available to all who believe in Jesus is highlighted.

The class discusses the spread of the Gospel to the Gentiles in Acts 11:19-30, focusing on the spontaneous preaching of the Gospel by scattered Jews and the acceptance of Gentiles into the Christian community. It emphasizes the role of Barnabas and the collection of relief for Jewish believers in Judea.

The class covers the miraculous deliverance of Peter from prison and the judgment of Herod in Acts 12. It emphasizes the power of prayer and the role of angels in divine deliverance, contrasting Peter's release with James's martyrdom.

The class covers Paul's first missionary journey, focusing on Acts 13:1-13, highlighting the role of the Holy Spirit in directing the mission and the initial challenges faced in Cyprus. It emphasizes the importance of prophets and teachers in the ecclesia of Antioch and the spiritual growth of Paul.

The class discusses Acts 13:1-15, focusing on Paul and Barnabas's mission to open the door of faith to Gentiles. It highlights the challenges and setbacks they faced, emphasizing perseverance and faith in God's work.

The class covers Paul's speech in the synagogue at Antioch, focusing on Israel's history and God's providence, leading to the promise of a savior. The main lesson emphasizes salvation through faith in Jesus, not by adherence to the law.

The class explores Paul's speech in the synagogue at Antioch from Acts 13, emphasizing John the Baptist's testimony, the rejection of Jesus by Jerusalem's rulers, and the resurrection as proof of salvation through Christ rather than the law. The class also warns against rejecting the savior, drawing parallels to Habakkuk's prophecy.

The class discusses Paul's shift from preaching to Jews to Gentiles in Antioch of Pisidia, emphasizing the rejection of the message by Jews and the acceptance by Gentiles. It also touches on geopolitical issues, particularly Russia's aggression and the pipeline project, and concludes with a focus on Isaiah 49's prophecy about the salvation of Gentiles.

The class focuses on Acts 14, discussing Paul's preaching to Greeks and barbarians, emphasizing the commitment to spreading the gospel despite challenges and the importance of making disciples. The main lesson is about enduring tribulation for the faith.

The class discusses the events leading up to the Jerusalem Conference in Acts 15, focusing on the conflict between Jewish Christians and Gentile converts over the necessity of circumcision and adherence to the law of Moses. The main lesson is the importance of unity in the truth and the need to stand firm against legalism.

The class discusses the Jerusalem conference in Acts 15, emphasizing its critical role in establishing the acceptance of Gentiles into the faith without the need for circumcision. James uses Old Testament prophecies to support the decision, highlighting the importance of unity and faith in Christ's salvation.

The class discusses Acts 15:22-35, focusing on the implementation of the Jerusalem Council's decisions regarding Gentile converts. It covers the letter sent to Antioch and the confirmation of the Gentiles' inclusion in the truth, emphasizing the unity and support within the ecclesia.

The class covers Paul's second missionary journey, focusing on the conflict between Paul and Barnabas over taking John Mark along, and the establishment of the ecclesias through the decrees from the Jerusalem conference. It emphasizes the importance of unity and clear doctrine in ecclesial growth.

The class examines Acts 16:6-15, focusing on Paul's journey to Philippi and the establishment of the Philippians ecclesia. It emphasizes God's guidance through the Holy Spirit and the importance of faithfulness in ecclesial relationships.

The class focuses on Acts 16:16-40, discussing Paul and Silas's imprisonment in Philippi and the conversion of the jailer. It emphasizes the theme of suffering and perseverance in service to God, drawing parallels between Paul's experiences and the trials faced by Christadelphians.

The class covers Paul's preaching in Thessalonica, focusing on Acts 17:1-15. It discusses the city's history, Paul's three Sabbath days of preaching, and the subsequent persecution by Jews who were envious of his success.

The class discusses Paul's visit to Athens, focusing on the city's intellectual and cultural significance in the Roman Empire. It highlights the contrast between human wisdom and divine wisdom, emphasizing the futility of human philosophy and the importance of simple faith.

The class discusses Paul's speech on Mars Hill in Acts 17:22-34, where he addresses the philosophies of the Epicureans and Stoics, emphasizing the need for repentance and the resurrection of the dead. The main lesson is that true wisdom comes from God, not human philosophy.

The class discusses Paul's time in Corinth, focusing on his interactions with the local Jews and Gentiles, his baptism of Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, and the encouragement he receives from the Lord to continue his preaching despite initial challenges.

