Lessons
Fellow Laborers


Saturday Bible Study Class 11-22-2025

Bible 101 – Lesson 13: The Acts of the Apostles

Presented by Israel Ministries
www.israelministries.org

Bible 101 – Lesson 13

The Acts of the Apostles

Israel Ministries | www.israelministries.org

The Continuing Story of Redemption

Yeshua's Work Continues

The ministry of the Messiah extends through His faithful disciples, empowered by divine presence.

Birth at Shavuot

The Assembly is born as the Holy Spirit descends with power on the day of Pentecost.

Spirit's Outpouring

The promise of the Father manifests in miraculous signs and prophetic utterance.

Restoration of Israel

The ancient faith of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob finds its fulfillment and renewal through the risen Messiah.

Gospel Expansion

From Jerusalem to Judea, Samaria, and the uttermost parts of the earth, the message spreads throughout the diaspora.

Journey Through Acts

Twelve Essential Movements

01

Final Instructions

Yeshua's last words to His disciples before ascending

02

Ascension

The Messiah returns to the Father in glory

03

Matthias Chosen

Restoring the twelve apostles

04

Shavuot Outpouring

The Spirit descends with power

05

Peter's Message

The first proclamation of the risen Messiah

06

Early Assembly Life

Unity, fellowship, and devotion mark the community

01

Miracles & Boldness

Signs, wonders, and courageous witness

02

Challenges

Persecution, martyrdom, and internal trials

03

Paul's Rise

From persecutor to proclaimer

04

Gentiles Receive the Gospel

The Spirit falls on all who believe

05

Paul's Missions

Journeys across the Roman world

06

Paul in Rome

Bold proclamation from captivity

Yeshua's Final Instructions

Acts 1:1–8

The Kingdom Remains Central

Before His ascension, Yeshua spent forty days speaking to His disciples about the Kingdom of God. This wasn't abstract theology—it was the continuation of everything He had taught during His earthly ministry. The Kingdom was never abandoned; it was about to expand in unprecedented ways.

His final instruction was clear: "Wait for the promise of the Father." The disciples were not to begin their mission in human strength or wisdom. They needed the Ruach HaKodesh—the Holy Spirit—who would empower them to be witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.

"You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be my witnesses."

— Acts 1:8

The Ascension of the Messiah

Acts 1:9–12 | Daniel 7:13–14

1

The Moment of Departure

As the disciples watched, Yeshua was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. This wasn't merely a disappearance—it was a royal procession into the throne room of heaven.

2

The Prophetic Fulfillment

Daniel 7 describes "one like a son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven" who approaches the Ancient of Days and receives dominion, glory, and an everlasting kingdom. What the prophet saw in vision, the apostles witnessed in reality.

3

The Angels' Promise

Two angels appeared, dressed in white, declaring that this same Yeshua would return in the same manner—visibly, bodily, gloriously. His departure was not an ending but a transition.

The Son of Man ascends to receive all authority in heaven and on earth. From the Mount of Olives, He departs in glory, taking His rightful place at the Father's right hand. His ascension is both departure and enthronement—He goes to prepare the way and to rule until all enemies are made His footstool.

Restoring the Twelve

Acts 1:15–26

The Significance of Matthias

After Judas's betrayal and death, the apostles faced a vacancy among the Twelve. This wasn't merely about filling a position—it was about restoring the symbolic representation of Israel.

The Twelve apostles correspond to the twelve tribes of Israel. Yeshua Himself promised they would sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes. To leave the number at eleven would be incomplete, a broken symbol of a broken people.

Peter stood among the 120 believers and explained the necessity: someone who had been with them from John's baptism through the ascension must be chosen to be a witness of the resurrection. They prayed, cast lots according to ancient custom, and Matthias was numbered with the eleven apostles.

The Outpouring at Shavuot

Acts 2:1–21 | Joel 2:28–32

The Sound of Wind

Suddenly, from heaven, came a sound like a mighty rushing wind, filling the entire house where they were sitting. The Ruach HaKodesh—the breath of God—swept into the room with undeniable power.

Tongues of Fire

Divided tongues as of fire appeared and rested upon each of them. Fire—the symbol of God's presence from the burning bush to Mount Sinai—now rests upon ordinary men and women.

Speaking in Tongues

They began to speak in other languages as the Spirit gave them utterance. Jews from every nation heard the wonders of God proclaimed in their own native tongues—a reversal of Babel's confusion.

This was no random day. Shavuot—the Feast of Weeks, Pentecost—commemorated the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. Now, fifty days after Passover, the Spirit writes the Torah on hearts of flesh. Joel's prophecy finds its fulfillment: God pours out His Spirit on all flesh, and everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.

