By Dr. Mark Scott It is hard not to overstate the significance of the conversion of Saul of Tarsus. His conversion story is told three times in Acts (9:1-19a; 22:6-11; 26:12-18). God used Peter to open the door of faith to Jews, Samaritans, and Gentiles. But God would need a universal man who would be […]
By Dr. Mark Scott The four lessons of October focus on the two most famous apostles (Peter and Paul) giving bold testimony. Three of the lessons focus on Peter’s bold testimony. Peter used Jesus’ “keys” (Matthew 16:19) to open the door of faith to the Jews (Acts 2:1-47). Now Peter, with great help from Philip, […]
By Dr. Mark Scott Opposition always hurts. It especially hurts when it comes from kin. Stephen found that out. The second internal challenge that the church faced (certain widows were being neglected in the daily distribution of food) caused the church to select seven men to handle this oversight (Acts 6:1-6). One of those seven […]
By Dr. Mark Scott The first internal challenge to the church had been put to rest (literally) through the deaths of Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5:1-11). Interestingly enough though, the apostles were revered for their miracles, and the church grew (5:12-16). Luke continues the account of the early church by telling of the second external […]
By Mark Scott In Luke’s summaries of the earliest church, we see it at its best (Acts 2:42-47; 4:32-37). The gospel was being preached, people were being saved, a congregation was being planted, communion was being celebrated, and giving was off the charts. Who would not want to be part of a church like that? […]
