ACTS
Pulpit Commentary Series
(54)
|
The Promised Power and Kingdom
This exposition examines the transition from our Lord’s earthly ministry to the church including the work of the Holy Spirit before and after Pentecost. Given the unique textual emphasis on issues pertaining to the promised earthly Kingdom for Israel, special consideration is presented refuting the errors of replacement theology (amillennialism) in favor of biblical premillennialism. |
Acts 1:1-11
|
|
Prayerful Preparations For Battle
This exposition examines the lives of the apostles and other believers in the days between the Lord’s ascension and Pentecost underscoring the priority of prayer, the perfection of prophecy, and the providence of God. |
Acts 1:12-26
|
|
The Filling of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost
After explaining the significance of Pentecost as it related to the seven convocations of Israel, this exposition examines the difference between the baptism and filling of the Holy Spirit and the purpose of the miracle of tongues during this transitional stage of God’s redemptive plan; tongues being a sign of judgment, blessing, and authority. |
Acts 2:1-13
|
|
Pentecostal Power and Promise
After discussing some of the ministries of the Holy Spirit unique to New Testament believers as recipients of New Covenant blessings at Pentecost, this exposition examines Peter’s response to the devout Jewish questioners taken from Joel’s prophecy, carefully distinguishing between those promises that were partially fulfilled at Pentecost and those that will be fulfilled when Christ returns. |
Acts 2:14-21
|
|
Proofs that Jesus was the Messiah
• This exposition examines four compelling arguments Peter used to prove that Jesus was indeed the Messiah, namely, because of His phenomenal power, His predetermined death, His promised resurrection, and His preeminent exaltation. Special consideration is also given to why God ordained evil to exist as a part of His plan and purpose to glorify Himself. |
Acts 2:22-36
|
|
The Nature of Genuine Repentance
After considering the Lord’s warnings concerning the difference between the narrow and wide gates claiming to lead to eternal life, this exposition examines four elements of real repentance that will always accompany genuine conversion, namely, the pain, price, promise, and product of repentance. |
Acts 2:37-41
|
|
Essentials of a True Church part 1
This exposition reveals the pristine nature of the first church by examining their commitment to well defined spiritual priorities, namely, their devotion to doctrine, fellowship, Christ, purity, unity, and prayer—a model for all churches to emulate. |
Acts 2:42-47
|
|
Essentials of a True Church part 2
This exposition examines six measurable spiritual fruits that will inevitably result from those committed to the six well defined spiritual priorities discussed in part one. The six fruits include a fear of God, a supernatural power, a sacrificial oneness, a lasting joy, a godly reputation, and a pattern of genuine conversions. |
Acts 2:42-47
|
|
In the Name of Jesus
This exposition examines three unique aspects surrounding Peter’s miraculous healing of the man lame from birth, namely, the sovereign summons, the supernatural sign, and the shocking sermon. Special consideration is given to the false claims of modern faith healers in the heretical “Word Faith” movement. |
Acts 3:1-6
|
|
Repentance and the Promised Kingdom
This exposition examines Peter’s sermon, looking primarily at three categories, namely, the constant of Bible prophecy, the cleansing of repentance, and the certainty of the Messianic Kingdom. Special consideration is given to the doctrines of repentance and premillennialism. |
Acts 3:17-26
|
|
Victory in Persecution
After reviewing the issue of the rise of persecution against Christians in the world today, especially in the United States, this exposition examines the provocation of persecution and the counteraction to persecution delineated in the text in six principles we should manifest. |
Acts 4:1-31
|
|
God's Priority For Purity in the Church
This exposition examines several key virtues manifested in the character of the first century church, namely, their spiritual unity, self-less love, and Spirit empowered preaching. Special consideration is also given to the character of contrasting Christians and God’s judgment upon deceptive and self-promoting Christians. |
Acts 4:32 - 5:11
|
|
Holiness—Key to Power and Protection
