To the Ends of the Earth

Acts 1:1-11

Key Verse 1:8

In studying the Lord’s Prayer, we learned what the Lord said needs to be done.  This passage teaches us how to carry it out practically.

1. Verse 1 indicates that Jesus' teaching method was "doing" first and then "teaching." Why do you think Jesus did this (i.e., teaching followed by doing or 'example setting')? 

** They supplement each other for doing has to do with practice while teaching has to do with theory. 

2. Read verse 2. This passage says that Jesus gave instructions "through the Holy Spirit." What does “giving instructions through the Holy Spirit” mean? Why is it important to give instructions "through" the Holy Spirit? 

** "Through" = via, or by way of. 

** The Holy Spirit is God himself, so with him working we can get the work of God done, no matter how difficult. The disciples are weak in many ways, and their abilities are limited. But God is different. God's Spirit comes with love and power among all other features.  

3. Verse 3a says that the Risen Jesus gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. Why are these proofs important? 

** This is important because as in Adam all die so also in Jesus all will be made alive. 1Co 15:22; Read John 14:19 also. 

 

4. Read verse 3b. Why did Jesus speak about the kingdom of God during this short and important period of time? 

** This is the final station of Jesus' work of redemption. It is like a man running the race to win the winner's prize. Read 1Co 9:26. 

5. Read verses 4-5. Jesus describes the Holy Spirit as a "gift". What does the word "gift" indicate about the Holy Spirit?

** Gift has the meaning of 'talent', indicating that when the Holy Spirit is with you, you will be doing what He wants you to do well.

 

6. Read verses 6-8. How were the disciples’ concerns different from that of God the Father?

** Their concern was narrow (limited to their nation) but God's concern is worldwide.  

7. Read verses 9-11. This passage talks about Jesus coming back as he had gone into heaven. Why is it important for the disciples [men of Galilee] to know this? 

** Jesus will reward those who need to be rewarded. 2Co 5:10; consider the parable of talents and the parable of minas. 

The end