"In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people."

— Joel 2:28

Peter's Bold Proclamation

Acts 2:22–36

The First Gospel Sermon

Standing before thousands of confused and curious onlookers, Peter—the same man who had denied Yeshua three times—now boldly declares the truth. His message is clear, structured, and rooted entirely in Scripture.

He begins with Yeshua of Nazareth, a man attested by God through miracles, wonders, and signs. Though delivered up according to God's predetermined plan, lawless men crucified Him. But God raised Him up, breaking the bonds of death.

"Let all Israel know with certainty: God has made this Yeshua, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah."

— Acts 2:36

Peter quotes David, Solomon, and Joel—showing that Torah and Prophets unite in testimony. Yeshua is the fulfillment, the one whom the Scriptures foretold. The response is immediate and powerful: three thousand souls repent, are baptized, and receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Life of the Early Assembly

Acts 2:42–47

Torah-Centered Devotion

The believers devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching—instruction rooted in the Hebrew Scriptures and the words of Yeshua. Their faith wasn't disconnected from the Law and Prophets but fulfilled through them.

Fellowship & Breaking Bread

They gathered regularly for communal meals, sharing food with glad and generous hearts. The breaking of bread was both a memorial and a celebration of Messiah's sacrifice and presence among them.

Constant Prayer

Prayer marked their days and nights—corporate intercession, personal devotion, and Temple prayers. They understood that their strength came from continual communion with God.

Unity in Action

All who believed were together and had all things in common. They sold possessions and distributed the proceeds to anyone in need. This wasn't mandated communism but voluntary, Spirit-led generosity.

Signs and Wonders

Many miracles were performed through the apostles, and awe came upon every soul. The power of the Spirit confirmed the message with tangible demonstrations of God's kingdom breaking into the present age.

Day by day, they continued in the Temple courts and from house to house. Their witness was winsome: praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.

Miracles and Boldness

Acts 3–4

1

The Healing

At the Beautiful Gate of the Temple, Peter and John encounter a man lame from birth. Peter declares, "In the name of Yeshua the Messiah, rise and walk." Instantly, the man's feet and ankles are made strong.

2

The Sermon

A crowd gathers in Solomon's Portico, and Peter seizes the moment to preach. He explains that this healing happened through faith in Yeshua—the Holy and Righteous One whom they rejected but God raised from the dead.

3

The Arrest

The religious leaders are disturbed by the apostles' teaching about resurrection. Peter and John are arrested and brought before the Sanhedrin—the same council that condemned Yeshua.

4

The Defense

Filled with the Holy Spirit, Peter boldly testifies: "Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven by which we must be saved." The council is astonished by their courage.

The authorities command them to stop speaking in Yeshua's name, but Peter and John respond with unwavering conviction: "We cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard."

Growth and Challenges

Acts 5–7

Ananias & Sapphira

A sobering lesson in purity and honesty—lying to the Holy Spirit brings divine judgment. The fear of the Lord falls upon the entire assembly.

Apostles Arrested Again

The high priest and Sadducees arrest the apostles, but an angel opens the prison doors at night. By morning, they're back in the Temple courts, teaching the people.

Gamaliel's Wisdom

When brought before the Sanhedrin, the apostles are beaten and ordered to stop preaching. But Gamaliel, a respected Pharisee, advises caution: "If this is of God, you cannot stop it."

Seven Deacons Chosen

As the assembly grows, disputes arise over the daily distribution to widows. Seven men full of the Spirit and wisdom are chosen to serve, allowing the apostles to focus on prayer and ministry of the word.

Stephen's Martyrdom

Stephen, one of the seven, performs great wonders and signs. But false witnesses accuse him of blasphemy. Brought before the council, he delivers a powerful sermon tracing Israel's history of resisting God's messengers.

His words cut to the heart—but not unto repentance. Filled with rage, they stone him to death. Yet Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, sees heaven opened and Yeshua standing at the right hand of God. His final words echo his Master's: "Lord, do not hold this sin against them."

"Look, I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God."

— Acts 7:56

Scattering and Conversion

Acts 8–9

Great Persecution

On the day of Stephen's death, a great persecution breaks out. Believers scatter throughout Judea and Samaria—but wherever they go, they preach the word. What the enemy meant for harm, God uses for expansion.

Philip in Samaria

Philip goes to Samaria and proclaims the Messiah. Signs and healings accompany his message, and many believe. Even Simon the sorcerer is amazed. Later, an angel directs Philip to an Ethiopian official on the desert road, leading to another conversion and baptism.

Saul Encounters Yeshua

Meanwhile, Saul ravages the assembly, breathing threats and murder. But on the road to Damascus, a light from heaven suddenly flashes around him. He falls to the ground and hears a voice: "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?"