After contrasting the issues deemed important by the modern proponents of neo-evangelical pragmatism with those praised by God in New Testament churches, this exposition examines three vital truths that launched the early church into a mighty fortress, namely, the early saints were honorable in holiness, empowered in evangelism, and as a result, they persevered in persecution. |
Acts 5:12-41
|
|
Principles of Church Conflict Resolution
This exposition examines the unique problems of the first church and the solutions used to resolve them. From this several important principles emerge that can also be applied to bring resolution to conflict in a local church. |
Acts 6:1-7
|
|
Marks of a Choice Servant of God
This exposition contrasts the world’s definition of a successful man with God’s perspective as seen in the character of Stephen; a man praised by God because he was full of faith and the Holy Spirit, full of grace and power, full of wisdom and the Spirit, and affirmed by God’s glory. |
Acts 6:8-15
|
|
The Time for Condemnation
This exposition contrasts the unbiblical ethos of evangelical pragmatism and postmodernism with the confrontational proclamation of truth modeled in Scripture, specifically focusing on Stephen’s defense before the Sanhedrin in which he was compassionate, courageous, biblically correct, confrontational and condemning. |
Acts 7:1-53
|
|
Fearless in the Face of Death
After reviewing what God has said regarding the staggering defiance of sinful man, this exposition examines the source and substance of Stephen’s spiritual power in the face of death, namely, His speech was Spirit empowered, His gaze was heavenward, and his heart was forgiving. |
Acts 7:54-60
|
|
Winds of Persecution and the Scattered Seed
After discussing the prevalence of evangelistic apathy in the western church today, this exposition examines four strategies that God uses to reconcile sinners unto Himself, namely, the winds of persecution, the willingness of common men, the work of previous laborers, and the Word of Christ and Him crucified. |
Acts 8:1-8
|
|
Marks of a Cultist
After considering some of the characteristics associated with cultic groups, this exposition examines four elements from the life of Simon Magus that are commonly found in cult leaders, namely, they want to be worshipped, they fashion their own religion, they try to purchase the grace of God, and they refuse to repent of their sin and renounce their past. |
Acts 8:9-24
|
|
The Work of Regeneration in Evangelism
This exposition unfolds four truths that emerge from Philip’s evangelism of the Ethiopian nobleman, namely, the author of regeneration is God, the agent of regeneration is the Holy Spirit, the instrument of the Holy Spirit is the Word of God, and the proof of regeneration is joyful obedience. |
Acts 8:25-40
|
|
The Transformation of a Chosen Servant
This exposition examines man’s responsibility in salvation as illustrated by Saul’s conversion, namely, he must humble himself to God’s revelation of the truth, he must commune with God in a contrite spirit, he must publicly profess Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, and as a result, he will persevere in the faith. |
Acts 9:1-31
|
|
The Heart of a Compassionate Shepherd
This exposition examines God preparing Peter to accept Gentiles into the church and also focuses on his private ministry where he has compassion on the forgotten, the lowly, and the despised. A special digression examines Don Piper’s popular book, “90 Minutes In Heaven.” |
Acts 9:32-43
|
|
Destroying the Dividing Wall
This exposition examines the historical context of the Old Testament dietary restrictions and how they became perverted by the Jews and Judaizers in the early church. Special consideration is given to the sovereign work of God in the lives of Cornelius and Peter as He united Gentiles and Jews together in the body of Christ. |
Acts 10:1-48
|
|
Counter Culture Christians
This exposition examines God’s ongoing process of dismantling the deep-seated prejudice Jewish believers had toward Gentiles. Special consideration is given to the error of replacement theology and its legacy of anti-Judaism exposing the reversal of prejudice now seen in the Gentile church’s disdain for Jews and Israel. |
Acts 11:1-30
|
|
The Politics and Penalty of Persecution
This exposition examines the events surrounding Peter’s miraculous prison deliverance in Acts 12 where three dominate themes emerge, namely, the politics of persecution, the power of prayer, and the penalty of pride. Special consideration is given to God’s unique judgment upon Herod for not giving Him glory. |
