Acts: Adventures in Christianity

The books of Acts is exciting as God gives the disciples special ability through the Spirit to speak foreign languages to preach truth to all people. Then the bond of the church compells us as they have their goods in common. They're certainly not focused on getting ahead financially or competing with one another. Yet, in the midst of this goodwill is a lie in an effort to appear "spiritual" and a tragic consequence--the story of Ananias and Sapphira.
Next God sends Peter to the Gentiles. Christ's substitutionary death, the gift of salvation, is for them as well. God gets a hold of the persecutor of Christians and transforms even his name from Saul to Paul. He becomes a missionary along with Silas and Barnabas and Priscilla and Acquila encourage him. Early Christians struggle with knowing what regulations to place on Gentile converts. The missionaries face persecution, imprisonment, and see God at work in those situations. Timothy and Lydia are examples of Christ followers determined to be of service to God and His people, His church. Paul is brought before government officials concerned about his influence on others, trying to figure out what to do with him and he uses every opportunity he can to share his faith. On the way to Caesar in Rome, Paul's caught in a shipwreck. God keeps him safe. Even in Rome under house arrest, Paul continues to preach the gospel. Certainly leaves us without excuse in being bold and committed to sharing our faith.