From Persecutor to Proclaimer

Blinded by the light, Saul is led into Damascus. For three days he neither eats nor drinks. Then God sends Ananias to restore his sight and fill him with the Holy Spirit.

Immediately, Saul begins preaching in the synagogues that Yeshua is the Son of God. Those who hear him are astonished—isn't this the man who tried to destroy the believers in Jerusalem? But Saul grows more powerful, proving from the Scriptures that Yeshua is the Messiah.

This transformation is not merely personal—it's prophetic. God has chosen Saul (who will become known as Paul) to carry the name of Yeshua before Gentiles, kings, and the people of Israel.

The Gospel Reaches the Gentiles

Acts 10 | Acts 15

Cornelius's Vision

In Caesarea, a Roman centurion named Cornelius—a God-fearer who prays and gives generously—receives a vision. An angel tells him to send for Peter, who is staying in Joppa. Cornelius obeys immediately.

Peter's Vision

The next day, as Cornelius's messengers approach, Peter goes up on the roof to pray. He falls into a trance and sees heaven opened: a sheet descends containing all kinds of animals—clean and unclean. A voice commands, "Rise, Peter; kill and eat." Peter objects, but the voice responds, "What God has made clean, do not call common."

The Spirit Falls

Peter goes to Cornelius's house and preaches the gospel. While he's still speaking, the Holy Spirit falls on all who hear—Gentiles receive the same gift given to Jewish believers at Pentecost. Peter realizes that God shows no partiality.

The Jerusalem Council

As Gentiles continue to believe, questions arise: Must they be circumcised and keep the full Law of Moses? The apostles and elders gather in Jerusalem to discuss this crucial issue.

Peter testifies about Cornelius. Paul and Barnabas share reports of signs and wonders among the Gentiles. James, the leader of the Jerusalem assembly, gives the final word: Gentiles should not be burdened with the full yoke of Torah, but should abstain from idolatry, sexual immorality, and blood.

"God, who knows the heart, showed that he accepted them by giving the Holy Spirit to them, just as he did to us."

— Acts 15:8

Paul's Missionary Journeys

Acts 16–21

1

First Journey

Paul and Barnabas travel through Cyprus and Asia Minor, preaching in synagogues first, then to Gentiles. They face opposition, perform miracles, and establish assemblies in Antioch, Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe.

2

Second Journey

Paul revisits earlier assemblies, then receives the Macedonian vision: "Come over and help us." He travels to Philippi, Thessalonica, Berea, Athens, and Corinth—planting assemblies across Greece.

3

Third Journey

Paul spends three years in Ephesus, where extraordinary miracles occur and the worship of Artemis is challenged. He revisits Macedonia and Greece before heading back to Jerusalem, despite warnings of suffering.

The Synagogue-First Strategy

Paul's pattern is consistent: he goes to the synagogue first, reasoning from the Scriptures that the Messiah had to suffer and rise from the dead. When Jewish leaders reject the message, he turns to the Gentiles—but the gospel is always "to the Jew first, and also to the Greek."

Everywhere Paul preaches, assemblies are established. These communities are diverse, including both Jews and Gentiles, rich and poor, slaves and free. They meet in homes, practice hospitality, support one another, and hold fast to the apostles' teaching.

Paul in Rome

Acts 22–28

Arrest in Jerusalem

Paul returns to Jerusalem, where he's falsely accused of defiling the Temple. A riot erupts, and Roman soldiers rescue him. He addresses the crowd in Hebrew, testifying about his encounter with Yeshua.

Before the Sanhedrin

The next day, Paul stands before the council and declares, "I am a Pharisee, a son of Pharisees. I am on trial concerning the hope of the resurrection of the dead." This divides the council between Pharisees and Sadducees.

Appeal to Caesar

After two years of imprisonment in Caesarea under Felix and Festus, Paul exercises his right as a Roman citizen: "I appeal to Caesar!" This guarantees his journey to Rome.

Shipwreck and Survival

On the voyage to Rome, Paul's ship encounters a violent storm. After fourteen days adrift, the ship runs aground on Malta. All 276 people aboard reach land safely, just as Paul prophesied.

Preaching in Rome

Finally arriving in Rome, Paul lives under house arrest for two years. Yet he's far from silenced—he welcomes all who visit, "proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Yeshua the Messiah with all boldness and without hindrance."

"The message had to be spoken to you first. Since you reject it and do not consider yourselves worthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles."

— Acts 13:46

Acts ends not with Paul's release or martyrdom, but with him preaching freely in the heart of the empire. The gospel that began in Jerusalem has reached Rome—and it continues unhindered.

