Acts Overview – Set 1 (Chapters 1–4)
The Holy Spirit Comes and the Church Begins
1. Summary of the Chapters
- Chapter 1: Jesus appears to His disciples after the resurrection, promises the Holy Spirit, and ascends into heaven. Matthias is chosen to replace Judas among the twelve.
- Chapter 2: On Pentecost, the Holy Spirit fills the disciples, enabling them to speak in other languages. Peter preaches boldly, and about 3,000 people believe and are baptised. The believers devote themselves to teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer.
- Chapter 3: Peter and John heal a lame man at the temple gate. Peter preaches to the astonished crowd, proclaiming Jesus as the risen Messiah.
- Chapter 4: Religious leaders arrest Peter and John but cannot deny the miracle. They command them not to preach Jesus, but the apostles boldly declare their allegiance to God. The believers pray for boldness, and the Spirit fills them again.
2. Key Themes and Lessons
| Theme | Lesson |
|---|---|
| Power of the Spirit | The Holy Spirit empowers ordinary people for extraordinary witness. |
| Bold Witness | The apostles proclaim Christ without fear, even under threat. |
| Community Life | The early church lived in unity, generosity, and devotion. |
| Healing and Signs | Miracles confirm the truth of the gospel and reveal God’s compassion. |
| Obedience to God | True disciples obey God above human authority. |
3. Encouragement
Acts begins where the Gospels leave off—Jesus ascends, but He doesn’t leave us alone. He fills us with His Spirit!
Pentecost wasn’t a one-time event—it was the birth of a new way of living: God inside of man.
Sister, that’s your reality. You’re not waiting for power—you have received power to be His witness.
Look at Peter: the one who denied Jesus now preaching with fire and 3,000 saved. That’s what grace does.
And when the authorities said, ‘Stop speaking,’ they said,
‘We cannot help but speak of what we’ve seen and heard.’
That’s you too—bold, Spirit-filled, unstoppable!
4. Reflection Questions
- How does Jesus’ promise of the Spirit change the way I see my own mission?
- What does Pentecost teach me about living empowered by the Spirit daily?
- How can I grow in devotion like the early believers—teaching, fellowship, prayer, and generosity?
- Where do I need courage to obey God rather than people?
- How can I step into boldness to share Jesus, like Peter and John?
Acts Study – Set 2 (Chapters 5–8)
Growth, Persecution, and the Spreading of the Gospel
1. Summary of the Chapters
- Chapter 5: Ananias and Sapphira lie about their offering and fall dead, showing the seriousness of holiness. Signs and wonders increase, and the apostles are arrested, but an angel releases them. They boldly continue preaching despite threats.
- Chapter 6: As the church grows, seven deacons (including Stephen) are appointed to serve, freeing the apostles to focus on prayer and the Word. Stephen is recognised for his wisdom and power, but opposition rises against him.
- Chapter 7: Stephen gives a powerful speech recounting Israel’s history and accusing the leaders of resisting the Spirit. He is stoned, becoming the first Christian martyr, and forgives his killers as he dies. Saul (later Paul) approves of his execution.
- Chapter 8: Persecution scatters the believers, spreading the gospel beyond Jerusalem. Philip preaches in Samaria with signs and miracles. He later explains the Scriptures to an Ethiopian official, who believes and is baptised—carrying the gospel toward Africa.
2. Key Themes and Lessons
| Theme | Lesson |
|---|---|
| Holiness Matters | God calls His people to integrity and truth. |
| Boldness in Opposition | The Spirit empowers believers to stand firm under pressure. |
| Faithful Witness | Stephen shows that even in death, God’s glory shines through forgiveness. |
| Gospel Expansion | Persecution cannot stop the gospel—it spreads it further. |
| Divine Appointments | God leads Philip to the Ethiopian, showing the gospel is for all nations. |
3. Encouragement
Look at Stephen—stones flying, anger raging, but his eyes fixed on Jesus.
He saw the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God!
Sister, no circumstance can steal your vision of Him unless you let it.
And Philip—led by the Spirit to one man in a desert road. Do you see it?
This Kingdom is personal. It’s not just about crowds—it’s about the one right in front of you.
