Luke/Acts for Beginners

As disciples of Jesus we are committed to learning and obeying His teachings. Among these is the direction to make disciples by baptizing them and teaching them to observe (obey) all that He commanded (Matthew 28:18-20). As Paul became a disciple, he recognized this charge and responded to it. We learn from his example how to do this ourselves. Paul follows the pattern of recognizing his calling, being set apart for the work, and being commended or charged to go forward. Today we must respond by becoming aware of how our abilities can be used for our Lord's service and focusing on putting these gifts into practice. Paul would teach about how each of us contributes to the Lord's service (I Corinthians 12, Romans 12).

Paul expected to receive a ready and willing audience among the Jews. He would be able to discuss with them that Jesus was the Messiah. The Jews would understand their history and prophecies. Paul received mixed receptions. Sometimes he was welcomed and several believed. At other times, Paul was rejected and would move on.

We see also that Paul began to realize quickly that he would be moving to teach the Gentiles (see Acts 13:44-52).

Frequently a new convert will try to teach family and friends about their conversion and teach them about Jesus. The expectation is that since family and friends know them they would be willing to listen to them. Sadly, all too often the opposite happens. The message and messenger are rejected. Rather than becoming discouraged, we should recognize the potential of this situation and continue to teach as we can and live as examples of Christ in an effort to eventually win them over. We should also continually look for opportunities to teach others.

The Jerusalem Council was brought about because of the belief that before Gentiles could become Christians they had to first convert to Judaism. This erroneous belief had the effect of causing disunity among believers and discouragement among Gentiles and others who were responding to the gospel. The apostles and other leaders in the Church recognized the danger of this and set out to resolve the issue. The result was that the Church resolved the issue, unity was restored and the Church continued to grow.

Of special note: In Matthew 16 and 18 Jesus stated that what the apostles decided here on earth would be recognized by God as binding. The apostles, elders and others present agreed with the solution offered by James. This then became the basis for continuing to teach about God's plan for reconciliation, and validated the simplicity of the gospel. No one has to do anything except what has been outlined in God's word. We must believe in our Lord, repent of our sins, submit to baptism and seek to live a faithful life as Jesus teaches.

The intent of this question is a call to action to use our gifts for the Lord's service. Answers will vary but look for responses that show how we recognize something in our lives we can use in service to Christ. Consider a brainstorming session on how we can use specific gifts to share the gospel.