The class covers Paul's journey from Corinth to Ephesus, focusing on his interactions with the Jews and his departure for Jerusalem. It highlights the role of Priscilla and Aquila in instructing Apollos and emphasizes the importance of biblical knowledge and discipleship.

The class covers Paul's time in Ephesus, focusing on Acts 19:1-20. It discusses Paul's interactions with local disciples, his teaching in the synagogue, and his eventual separation from the synagogue to teach in Tyrannus' lecture hall. The class emphasizes the importance of discipleship and standing firm against slander and superstition.

The class discusses Acts 19:21-41, focusing on Paul's time in Ephesus and the riot caused by the silversmith Demetrius. It highlights Paul's purpose in the Spirit, the economic impact on craftsmen, and the broader context of Paul's ministry and its challenges.

The class covers the second stage of Paul's third missionary journey, focusing on Acts 20:1-5 and 2 Corinthians 9. It discusses Paul's journey from Ephesus to Macedonia and Greece, emphasizing his faithfulness in collecting funds for Jerusalem and his interactions with the Corinthian ecclesia.

The class covers Paul's third missionary journey, focusing on his return stage from Ephesus to Jerusalem, emphasizing his travels and meetings with ecclesias. It highlights the importance of the Jerusalem collection and Paul's urgency to reach Jerusalem before Pentecost.

The class covers Paul's speech to the elders of Ephesus in Acts 20, emphasizing his dedication to his mission despite warnings of danger. It highlights Paul's commitment to his faith and the responsibilities of ecclesial leadership, encouraging perseverance and rootedness in love.

The class covers Paul's journey towards Jerusalem, emphasizing his determination to preach to his people despite warnings and potential dangers. It highlights Paul's deep love for his Jewish brethren and the importance of doctrinal purity and prayer in the face of opposition.

The class discusses Acts 21:17-25, focusing on Paul's visit to Jerusalem and his interactions with James and the elders. It explores Paul's determination to reach Jerusalem despite warnings and his efforts to maintain unity among Jews and Gentiles through adherence to Jewish customs.

The class discusses Paul's arrest in the temple in Acts 21:26-40, highlighting the misunderstanding and persecution he faced from Jewish leaders and the crowd. It emphasizes Paul's perseverance and the broader context of divine judgment on Israel.

The class covers Paul's speech on the steps of the Antonia Fortress in Acts 22, focusing on his conversion and his mission to bring Jews to Christ. It emphasizes the importance of motivation and the transformative power of divine revelation.

The class covers Paul's appearance before the Sanhedrin in Acts 23, where he defends himself against accusations and highlights the division among the council. It emphasizes Paul's integrity and the contrast between his righteousness and the corruption of the Sanhedrin members.

The class examines Paul's trial before Felix in Acts 24, highlighting Paul's defense and Felix's character. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining a clear conscience and enduring trials with faith.

The class discusses Paul's defense before Agrippa II and Bernice in Acts 25, focusing on the political and legal challenges faced by Roman governors and the unjust treatment of Paul by the Jewish authorities. It emphasizes Paul's steadfast faith and his appeal to Caesar, highlighting the themes of judgment, resurrection, and the sacrifice of Christ.

The class discusses Paul's defense before King Agrippa in Acts 26, focusing on Paul's conversion and his mission to preach the gospel to both Jews and Gentiles. Paul emphasizes his commitment to the resurrection and the fulfillment of prophecies about Christ.

The class covers Paul's voyage to Rome, emphasizing the challenges and dangers faced, and draws parallels to the perseverance of faith and the importance of trusting God's promises despite difficult circumstances.

The class discusses Acts 27:21-44, focusing on Paul's leadership and faith during a stormy voyage to Rome. It emphasizes the importance of trusting God's promises and encouraging others in difficult times.

The class covers Paul's journey from Malta to Rome, emphasizing the kindness and miracles he encounters along the way, including healing Publius's father and the positive reception by Gentiles. It highlights Paul's perseverance and God's power in the face of opposition.

The class covers Paul's arrival in Rome and his interactions with Jewish leaders, emphasizing the message of the kingdom of God and the atonement. It highlights Paul's ability to teach without contention and the mixed reception of his message among the Jews.

The class concludes the Acts series with an emphasis on Paul's final message to the Jews in Rome, focusing on Acts 28:23-31. It explores Paul's fulfillment of his mission, the rejection of his message by some Jews, and the fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy about the unbelief of the people. The class also touches on the themes of salvation, the kingdom of God, and the balance between justice and mercy.