Passion of Christ Matthew and early church

 

Here is a teaching bible study combining the passion of Christ as in Matthew- the last three chapters with the first five chapters of Acts which relate the birth and growth of the early Christian church. This shows what Jesus did for mankind to redeem sin, shows the one version of the great commission and also the first five chapters of Acts shows how it would be then carried out along with all of the signs and wonders but also persecution too of the church. It shows rapid growth too for it, for God is so powerful. At the end there will be a salvation prayer so you can also invite Jesus in your heart for this wonderful relationship.

            Starting off this bible study with the three chapters in Mark, 26, 27 and 28, which relate the passion of Christ, In Matthew chapter 26 Jesus has the last supper with His disciples and is then betrayed and arrested, and also Peter, as foretold denies Jesus three times. Jesus’ hearings begin in this chapter

(Matthew 26:1)  And it came to pass, when Jesus had finished all these sayings, he said unto his disciples,

 

(Matthew 26:2)  Ye know that after two days is the feast of the passover, and the Son of man is betrayed to be crucified.

 

(Matthew 26:3)  Then assembled together the chief priests, and the scribes, and the elders of the people, unto the palace of the high priest, who was called Caiaphas,

 

(Matthew 26:4)  And consulted that they might take Jesus by subtilty, and kill him.

 

(Matthew 26:5)  But they said, Not on the feast day, lest there be an uproar among the people.

 

(Matthew 26:6)  Now when Jesus was in Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper,

 

(Matthew 26:7)  There came unto him a woman having an alabaster box of very precious ointment, and poured it on his head, as he sat at meat.

 

(Matthew 26:8)  But when his disciples saw it, they had indignation, saying, To what purpose is this waste?

 

(Matthew 26:9)  For this ointment might have been sold for much, and given to the poor.

 

(Matthew 26:10)  When Jesus understood it, he said unto them, Why trouble ye the woman? for she hath wrought a good work upon me.

 

(Matthew 26:11)  For ye have the poor always with you; but me ye have not always.

 

(Matthew 26:12)  For in that she hath poured this ointment on my body, she did it for my burial.

 

(Matthew 26:13)  Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached in the whole world, there shall also this, that this woman hath done, be told for a memorial of her.

 

(Matthew 26:14)  Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went unto the chief priests,

 

(Matthew 26:15)  And said unto them, What will ye give me, and I will deliver him unto you? And they covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver.

 

(Matthew 26:16)  And from that time he sought opportunity to betray him.

 

(Matthew 26:17)  Now the first day of the feast of unleavened bread the disciples came to Jesus, saying unto him, Where wilt thou that we prepare for thee to eat the passover?

 

(Matthew 26:18)  And he said, Go into the city to such a man, and say unto him, The Master saith, My time is at hand; I will keep the passover at thy house with my disciples.

 

(Matthew 26:19)  And the disciples did as Jesus had appointed them; and they made ready the passover.

 

(Matthew 26:20)  Now when the even was come, he sat down with the twelve.

 

(Matthew 26:21)  And as they did eat, he said, Verily I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me.

 

(Matthew 26:22)  And they were exceeding sorrowful, and began every one of them to say unto him, Lord, is it I?

 

(Matthew 26:23)  And he answered and said, He that dippeth his hand with me in the dish, the same shall betray me.

 

(Matthew 26:24)  The Son of man goeth as it is written of him: but woe unto that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! it had been good for that man if he had not been born.

 

(Matthew 26:25)  Then Judas, which betrayed him, answered and said, Master, is it I? He said unto him, Thou hast said.

 

(Matthew 26:26)  And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body.

 

(Matthew 26:27)  And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it;

 

(Matthew 26:28)  For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.

 

(Matthew 26:29)  But I say unto you, I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom.

 

(Matthew 26:30)  And when they had sung an hymn, they went out into the mount of Olives.

 

(Matthew 26:31)  Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad.

 

(Matthew 26:32)  But after I am risen again, I will go before you into Galilee.

 

(Matthew 26:33)  Peter answered and said unto him, Though all men shall be offended because of thee, yet will I never be offended.

 

(Matthew 26:34)  Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this night, before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice.

 

(Matthew 26:35)  Peter said unto him, Though I should die with thee, yet will I not deny thee. Likewise also said all the disciples.