Acts 12:1-25
|
|
Antioch—A Spirit Filled Church
This exposition examines the dynamics of a Spirit filled church by looking closely at the church of Antioch that was defined by Spirit filled shepherds, Spirit led missions, and Spirit empowered warfare. |
Acts 13:1-13
|
|
The Exhortation of a Converted Rabbi
This exposition underscores the Judeo-centric ministry of Paul and examines his sermon to the Jews where he reminds them of God’s providential care for Israel, God’s promise of Israel’s Savior, and God’s passion for Israel’s salvation. Special consideration is given to Paul’s theology in contrast to replacement or fulfillment theology. |
Acts 13:13-41
|
|
Preaching to the Proud and Penitent
After reviewing the biblical mandate for preachers to preach the Word, this exposition contrasts common responses to gospel presentations from both the proud and the penitent. |
Acts 13:42-52
|
|
Combat Essentials
After comparing effective ministry to war and exposing various deceptions that unbelievers hold dear, including that of Liberation Theology, this exposition examines the final days of Paul’s first missionary journey and four combat essential that emerge from the text. |
Acts 14:1-28
|
|
The Jerusalem Council
This exposition examines issues confronting the nascent church including the heresy of salvation by works rather than grace alone, and the potential abuse of freedom that would disrupt unity and destroy the church’s effectiveness. |
Acts 15:1-35
|
|
Marks of Effective Missions
This exposition underscores four ministry priorities that emerge out of Paul’s second missionary journey, namely, edify the evangelized, choose companions wisely, study the culture, and yield to God’s providence. |
Acts 15:36-16:10
|
|
The Seeker and the Soothsayer
This exposition focuses on three remarkable spiritual realities that come to light in this fascinating encounter, namely, the providence of God, the preparation of grace, and the power of the gospel. |
Acts 16:11-18
|
|
Mercy to a Jailer and His Household
This exposition is divided into four categories, each of which are filled with doctrinal truths that are immensely practical in the Christian life, namely, the rage of anti-Semitism, the rejoicing of the prisoners, the rescue of the jailor, and the recant of the magistrates. |
Acts 16:19-40
|
|
Four Virtues the World Hates
This exposition examines the life and ministry of the apostle Paul that manifests four virtues the world hates, namely, purity of life, love for the lost, courage in preaching, and knowledge of the Word. |
Acts 17:1-13
|
|
A God Who Is Knowable
After discussing some astounding new discoveries in our solar system that glorify our Creator who has condescended to our lowly estate and revealed Himself to man through creation and His Word, this exposition examines the blasphemy of idolatry, the nature of God, and the revelation of God. |
Acts 17:16-34
|
|
Divine Comfort in Dire Circumstances
This exposition examines the profound difficulties that Paul experienced in his ministry along with four divine blessings that are characteristic for all believers, namely, the joy of friendship, the fruit of labor, the presences of God, and the sovereignty of God. |
Acts 18:1-17
|
|
Growing in Grace and Knowledge
This exposition examines both the heritage of Judaism in Christianity and the process of transition from Judaism and John’s baptism to Christianity by discussing the consecration of Paul, the education of Apollo, and the conversion of Old Testament saints. |
Acts 18:18 ~ 19:7
|
|
Encountering Evil with Overpowering Force
This exposition underscores the supernatural power of the Word of God demonstrated in this historical account, examining specifically the human labor of evangelism, the divine hardening of hearts, the demonic exploitation of Christ, and the supernatural conversion of sinners. |
Acts 19: 8-20
|
|
The Adventure of Ministry
After reflecting on the bondage of boredom, this exposition examines four categories of ministry insights seen specifically in a miracle of divine providence, a mandate to remember the poor, a madness called idolatry, and a marvel of divine intervention. |
Acts 19:21-41
|
|
Rare Passions and Forgotten Priorities
This exposition underscores the essential elements in true Christian ministry by examining Paul’s passion to preach, his love for both sinners and saints, and his disinterest in money. Consideration is also given to doctrinal concerns regarding Sabbath keeping, the cessation of signs and wonders, and the promises of the millennial age. |