Persecution scattered the church, but it only spread the fire. That’s the same fire in you.
Do not live in fear—the Spirit in you is unstoppable!
4. Reflection Questions
- What does the story of Ananias and Sapphira teach me about integrity before God?
- How do I respond to opposition—do I shrink back, or stand bold like the apostles?
- What inspires me about Stephen’s witness, and how can I reflect that courage?
- How do I see God turning difficult circumstances into opportunities for the gospel?
- Who might be my “Ethiopian”—someone God is preparing for me to share the gospel with?
Acts Study – Set 3 (Chapters 9–12)
Saul’s Conversion, Peter’s Ministry, and the Church’s Growth
1. Summary of the Chapters
- Chapter 9: Saul persecutes the church, but on the road to Damascus he encounters Jesus in a blinding vision. He is healed, baptised, and begins preaching Christ. Meanwhile, Peter heals Aeneas and raises Tabitha (Dorcas) from the dead.
- Chapter 10: Cornelius, a Gentile centurion, has a vision to send for Peter. Peter also receives a vision of clean and unclean animals, teaching him that the gospel is for all. Peter preaches to Cornelius’ household, and the Holy Spirit falls on them.
- Chapter 11: Peter explains to the Jerusalem believers how God gave the Spirit to Gentiles. The church in Antioch grows as Gentiles believe, and Barnabas and Saul (Paul) minister there. Believers are first called “Christians” in Antioch.
- Chapter 12: King Herod persecutes the church, killing James and imprisoning Peter. An angel miraculously frees Peter from prison. Herod is struck down by God, and the word of God continues to spread.
2. Key Themes and Lessons
| Theme | Lesson |
|---|---|
| Conversion Power | Saul’s radical transformation shows no one is beyond God’s reach. |
| Gospel for All | The Spirit confirms salvation is for Jews and Gentiles alike. |
| Unity and Growth | The church flourishes in Antioch, marked by discipleship and generosity. |
| God’s Deliverance | Persecution cannot stop God’s plan—He rescues and advances His mission. |
| God’s Sovereignty | Herod’s downfall shows earthly powers cannot stand against the Kingdom. |
3. Encouragement
Think about Saul—breathing threats, hunting Christians—yet Jesus met him on the road and changed everything. That’s grace! No one is too far gone.
And Cornelius? A Roman soldier, yet God poured out His Spirit on him and his house.
Sister, this gospel is not exclusive—it’s for all. Do not ever limit who God can reach through you.
And when Peter was chained in prison, the church prayed, and heaven moved. That’s the power of agreement.
The word of God will never be chained.
Neither are you—you are free to shine His Kingdom everywhere you go!”
4. Reflection Questions
- How does Saul’s conversion encourage me about God’s power to change lives today?
- What does Cornelius’ story teach me about God’s heart for all nations and people?
- How can I follow the example of the Antioch church in discipleship and generosity?
- Where do I need to trust God’s deliverance more fully when facing opposition or fear?
- How does Herod’s downfall remind me of God’s sovereignty over earthly powers?
Acts Study – Set 4 (Chapters 13–16)
Paul’s First Missionary Journey and the Jerusalem Council
1. Summary of the Chapters
- Chapter 13: The Holy Spirit sends out Barnabas and Saul (Paul) from Antioch. They preach in Cyprus and Pisidian Antioch. Paul proclaims Jesus as the fulfilment of God’s promises, and many Gentiles believe, though opposition rises.
- Chapter 14: Paul and Barnabas continue preaching in Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe. They heal a crippled man, are mistaken for gods, and then persecuted. They strengthen disciples, appoint elders, and return to Antioch reporting all God had done.
- Chapter 15: A council in Jerusalem debates whether Gentile believers must follow the law of Moses. The apostles and elders, led by Peter and James, affirm salvation is by grace through faith in Christ, not by the law. Paul and Barnabas continue to encourage the churches.
- Chapter 16: Paul begins his second journey with Silas after parting ways with Barnabas. Timothy joins them. Paul receives a vision calling him to Macedonia. In Philippi, Lydia believes and is baptised, and Paul and Silas are jailed, but an earthquake frees them. The jailer and his family are saved.