 

(Matthew 26:36)  Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder.

 

(Matthew 26:37)  And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy.

 

(Matthew 26:38)  Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me.

 

(Matthew 26:39)  And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.

 

(Matthew 26:40)  And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour?

 

(Matthew 26:41)  Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.

 

(Matthew 26:42)  He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done.

 

(Matthew 26:43)  And he came and found them asleep again: for their eyes were heavy.

 

(Matthew 26:44)  And he left them, and went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words.

 

(Matthew 26:45)  Then cometh he to his disciples, and saith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest: behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.

 

(Matthew 26:46)  Rise, let us be going: behold, he is at hand that doth betray me.

 

(Matthew 26:47)  And while he yet spake, lo, Judas, one of the twelve, came, and with him a great multitude with swords and staves, from the chief priests and elders of the people.

 

(Matthew 26:48)  Now he that betrayed him gave them a sign, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he: hold him fast.

 

(Matthew 26:49)  And forthwith he came to Jesus, and said, Hail, master; and kissed him.

 

(Matthew 26:50)  And Jesus said unto him, Friend, wherefore art thou come? Then came they, and laid hands on Jesus, and took him.

 

(Matthew 26:51)  And, behold, one of them which were with Jesus stretched out his hand, and drew his sword, and struck a servant of the high priest's, and smote off his ear.

 

(Matthew 26:52)  Then said Jesus unto him, Put up again thy sword into his place: for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword.

 

(Matthew 26:53)  Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels?

 

(Matthew 26:54)  But how then shall the scriptures be fulfilled, that thus it must be?

 

(Matthew 26:55)  In that same hour said Jesus to the multitudes, Are ye come out as against a thief with swords and staves for to take me? I sat daily with you teaching in the temple, and ye laid no hold on me.

 

(Matthew 26:56)  But all this was done, that the scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled. Then all the disciples forsook him, and fled.

 

(Matthew 26:57)  And they that had laid hold on Jesus led him away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled.

 

(Matthew 26:58)  But Peter followed him afar off unto the high priest's palace, and went in, and sat with the servants, to see the end.

 

(Matthew 26:59)  Now the chief priests, and elders, and all the council, sought false witness against Jesus, to put him to death;

 

(Matthew 26:60)  But found none: yea, though many false witnesses came, yet found they none. At the last came two false witnesses,

 

(Matthew 26:61)  And said, This fellow said, I am able to destroy the temple of God, and to build it in three days.

 

(Matthew 26:62)  And the high priest arose, and said unto him, Answerest thou nothing? what is it which these witness against thee?

 

(Matthew 26:63)  But Jesus held his peace. And the high priest answered and said unto him, I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God.

 

(Matthew 26:64)  Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.

 

(Matthew 26:65)  Then the high priest rent his clothes, saying, He hath spoken blasphemy; what further need have we of witnesses? behold, now ye have heard his blasphemy.

 

(Matthew 26:66)  What think ye? They answered and said, He is guilty of death.

 

(Matthew 26:67)  Then did they spit in his face, and buffeted him; and others smote him with the palms of their hands,

 

(Matthew 26:68)  Saying, Prophesy unto us, thou Christ, Who is he that smote thee?

 

(Matthew 26:69)  Now Peter sat without in the palace: and a damsel came unto him, saying, Thou also wast with Jesus of Galilee.

 

(Matthew 26:70)  But he denied before them all, saying, I know not what thou sayest.

 

(Matthew 26:71)  And when he was gone out into the porch, another maid saw him, and said unto them that were there, This fellow was also with Jesus of Nazareth.

 

(Matthew 26:72)  And again he denied with an oath, I do not know the man.

 

(Matthew 26:73)  And after a while came unto him they that stood by, and said to Peter, Surely thou also art one of them; for thy speech bewrayeth thee.

 

(Matthew 26:74)  Then began he to curse and to swear, saying, I know not the man. And immediately the cock crew.

 

(Matthew 26:75)  And Peter remembered the word of Jesus, which said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. And he went out, and wept bitterly.

 

In Matthew 27 Jesus is taken before Pilate, and is then condemned to be crucified and is taken to be whipped and is taken to Calvary and there He  is indeed crucified, making atonement there for all mankind’s sins through giving His life for us to pay our sin debt to God for us. His body is then taken down from the cross and then is buried in a tomb, but would rise again.