Acts 20:1-17
|
|
Shepherding the Shepherds
This exposition examines the virtues of Paul’s example in life and ministry that we are to emulate, namely, he was a faithful shepherd, a humble slave, a suffering servant, a fearless preacher, and a zealous evangelist. |
Acts 20:17-24
|
|
Elder Essentials
This exposition underscores five priorities that Paul exhorted the elders of Ephesus to heed, namely, proclaim the whole of Scripture, guard the integrity of your heart, protect the flock from false teachers, devote yourself to prayer and the Word, and give more than you receive. |
Acts 20:25-38
|
|
Valiant Faith
This exposition highlights three characteristics of Paul’s faith, namely, it seeks opportunities for fellowship, it is sensitive to the Spirit’s leading, and it fears no enemy. |
Acts 21: 1-17
|
|
Mission Accomplished
This exposition focuses on three scenarios that characterize this historical narrative, namely, a praiseworthy report, a threat from false allegations, and a unifying exercise of Christian liberty. Special consideration is given to the issue of Christian liberty and the dangers of contextualization in evangelism and worship. |
Acts 21:17-26
|
|
The Violence of Hypocrisy
This exposition examines the historical account of Paul’s arrest in Jerusalem and his testimonial defense to his Jewish kinsmen. Special consideration is given to the hallmarks of hypocrisy and why it is so prone to violence. |
Acts 21:27-29
|
|
A Suffering Servant and Our Sovereign God
This exposition examines four themes that emerge from the historical narrative of Paul’s defense before the Sanhedrin, namely, the purview of God’s sovereignty, the power of a clear conscience, the priority of submission to the Word of God, and the presence of God in suffering. |
Acts 22:30~23:11
|
|
The Futile Conspiracy
This exposition highlights certain aspects of this historical narrative while at the same time focusing on the providence of God in the history of Israel and His unfailing love for His chosen people. Special consideration is also given to Israel’s rejection of her Messiah in contrast with God’s faithfulness to fulfill His covenant promises to her. |
Acts 23:12~35
|
|
The Prisoner and the Trembling Judge
This exposition focuses on various doctrinal truths and life applications that flow from four themes that emerge from the text: the Sanhedrin’s vague accusations, the apostle’s successful refutation, the governor’s expedient placation, and the apostle’s frightening confrontation. |
Acts 24:1-27
|
|
The Apostle's Appeal
This exposition highlights three scenarios that give insight into living out our faith in a hostile world that hates Christ. Further consideration is given to Paul’s attitudes during this season of persecution and how every believer must emulate them in his life as well. |
Acts 25:1-12
|
|
A Spectacle of Contrasts
This exposition of Paul’s testimony before Agrippa examines a spectacle of four stark contrasts worthy of our consideration, namely, the contrasts of justice and injustice, humility and pride, sight and blindness, and faith and folly. |
Acts 25:13-26:32
|
|
Horror and Hope at Sea
This exposition examines the details of the narrative as well as four themes that emerge from it, namely, the ravages of sin upon man and creation, the ever-present hand of an omnipotent and merciful God, and further validation of the Scripture’s repeated claim to be the very Word of God. |
Acts 27:1-44
|
|
Principles of Godly Leadership
This discourse examines the text from the perspective of Paul’s stunning leadership role during his fateful voyage. From his example, ten principles of Godly leadership are identified and practically applied to Christian leaders. |
Acts 27:1-44
|
|
Malta: Refuge and Rejoicing
This exposition highlights the magnificent works of God demonstrated in the Malta scenario, namely, His providence, provision, and power. Special consideration is also given to the contrast between the God of the Bible and the gospel Paul preached with the god and gospel of neo-evangelicalism. |
Acts 28:1-16
|
|
To the Jew First
This exposition examines Paul’s meeting with the Jews in Rome, investigating in particular the meaning of the “kingdom of God” and “the hope of Israel” in refutation of amillennialism, while at the same time underscoring the principles of Jewish evangelism, the polarization of the gospel, and the pathos of Israel’s unbelief. |
Acts 28:17-31
|