Acts of Apostles #1: The foundation of their work Acts 1:1-12
A study of this book is a natural follow on to a study in the life of Christ. The record of the Apostles’ ministries given in this account is the sequel to Luke’s gospel, 1:1, Luke 1:1-14. It is the historical narrative that develops the closing words of Mark’s gospel—the Lord at work with and through His servants as they went in obedience to the great commission He had given.
This book records the advance of the gospel program established by the Saviour to build His church/kingdom in the earth. It was advanced primarily through the personal labours of the Apostles. Not all the Apostles feature in the record—the labours of Peter and special of Paul dominate the account. However, it is clear from various recorded facts that their labour is marked by a harmony and consistency, not least because it was labour coordinated by the Spirit of God at work in them.
The foundation or basis of the work of the Apostles is set out in the introductory section of this chapter. It is seen to involve the following.
I IT WAS BUILT UPON THE LIFE AND MINISTRY OF THE LORD JESUS HIMSELF.
- What Jesus Himself did and taught, v1. There is a continuity that is vital to recognize here. The Apostles continued the work of Christ! Cp Matt 28:19, 1Cor 3:10-11, Heb 2:3, 2Pet 1:10-12. The completeness of this is seen in Luke’s words:
- all that Jesus began both to do and teach…, v1. Everything they laboured in was the continuation of what Jesus did! He began the work which they continued.
- Until the day… Everything the Saviour did right up till the moment of His ascension shaped the ministry of the Apostles. Nothing that He did was irrelevant to their continued work.
- Jesus’ commands through the Holy Ghost, v2. The ministry these men exercised was by Divine commission/command. The language indicates a further level of continuity with Christ’s work. It was His choice and His command that authorized their work but it was communicated by the Spirit. The Holy Ghost’s ministry is Christ’s ministry among men. Cp John 14:26, 15:26, 16:13-15.
II THE DOCTRINE OF THE RESURRECTION.
Cp v3.
The emphasis in these verses on the establishment of the resurrection indicates that this truth played an important role in the ministries they exercised. For 40 days this truth was pressed upon them especially—to whom… The Apostles would preach as men sure He was alive.
- Undeniable evidence, v3. ‘Many proofs’ were provided and the Apostles were left in absolutely no doubt He was alive. Cp v4, 10:41
- Their ministry depended on this single fact. Such conviction is necessary to their continued service! Cp Rev 1:17-19. This doctrine featured very often in the recorded discourses/sermons in this book. It was a central theme to the message they preached.