Hebrew Word of the Week

רוּחַ

RUACH

Pronounced: roo-AKH

Meaning: Spirit

The immaterial essence of God, dwelling within and empowering believers to live holy lives and fulfill divine purposes.

Meaning: Breath

The life-giving force from God's mouth, the same breath that animated Adam and sustains all living creatures.

Meaning: Wind

The invisible yet powerful movement of God's presence, as unpredictable and sovereign as the wind that blows where it wills.

Homework Assignment

Reflect on Acts and prepare to discuss these three foundational questions:

1

Genre

What type of literature is the book of Acts? Consider its narrative style, historical details, theological themes, and intended purpose. How does its genre shape the way we read and interpret it?

2

Purpose

Why did Luke write Acts? What messages was he communicating to his original audience? Think about the book's themes of witness, expansion, Spirit-empowerment, and the relationship between Jews and Gentiles.

3

Where Acts Fits

How does Acts connect to the rest of Scripture? Consider its relationship to the Gospels, the Torah and Prophets, and the letters of Paul. What unique role does it play in the biblical narrative?

Come prepared to share your insights and discuss with the group. Your thoughtful engagement with these questions will deepen your understanding of Acts and its continuing relevance for believers today.

Reflection Prompts

Engaging with the Message of Acts

1

How does Yeshua continue His work after the ascension?

Consider the relationship between Yeshua's earthly ministry and the apostles' work in Acts. How does the Holy Spirit enable believers to carry on what Yeshua began? In what ways is the Assembly the "body of Messiah" continuing His mission today?

2

What does Acts teach us about unity?

Examine the early believers' commitment to fellowship, shared meals, and communal support. How did they balance diversity (Jews and Gentiles, rich and poor) with unity? What challenges to unity arose, and how were they addressed? What can we learn for our own communities?

3

How does Acts strengthen our identity?

Reflect on how Acts connects believers to the promises made to Abraham, the covenants with Israel, and the prophecies of the Hebrew Scriptures. How does understanding the Jewish roots of the faith shape your identity as a follower of Yeshua? What does it mean to be grafted into the olive tree?

Take time this week to journal your responses to these questions. Share your reflections with a friend or your study group. Allow the truths of Acts to transform not just your thinking, but your daily walk with God.

Quiz Time

Test Your Knowledge of Acts

Quiz Questions (1–5)

1

What Jewish feast was being celebrated when the Holy Spirit was poured out in Acts 2?

2

Who was chosen to replace Judas as one of the twelve apostles?

3

What was the name of the man healed at the Beautiful Gate of the Temple?

4

Who was the first martyr of the early Assembly, stoned for his bold testimony?

5

What was Saul's name changed to after his conversion?

Quiz Questions (6–10)

1

What Roman centurion was the first Gentile to receive the Holy Spirit in Acts 10?

2

In which city did Paul spend three years during his third missionary journey, leading to a major confrontation with idol worship?

3

What did the Jerusalem Council decide Gentile believers must abstain from?

4

On which island was Paul shipwrecked on his way to Rome?

5

How did the book of Acts end—with Paul's release, his execution, or him preaching under house arrest?

Quiz Answers

Answer 1

Shavuot (Pentecost) – The Feast of Weeks, commemorating the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai, fifty days after Passover.

Answer 2

Matthias – He was chosen by lot to restore the number of apostles to twelve, symbolizing the restoration of Israel.

Answer 3

The text doesn't give his name – He is simply described as a man lame from birth who was healed by Peter and John.

Answer 4

Stephen – Full of faith and the Holy Spirit, he was stoned after delivering a powerful sermon tracing Israel's history.

Answer 5

Paul – After his dramatic conversion on the Damascus road, Saul began using his Roman name, Paul.

Answer 6

Cornelius – A God-fearing centurion in Caesarea who received a vision leading him to send for Peter.

Answer 7

Ephesus – Paul's ministry there challenged the worship of the goddess Artemis and led to extraordinary miracles.

Answer 8

Idolatry, sexual immorality, eating blood, and eating meat from strangled animals – These basic standards maintained holiness without requiring full Torah observance.

Answer 9

Malta – After a violent storm and fourteen days adrift, Paul's ship ran aground on this Mediterranean island.

Answer 10

Preaching under house arrest – Acts ends with Paul proclaiming the kingdom of God boldly and without hindrance for two full years.

Bible 101 – Lesson 13 Complete

The Acts of the Apostles

Thank you for journeying through the Book of Acts. May the Holy Spirit continue to empower you as a witness to the risen Messiah, just as He empowered the first believers.

Israel Ministries
www.israelministries.org

"You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

— Acts 1:8

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