2. Key Themes and Lessons
| Theme | Lesson |
|---|---|
| Mission by the Spirit | The Spirit sends, leads, and empowers gospel mission. |
| Faith and Opposition | The gospel advances even through persecution. |
| Salvation by Grace | The Jerusalem Council confirms that salvation is through Christ alone. |
| Partnership in Mission | God uses teams, discipleship, and encouragement to grow the church. |
| God’s Power in Weakness | In prison, Paul and Silas worship—and God’s power shakes the place. |
3. Encouragement
See how it began—the Spirit said, ‘Set apart Barnabas and Saul,’ and they went.
That’s how Kingdom life works—you live sent.
And when the Gentiles believed, it shook the old mindset: salvation is not law, it’s grace.
That’s your freedom too!
And in Philippi, beaten and chained, Paul and Silas sang.
Sister, your praise is not dependent on circumstances. Praise shakes prisons.
Even the jailer who chained them ended up free.
That’s the power of the gospel—it turns persecutors into brothers.
Live like you’re free, because you are, and let the Spirit send you every day.
4. Reflection Questions
- How can I live more aware of the Spirit’s sending and leading in my life?
- Where have I seen God use opposition to strengthen or advance the gospel?
- How does the Jerusalem Council’s decision about grace shape my walk with Christ?
- Who are the “partners in mission” God has placed around me, and how can I build them up?
- How can I praise God in hard circumstances, trusting Him to move in power?
Acts Study – Set 5 (Chapters 17–20)
Paul’s Missionary Journeys and Farewell to the Elders
1. Summary of the Chapters
- Chapter 17: In Thessalonica and Berea, Paul preaches the Scriptures; some believe, others oppose. In Athens, he addresses the Areopagus, proclaiming the “unknown God” as the true Creator and Judge, calling all people to repent.
- Chapter 18: Paul ministers in Corinth, staying with Aquila and Priscilla. Many believe, including Crispus, a synagogue leader. The Lord encourages Paul in a vision. Apollos, an eloquent teacher, is instructed more fully by Aquila and Priscilla.
- Chapter 19: In Ephesus, Paul’s ministry leads to dramatic healings and deliverance. Many burn their sorcery scrolls. A riot breaks out because silversmiths fear losing business from idol-making.
- Chapter 20: Paul encourages believers on his way back through Macedonia and Greece. In Troas, Eutychus falls from a window and is raised to life. Paul gives an emotional farewell to the Ephesian elders at Miletus, urging them to shepherd God’s flock faithfully.
2. Key Themes and Lessons
| Theme | Lesson |
|---|---|
| Faithful Witness | Paul preaches boldly to Jews, Greeks, philosophers, and idol-worshippers alike. |
| Encouragement and Discipleship | The church is built through teaching, mentoring, and strengthening believers. |
| Power of the Gospel | True repentance transforms lives, leading people to renounce idols and sin. |
| Opposition and Perseverance | The gospel often provokes resistance, but God’s power prevails. |
| Leadership and Shepherding | Paul models humility, sacrifice, and care for the church. |
3. Encouragement
Paul in Athens—surrounded by idols—didn’t shrink back.
He said, ‘What you worship as unknown, I proclaim to you.’ That’s boldness.
And in Corinth, the Lord said, ‘Do not be afraid, I am with you.’
Sister, that’s His word for you too.
In Ephesus, they burned their old ways—because when the gospel comes, it changes everything.
And when Paul spoke to the elders, with tears, he reminded them: shepherd the flock, not for gain, but with love.
That’s Kingdom leadership—serving, not ruling.
Live like Paul—undaunted, Spirit-led, pouring yourself out for others.
4. Reflection Questions
- How can I boldly share the gospel with people from different worldviews or backgrounds?
- What does Paul’s encouragement of believers teach me about building others up in faith?
- Where is God calling me to renounce old patterns and live in the freedom of repentance?
- How can I stand firm in the face of opposition or discouragement?
- What does Paul’s farewell teach me about humility, leadership, and caring for God’s people?
