1. Introduction to Acts: Acts of the Holy Spirit

2. The Placement in the Canon Between the Gospels and the Epistles Connection/Link Between Life of Jesus and that of Church Demonstrates that Gospels serve as background for all Acts provides the platform for all the epistles

3. Intro to Acts Author Luke Second volume – the Gospel of Luke being first volume

4. Date 80-90 AD Shortly after the Gospel of Luke Destination Theophilus – lover of God Cousin of Domitian?

5. Purpose Narrative of history Preserve the background of the NT church Explanation of the Spirit Describes the practical outworking of the Spirit

6. Theme The Gospel overcomes all barriers. The Spirit empowers for effectiveness and witness.

8. Themes World Mission Providence of God Power of the Spirit Inclusive Gospel Importance of Faithful Witness Triumph of Gospel

9. Barriers Crossed Geographical Barrier Social Barrier Racial Barrier Sexual Barrier Cultural Barrier