UNDERSTAND THE STORY
The big picture.
- AUTHORSHIP
- Traditionally Luke, continuing the account begun in his Gospel.
- DATE & SETTING
- Often dated AD 70–90; dates vary.
- CENTRAL THEME
- The Spirit sends the church outward.
Acts follows the good news from Jerusalem toward Rome. The Holy Spirit empowers a diverse community to pray, share, endure opposition, and bear witness to the risen Jesus. Boundaries are crossed as Samaritans and Gentiles enter the church. Peter and Paul serve prominent roles, but the story belongs to God’s mission rather than a single hero. Disagreements and failures reveal a growing community learning to live the gospel together.
WORDS TO CARRY WITH YOU
Read. Return. Remember.
“But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me”
Acts 1:8 · KJV · excerpt
Read each verse in its surrounding passage. A key verse is an invitation into the story.
WHERE STUDY BECOMES PRACTICE
Live it.
Choose one step for today. Small, faithful actions matter.
- 01
Pray for courage to speak about your faith with gentleness.
- 02
Share a resource with someone in need.
- 03
Listen to a believer whose cultural background differs from yours.
PAUSE & REFLECT
A little room for your response.
Let this be a beginning.
Mark your study, return to the Scripture, and carry one faithful step into your day.
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An original SELAH37 study introduction. Historical dates and attributions are approximate and debated. Scripture: King James Version. Sources & translation notes.