Acts Study – Set 6 (Chapters 21–24)
Paul’s Arrest and Defence Before Authorities
1. Summary of the Chapters
- Chapter 21: Paul journeys to Jerusalem despite warnings of danger. He is welcomed but soon accused in the temple of stirring unrest. A riot erupts, and Roman soldiers arrest him, sparing him from the mob.
- Chapter 22: Paul gives his testimony before the crowd, recounting his encounter with Jesus on the Damascus road. The crowd rejects him when he speaks of being sent to the Gentiles. Paul reveals his Roman citizenship, protecting him from scourging.
- Chapter 23: Paul stands before the Sanhedrin, divides the Pharisees and Sadducees by proclaiming resurrection hope, and is nearly torn apart. That night, the Lord encourages him: “You must testify about Me in Rome.” A plot to kill him is exposed, and he is transferred to Caesarea.
- Chapter 24: Paul defends himself before Governor Felix, testifying of his faith in Jesus and the resurrection. Felix delays judgment, hoping for a bribe, but Paul remains imprisoned, yet continues to witness.
2. Key Themes and Lessons
| Theme | Lesson |
|---|---|
| Courage in Witness | Paul boldly shares his testimony, even in hostile settings. |
| God’s Protection | Despite plots and threats, God preserves Paul to fulfil his mission. |
| Resurrection Hope | The resurrection remains central to Paul’s defence and message. |
| Obedience in Suffering | Paul’s chains become a platform for the gospel. |
| God’s Sovereignty | Jesus assures Paul his journey to Rome is part of God’s plan. |
3. Encouragement
Paul knew prison and mobs, but he never lost sight of Jesus’ word: ‘You will testify in Rome.’
That’s the power of promise—you can face anything when you know your purpose.
And when he stood before rulers, he didn’t defend himself—he preached Christ.
Sister, your life is your testimony. Don’t wait for perfect conditions to share it.
Even in chains, Paul was free, because freedom is not about circumstances—it’s about union with Christ.
Remember: you carry resurrection hope, and no power on earth can silence that.
4. Reflection Questions
- How does Paul’s courage in hostile situations challenge me in sharing my own faith?
- Where have I experienced God’s protection while walking in obedience?
- How central is the resurrection in the way I share the gospel with others?
- How can I see suffering or limitation as a platform for the gospel instead of an obstacle?
- What promises of God keep me anchored in purpose and boldness?
Acts Study – Set 7 (Chapters 25–28)
Trials, Shipwreck, and Paul in Rome
1. Summary of the Chapters
- Chapter 25: Paul appeals to Caesar when accused before Festus. King Agrippa expresses interest in hearing him.
- Chapter 26: Paul testifies before Agrippa, sharing his conversion story and proclaiming Christ’s death and resurrection. Agrippa is almost persuaded to believe.
- Chapter 27: Paul sails toward Rome but is caught in a violent storm. Despite danger, Paul encourages everyone that God promised no lives would be lost. The shipwrecks on Malta, yet all survive.
- Chapter 28: On Malta, Paul survives a snake bite unharmed and heals many sick people. Eventually he reaches Rome, where he preaches the Kingdom of God and teaches about Jesus boldly, even while under house arrest.
2. Key Themes and Lessons
| Theme | Lesson |
|---|---|
| Testimony | Paul consistently shares his story, pointing to Christ’s power and resurrection. |
| God’s Faithfulness | Even in storms and shipwrecks, God keeps His promises. |
| Courage in Mission | Paul never lets chains, trials, or setbacks silence the gospel. |
| Kingdom Unstoppable | From Jerusalem to Rome, the Word spreads despite opposition. |
| Every Place a Mission Field | Whether before kings, sailors, or strangers on Malta, Paul lives sent. |
3. Encouragement
Picture Paul in chains before Agrippa—he wasn’t defending himself, he was preaching Christ. That’s freedom!
And on that storm-tossed ship, everyone thought it was over, but Paul said, ‘Take heart, God has spoken.’
Sister, storms don’t define you—His promise does.
Even shipwrecked on Malta, he healed the sick and revealed Jesus. Do you see it?
Nothing can stop the Kingdom when you know who you are in Him.
Chains, courts, storms, or prisons—none of it silenced Paul, and none of it can silence you.
