Week 25

THE SPREAD OF THE GOSPEL

The public work of Jesus began from his baptism in the river Jordan, the river over which Joshua and Israel had passed. Jesus travelled throughout his own country before his death, preaching about God's Kingdom (Luke 8:1).

After ascending to heaven, Jesus continued to work through his apostles in spreading the Gospel outwards from Jerusalem.

The Gospel was first preached to the Jews, then Samaritans, then Proselytes (converts to Judaism - like the Ethiopian in Acts 8:27). Then the Gentiles (non-Jews) were called (Acts 10).

Map of Israel at the time of the Apostles

DAILY NOTES

SUNDAY
Acts 8		 Notice the continued importance of belief in the things concerning the Kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, followed by baptism (verses 12, 37-38).
MONDAY
Acts 9		 Paul too believed and was baptised (verse 18). See Acts 22:16. His sins were forgiven at baptism.
TUESDAY
Acts 10		 Even a good living man like Cornelius (verse 2) had to learn what he must do (verse 6). He believed (verses 42-43) and was baptised (verse 48).
WEDNESDAY
Acts 11		 Gentiles as well as Jews can inherit the promises of life (verse 18). Notice the first occurrence of the word 'Christian' (verse 26).
THURSDAY
Acts 12		 Although the disciples had prayed for Peter's release from prison (verse 5), they were taken by surprise when the answer came (verses 12-15).
FRIDAY
Acts 13		 Christ's resurrection from the dead (verses 30-37) had been foretold in Psalm 16:10. He will fulfil other Old Testament prophecies such as 2 Samuel 7:13. We can be linked with this - see Isaiah 55:3.
SATURDAY
Acts 14		 We can take courage; the door of faith is still open (verse 27).