Acts in Action

Rev. Lettie Carr facilitates a bible study series titled "Acts in Action," focusing on the book of Acts to understand discipleship and disciple-making. The series examines examples of those who walked with Jesus, especially those discipled directly by him, to learn how to follow Christ and make other disciples. The book of Acts covers the three decades immediately following Jesus' death and resurrection, depicting what Jesus' disciples did after his ascension, contrasting with the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John) which focus on Jesus' actions. Acts is considered "part two" of the book of Luke, both written by Luke to Theophilus. Luke, a meticulous physician and researcher, compiled eyewitness accounts since he was not an apostle.

A key concept is the Great Commission from Matthew 28:18-20, where Jesus commanded his disciples to "make disciples of all nations, baptizing them... teaching them to observe everything that I have commanded you". Acts demonstrates how the apostles implemented this charge.

The study emphasizes Jesus' appearances for 40 days after his resurrection, providing "many convincing demonstrations, unquestionable evidences, and infallible proofs".

These appearances include:

•Mary Magdalene

•Disciples behind closed doors

•Two on the road to Emmaus

•Doubting Thomas

•Over 500 brethren at one time

•James and other apostles

•Paul (after ascension)

Crucially, Jesus commanded his disciples to wait in Jerusalem for the Father's promise: the Holy Spirit. Unlike John's water baptism, they would be "baptized with the Holy Spirit". The Holy Spirit is identified as God ("Now the Lord is the spirit"), and referred to as the "Comforter, Counselor, Helper, Intercessor, Advocate, Strengthener, and Standby". He lives within believers, teaching them, reminding them of Jesus' words, and testifying about Jesus. The Holy Spirit provides the power needed for believers to overcome challenges, resist temptation, and live holy lives, enabling them to do "even greater works" than Jesus did collectively. Without the Holy Spirit, one does not belong to Christ. The series encourages accepting Christ to receive the Holy Spirit's power.