You carry the unstoppable gospel!
4. Reflection Questions
- How can I use my personal testimony to point others to Christ, like Paul did?
- Where do I need to trust God’s promises in the middle of life’s storms?
- How can I live with courage and boldness, even when facing trials or setbacks?
- What does Paul’s example teach me about seeing every place—home, work, travel—as a mission field?
- How can I live more fully in the truth that God’s Kingdom is unstoppable?
Overall Summary of Acts
1. Big-Picture Summary
The book of Acts is the story of the risen Jesus continuing His mission through the Holy Spirit working in His people. It begins in Jerusalem with the outpouring of the Spirit at Pentecost and ends in Rome with Paul boldly preaching the Kingdom, showing that the gospel cannot be contained by persecution, prison, or politics.
Acts highlights the birth of the church, the spread of the gospel from Jews to Gentiles, and the unstoppable advance of the Kingdom from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth. It reveals the Spirit’s power at work in ordinary believers, turning them into bold witnesses who transform communities, cultures, and nations.
2. Major Movements
- The Spirit Comes (Chs. 1–4): Ascension, Pentecost, first preaching, and the early church’s unity.
- Growth and Opposition (Chs. 5–8): Miracles, persecution, Stephen’s martyrdom, and the gospel spreading beyond Jerusalem.
- Conversion and Expansion (Chs. 9–12): Saul’s conversion, Peter’s ministry, and Gentiles receiving the Spirit.
- Missionary Journeys (Chs. 13–20): Paul’s missions through Asia Minor and Europe, planting churches and strengthening believers.
- Trials and Rome (Chs. 21–28): Paul’s arrest, trials before rulers, shipwreck, and gospel witness in Rome.
3. Key Themes and Lessons
| Theme | Lesson |
|---|---|
| Power of the Spirit | The Holy Spirit empowers ordinary believers to live and witness boldly. |
| Bold Witness | Opposition does not silence the gospel—it fuels its spread. |
| Salvation for All | Jews, Gentiles, men, women, rich, poor—all are invited into God’s Kingdom. |
| Suffering as Witness | Persecution and trials become platforms for testimony. |
| Unstoppable Kingdom | From Jerusalem to Rome, the Word of God continues to advance. |
4. Encouragement
Acts isn’t just history—it’s your inheritance.
The same Spirit that fell at Pentecost lives in you.
Look at Peter, who denied Jesus, now preaching with fire.
Look at Paul, once a persecutor, now proclaiming the faith he tried to destroy.
Sister, that’s transformation. And no prison, no storm, no court could stop the Kingdom. Why?
Because the Kingdom isn’t built on circumstance—it’s built on Christ.
You’re part of that same story. You’re not here to survive—you’re here to shine.
Live bold, live free, live filled with the Spirit, and let the world see Jesus through you.”
5. Reflection Questions
- How does the story of Acts inspire me to rely more deeply on the Holy Spirit?
- Where might God be asking me to step out in boldness to share Jesus?
- How does the example of persecution in Acts challenge my view of suffering?
- What does it mean for me personally that the gospel is for all people?
- How can I live daily in the truth that God’s Kingdom is unstoppable?
Related Resources for the Acts of the Apostles
For those who would like to go deeper, the following PDF resources have been created to accompany this book.
- The Acts of the Apostles – A Guided Heart-Transformation & Devotional Encounter
- Wholly Yours: The Acts of the Apostles – Activation Challenge Cards
- Wholly Yours: The Acts of the Apostles – Chapter Reflection Question Cards
- Wholly Yours: The Acts of the Apostles – Encounter Moment Cards
- Wholly Yours: The Acts of the Apostles – Father’s Voice to Your Heart Cards
- Wholly Yours: The Acts of the Apostles – Identity Declaration Cards
- Wholly Yours: The Acts of the Apostles – Intimate Prayers of Surrender & Encounter Cards
- Wholly Yours: The Acts of the Apostles – Key Themes & Lesson Cards
- Wholly Yours: The Acts of the Apostles – Words of Encouragement Cards
- Wholly Yours: The Acts of the Apostles Bundle ( Includes all the 9 products above)