(Matthew 27:1)  When the morning was come, all the chief priests and elders of the people took counsel against Jesus to put him to death:

 

(Matthew 27:2)  And when they had bound him, they led him away, and delivered him to Pontius Pilate the governor.

 

(Matthew 27:3)  Then Judas, which had betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned, repented himself, and brought again the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders,

 

(Matthew 27:4)  Saying, I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood. And they said, What is that to us? see thou to that.

 

(Matthew 27:5)  And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple, and departed, and went and hanged himself.

 

(Matthew 27:6)  And the chief priests took the silver pieces, and said, It is not lawful for to put them into the treasury, because it is the price of blood.

 

(Matthew 27:7)  And they took counsel, and bought with them the potter's field, to bury strangers in.

 

(Matthew 27:8)  Wherefore that field was called, The field of blood, unto this day.

 

(Matthew 27:9)  Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying, And they took the thirty pieces of silver, the price of him that was valued, whom they of the children of Israel did value;

 

(Matthew 27:10)  And gave them for the potter's field, as the Lord appointed me.

 

(Matthew 27:11)  And Jesus stood before the governor: and the governor asked him, saying, Art thou the King of the Jews? And Jesus said unto him, Thou sayest.

 

(Matthew 27:12)  And when he was accused of the chief priests and elders, he answered nothing.

 

(Matthew 27:13)  Then said Pilate unto him, Hearest thou not how many things they witness against thee?

 

(Matthew 27:14)  And he answered him to never a word; insomuch that the governor marvelled greatly.

 

(Matthew 27:15)  Now at that feast the governor was wont to release unto the people a prisoner, whom they would.

 

(Matthew 27:16)  And they had then a notable prisoner, called Barabbas.

 

(Matthew 27:17)  Therefore when they were gathered together, Pilate said unto them, Whom will ye that I release unto you? Barabbas, or Jesus which is called Christ?

 

(Matthew 27:18)  For he knew that for envy they had delivered him.

 

(Matthew 27:19)  When he was set down on the judgment seat, his wife sent unto him, saying, Have thou nothing to do with that just man: for I have suffered many things this day in a dream because of him.

 

(Matthew 27:20)  But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitude that they should ask Barabbas, and destroy Jesus.

 

(Matthew 27:21)  The governor answered and said unto them, Whether of the twain will ye that I release unto you? They said, Barabbas.

 

(Matthew 27:22)  Pilate saith unto them, What shall I do then with Jesus which is called Christ? They all say unto him, Let him be crucified.

 

(Matthew 27:23)  And the governor said, Why, what evil hath he done? But they cried out the more, saying, Let him be crucified.

 

(Matthew 27:24)  When Pilate saw that he could prevail nothing, but that rather a tumult was made, he took water, and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, I am innocent of the blood of this just person: see ye to it.

 

(Matthew 27:25)  Then answered all the people, and said, His blood be on us, and on our children.

 

(Matthew 27:26)  Then released he Barabbas unto them: and when he had scourged Jesus, he delivered him to be crucified.

 

(Matthew 27:27)  Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the common hall, and gathered unto him the whole band of soldiers.

 

(Matthew 27:28)  And they stripped him, and put on him a scarlet robe.

 

(Matthew 27:29)  And when they had platted a crown of thorns, they put it upon his head, and a reed in his right hand: and they bowed the knee before him, and mocked him, saying, Hail, King of the Jews!

 

(Matthew 27:30)  And they spit upon him, and took the reed, and smote him on the head.

 

(Matthew 27:31)  And after that they had mocked him, they took the robe off from him, and put his own raiment on him, and led him away to crucify him.

 

(Matthew 27:32)  And as they came out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name: him they compelled to bear his cross.

 

(Matthew 27:33)  And when they were come unto a place called Golgotha, that is to say, a place of a skull,

 

(Matthew 27:34)  They gave him vinegar to drink mingled with gall: and when he had tasted thereof, he would not drink.

 

(Matthew 27:35)  And they crucified him, and parted his garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, They parted my garments among them, and upon my vesture did they cast lots.

