The Holy Spirit, a Powerful Gift: Book of Acts part 2, David Fiorazo

The book of Acts could be called “The Acts of the Holy Spirit through the Apostles.” The Spirit directed and empowered the early church and caused it to grow in numbers, spiritual power, and influence. Luke, the author of Acts, was Paul’s close friend, traveling companion, and personal physician, and also a careful researcher and an accurate historian. (See Luke 1:1-4)

The book of ACTS chronicles the spread of the gospel, the birth and growth of the church. Luke also records the mounting opposition to the gospel as well as the initial response to the Great Commission. Acts is the first work of church history ever written, providing information on the first three decades of the church’s existence. Its emphasis is that Jesus of Nazareth was Israel’s long-awaited Messiah; it shows the gospel is offered to all people not just the Jews, and stresses the work of the Holy Spirit - mentioned more than 50 times.

Key verses:
But I tell you the truth, it is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him to you. John 16:7

"but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses…" Acts 1:8

Corinthians 2:12 “Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things freely given to us by God.

Other Scriptures referenced:
Acts 16:10
Luke 24:44-53
Acts 1:7-8
Ephesians 1:18-20
John 14:16-17, 25-26
Acts 1:12-20
Psalm 69:25
Psalm 109:8
1 John 4:4
Romans 8:11

*Sermon from September 18, 2016. David Fiorazo, Crossroads Church in Sturgeon Bay, WI

Sep 30, 2016