When I first started this training program, I was very impressed with how familiar I would become with the scriptures, in particular the book of Acts. However, now what I have become even more impressed with is just how useful the book of Acts is when it comes to teaching, no matter if it is in a Bible study with faithful brethren or converting someone from a different denomination. Generally, when we talk about what we can prove with Acts, we mention the subject of baptism, and we are not wrong. But there is so much more we can prove. Some of what we can prove from Acts, especially when used in connection with the context of other passages, include:
- The establishment of the church (Acts 2:46-47; Daniel 2:31-44; Joel 2:28-32; Isaiah 2:1-4).
- Speaking in tongues is not a form of angelic language (Acts 2:1-12).
- The existence of Hades (Acts 2:25-28; Psalm 16:8-11; Luke 16:22-24).
- The laying on of hands was not only for giving spiritual gifts (Acts 4:3;5:18; 6:6;13:3).
- Appointing of men of the congregation for specific duties (Acts 6:3-6).
- Spiritual gifts could only be given by the apostles (Acts 8:14-19).
- Once saved always saved is not true (Acts 8:13-22).
- Preaching Jesus includes baptism (Acts 8:8-12, 35-37; 10:34-43, 46-48).
- Baptism is essential for salvation (Acts 11:13-17).
- The law of Christ is the only law we follow (Acts 15:22-28).
- Paul is not a false apostle (Acts 15:25-26; Galatians 2:1-9).
- All the various ways men receive the gospel (Acts 17; 2:37; 7:54).
- Only the baptism of Christ will save (Acts 18:24-26; 19:1-5).
- The Lord’s Supper is to be taken on the first day of the week (Acts 20:7).
- Baptism is how we call upon the name of the Lord (Acts 22:16; 2:21; Romans10:13).
- We must be a respecter of governing authorities (Acts 23:2-5; Romans 13:1-2).
Amazingly, that is only some of the lessons found in the book of Acts. If we sat down and spent even more time reading the book, there are many other lessons that can be found. The point is, every book in the Bible has power, and multiple lessons can be taken from them and used for others. Just because a book seems very dry, or seems very plain as a list of stories does not mean it is not beneficial in some way. Most of us know and can tell others that Peter preached on the day of Pentecost; but it means much more being able to tell someone that Peter preached of Jesus, and in doing so showed fulfillment of prophecy and gave reason as to why Jesus should be worshipped. Most people recognize Paul as a great man because of his missionary journeys. but it means much more that there is inspired proof that he was an apostle and accurately taught the gospel of Christ. It is my hope that through this list we all can have a better understanding of the book of Acts, and perhaps in the future we can use this knowledge to convert someone who has not obeyed the gospel.
Oren Caskey