 

(Matthew 27:36)  And sitting down they watched him there;

 

(Matthew 27:37)  And set up over his head his accusation written, THIS IS JESUS THE KING OF THE JEWS.

 

(Matthew 27:38)  Then were there two thieves crucified with him, one on the right hand, and another on the left.

 

(Matthew 27:39)  And they that passed by reviled him, wagging their heads,

 

(Matthew 27:40)  And saying, Thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days, save thyself. If thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross.

 

(Matthew 27:41)  Likewise also the chief priests mocking him, with the scribes and elders, said,

 

(Matthew 27:42)  He saved others; himself he cannot save. If he be the King of Israel, let him now come down from the cross, and we will believe him.

 

(Matthew 27:43)  He trusted in God; let him deliver him now, if he will have him: for he said, I am the Son of God.

 

(Matthew 27:44)  The thieves also, which were crucified with him, cast the same in his teeth.

 

(Matthew 27:45)  Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land unto the ninth hour.

 

(Matthew 27:46)  And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?

 

(Matthew 27:47)  Some of them that stood there, when they heard that, said, This man calleth for Elias.

 

(Matthew 27:48)  And straightway one of them ran, and took a spunge, and filled it with vinegar, and put it on a reed, and gave him to drink.

 

(Matthew 27:49)  The rest said, Let be, let us see whether Elias will come to save him.

 

(Matthew 27:50)  Jesus, when he had cried again with a loud voice, yielded up the ghost.

 

(Matthew 27:51)  And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent;

 

(Matthew 27:52)  And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose,

 

(Matthew 27:53)  And came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many.

 

(Matthew 27:54)  Now when the centurion, and they that were with him, watching Jesus, saw the earthquake, and those things that were done, they feared greatly, saying, Truly this was the Son of God.

 

(Matthew 27:55)  And many women were there beholding afar off, which followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering unto him:

 

(Matthew 27:56)  Among which was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedee's children.

 

(Matthew 27:57)  When the even was come, there came a rich man of Arimathaea, named Joseph, who also himself was Jesus' disciple:

 

(Matthew 27:58)  He went to Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded the body to be delivered.

 

(Matthew 27:59)  And when Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth,

 

(Matthew 27:60)  And laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock: and he rolled a great stone to the door of the sepulchre, and departed.

 

(Matthew 27:61)  And there was Mary Magdalene, and the other Mary, sitting over against the sepulchre.

 

(Matthew 27:62)  Now the next day, that followed the day of the preparation, the chief priests and Pharisees came together unto Pilate,

 

(Matthew 27:63)  Saying, Sir, we remember that that deceiver said, while he was yet alive, After three days I will rise again.

 

(Matthew 27:64)  Command therefore that the sepulchre be made sure until the third day, lest his disciples come by night, and steal him away, and say unto the people, He is risen from the dead: so the last error shall be worse than the first.

 

(Matthew 27:65)  Pilate said unto them, Ye have a watch: go your way, make it as sure as ye can.

 

(Matthew 27:66)  So they went, and made the sepulchre sure, sealing the stone, and setting a watch.

 

In Matthew chapter 28 Jesus is raised from the dead and all that takes place is described in the chapter including the angel and visits from the risen Jesus. The risen Jesus goes on to give the great commission to conclude this chapter and gospel to go teach through the world for He will be with us always.

(Matthew 28:1)  In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre.

 

(Matthew 28:2)  And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it.

 

(Matthew 28:3)  His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow:

 

(Matthew 28:4)  And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men.

 

(Matthew 28:5)  And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.

 

(Matthew 28:6)  He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.

 

(Matthew 28:7)  And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you.

 

(Matthew 28:8)  And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word.

 

(Matthew 28:9)  And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him.

 

(Matthew 28:10)  Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me.

 

(Matthew 28:11)  Now when they were going, behold, some of the watch came into the city, and shewed unto the chief priests all the things that were done.

 

(Matthew 28:12)  And when they were assembled with the elders, and had taken counsel, they gave large money unto the soldiers,

 

(Matthew 28:13)  Saying, Say ye, His disciples came by night, and stole him away while we slept.

 

(Matthew 28:14)  And if this come to the governor's ears, we will persuade him, and secure you.

 

(Matthew 28:15)  So they took the money, and did as they were taught: and this saying is commonly reported among the Jews until this day.

