Acts (2010)

Resolution to the problem of distribution of aid to the widows introduces us to the seven men (more specifically Stephen), chosen by the new church on the basis of their qualifications of a Spirit-filled life resulting in wisdom. These qualities were manifested in their spiritual vitality, consistent walk and reputation among the body. Taking care of the less fortunate within a community is an individual responsibility, a volitional choice from the application of God’s Word which God doesn’t subvert by taking over the reins of our life. Leadership serves people not personal gain. Spiritual maturity discerns the difference. The result of the selection of these men was a division of authority which allowed pastors and administrators to focus on their number one priority.

The focus is the expansion of the church and how it was addressed by the apostles with the Holy Spirit working behind the scenes. This was not a smooth process. In fact, it led to hostile reactions, the death of Steven and persecution from the Jewish leadership. Ultimately, it forced upon the new church a scattering which led them to do what Jesus had commanded, to be witnesses in Judea and beyond. Does the process of legitimate growth sometimes bring growing pains and difficult change? In order to confront the problem of the inequity of distribution of aid to widows the apostles were challenged to become leaders whose skills were based on Biblical principles. What are essential leadership skills? The solution to this problem is the beginning of the idea of split roles in the church, the teaching ministry (spiritual) and the ministering to needs of the congregation (physical). In both, the key idea is service based on humility. A committee of seven was selected to minister to these physical needs. What do you

As we complete our study of Chapter 5, we revisit our battlegrounds. Are we weary, fatigued, or full of energy? We are reminded of the importance of learning to love the battle because of what the end game is. In vs. 33 a shift occurs that foreshadows a division among the Pharisees and Sadducees and we learn more about the Pharisees during the period of history in Acts. In this lesson, we are introduced to one of the foremost Pharisees, a rabbi who showed some sympathy toward Christianity and to Peter and the Apostles. We also see Peter and the Apostles suffer shame in His Name, as they endure flogging. Yet we are told they went away rejoicing. This brings into focus an example of their enthusiasm for the Gospel and shows us how to love the battles we are in, keeping the end game in mind - glorifying God.

Was it the Jewish people? Was it Pilate? Was it the Romans? This lesson examines how myths, both ancient and modern, along with revisionism have played a role in a flawed understanding of the Scriptural Truth and reason for Christ's crucifixion.

With a quick review of our study of Acts so far, we are again reminded of the righteous and gracious provisions for the poor. As we move further into this lesson, we learn that the overall theme of Acts is the story of the Holy Spirit and the Apostles. And we learn that Acts 4:32 to Acts 5:16 can best be described as a progress report on apostolic authority.

Dr. Dean referenced a YouTube-based video on economics in this class. You can view the video by clicking here.

Note: Due to technical difficulties, the first several minutes of the video are not available. However, the audio file (MP3) contains the entire class.

In our study of Acts, we are currently looking at what the Bible says about managing our resources. We are reminded that although God allows for flexibility within different cultures, His absolute social structures are universal and embedded in all of creation. Part of our personal responsibility is providing for others. In this lesson, we learn more of the righteous and gracious provisions for the poor.

In our study of Acts, we are currently engaging in a side study of economics - what the Bible says about managing our resources. In this lesson, we are reminded that although God allows for flexibility within different cultures, His absolute social structures are universal and embedded in all of creation. As we look at the Divine Institution of individual responsibility, we learn that the emphasis is on accountability in the areas of personal responsibility, property, and value. We learn that value is imputed by God to His creatures, but the value of His Word, God, and Jesus Christ are the only values of an intrinsic nature.

In our study of Acts, we are currently engaging in a side study of economics - what the Bible says about managing our resources. In this lesson, we look at Genesis 1 and 2 where we learn that universal absolute social structures are embedded in all of creation, and how we are to manage the resources we are given. As we study more about the Divine Institutions designed by God, we learn about the economics tied to these institutions and how the Trinity itself is economic. We are introduced to the concept of value and whether the Bible determines value subjectively or objectively.

As we continue in our study of Acts, the Biblical concept of labor, property, and value are in focus. With the many issues regarding these concepts in the forefront of today's headlines, it is important that we are certain we have the ability to use proper discernment - to think in a Biblical way. However, this can be very difficult when we live in a society with so many Romans 1:19 people. In this lesson, we take a close look at the current events of the continued attack on the nation of Israel by the world. We learn the significance of Israel being the apple of God's eye. And we begin a review of the framework of society - the Divine Institutions created by God.

As we continue in our study of the Biblical concept of labor, property, and value, many questions arise. Is Christian socialism legitimate? How do we define value? The Bible clearly teaches that we are to labor, so how does the Bible relate to modern day economics? How we answer these questions determines how our society prospers.

Acts is a transition book. It is a narrative description of some very important concepts about the Christian life in the Church age, but it is not a prescription. We see the transition from the Age of Israel to the Church Age. We see the dispensation of the Mosaic Law transition into the dispensation of Grace. And we see the transition of the church from mainly Jewish to Gentile. In this lesson we learn the Biblical concept of money, labor, and profit. We find out if the Bible says that "money is the root of all evil" and why the early Christians in Acts sold all their resources and layed them at the apostles' feet. Is this the example of what Christians are to do today?

The Importance of Prayer. Acts 4:25-37. October 11, 2011. As we review the mechanics of effective prayer: confession, gratitude, thanksgiving, intercession, and petition, we see these components applied in a powerful way by the apostles in the way they pray. But as believers in the Church Age, are we to include each of these components every time we pray in order to have an effective prayer life? As we observe more of these early believers, their actions and decisions cause some questions to arise. What was their motivation? Were their actions in keeping with a form of socialism sanctioned in Scripture? As we learn more about the importance of prayer, we are reminded of the impact our prayers have when we are focused and properly motivated.