 

(Matthew 28:16)  Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them.

 

(Matthew 28:17)  And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted.

 

(Matthew 28:18)  And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.

 

(Matthew 28:19)  Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:

 

(Matthew 28:20)  Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

 

Here is Acts chapter 1 where Jesus gives them the final commands to await the coming of the Holy Spirit and as the apostles wait, they elect a new person, Matthias to replace Judas the one who betrayed Jesus then committed suicide.

(Acts 1:1)  The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach,

 

(Acts 1:2)  Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen:

 

(Acts 1:3)  To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God:

 

(Acts 1:4)  And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me.

 

(Acts 1:5)  For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.

 

(Acts 1:6)  When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?

 

(Acts 1:7)  And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.

 

(Acts 1:8)  But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

 

(Acts 1:9)  And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight.

 

(Acts 1:10)  And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel;

 

(Acts 1:11)  Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.

 

(Acts 1:12)  Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is from Jerusalem a sabbath day's journey.

 

(Acts 1:13)  And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James.

 

(Acts 1:14)  These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren.

 

(Acts 1:15)  And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)

 

(Acts 1:16)  Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus.

 

(Acts 1:17)  For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry.

 

(Acts 1:18)  Now this man purchased a field with the reward of iniquity; and falling headlong, he burst asunder in the midst, and all his bowels gushed out.

 

(Acts 1:19)  And it was known unto all the dwellers at Jerusalem; insomuch as that field is called in their proper tongue, Aceldama, that is to say, The field of blood.

 

(Acts 1:20)  For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishoprick let another take.

 

(Acts 1:21)  Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us,

 

(Acts 1:22)  Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection.

 

(Acts 1:23)  And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias.

 

(Acts 1:24)  And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen,

 

(Acts 1:25)  That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place.

 

(Acts 1:26)  And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.

 

In Acts 2 Pentecost arrives with the arrival of the Holy Spirit which falls on the apostles who then empowered go out to preach boldly about Jesus to the multitudes in their own tongues and as a result thousands get saved in this first outpouring of the Holy Spirit and also this is the birth of Christianity (though Christians would not be called that until later, Acts 11)

(Acts 2:1)  And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.

 

(Acts 2:2)  And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting.

 

(Acts 2:3)  And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.

 

(Acts 2:4)  And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

 

(Acts 2:5)  And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven.

 

(Acts 2:6)  Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language.

 

(Acts 2:7)  And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans?

 

(Acts 2:8)  And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born?

 

(Acts 2:9)  Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia,

 

(Acts 2:10)  Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes,

 

(Acts 2:11)  Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God.

 

(Acts 2:12)  And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this?

 

(Acts 2:13)  Others mocking said, These men are full of new wine.

 

(Acts 2:14)  But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words:

 

(Acts 2:15)  For these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day.

 

(Acts 2:16)  But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel;

 

(Acts 2:17)  And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:

 

(Acts 2:18)  And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy:

 

(Acts 2:19)  And I will shew wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke:

 

(Acts 2:20)  The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before that great and notable day of the Lord come:

 

(Acts 2:21)  And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.

 

(Acts 2:22)  Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know:

 

(Acts 2:23)  Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain:

 

(Acts 2:24)  Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it.

 

(Acts 2:25)  For David speaketh concerning him, I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved:

 

(Acts 2:26)  Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope:

 

(Acts 2:27)  Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.

 

(Acts 2:28)  Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance.

 

(Acts 2:29)  Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day.

 

(Acts 2:30)  Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne;

 

(Acts 2:31)  He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption.

 

(Acts 2:32)  This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses.

 

(Acts 2:33)  Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear.

 

(Acts 2:34)  For David is not ascended into the heavens: but he saith himself, The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand,

 

(Acts 2:35)  Until I make thy foes thy footstool.

 

(Acts 2:36)  Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.

 

(Acts 2:37)  Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?

 

(Acts 2:38)  Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

 

(Acts 2:39)  For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.

 

(Acts 2:40)  And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation.

 

(Acts 2:41)  Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.

 

(Acts 2:42)  And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.

 

(Acts 2:43)  And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.

 

(Acts 2:44)  And all that believed were together, and had all things common;

 

(Acts 2:45)  And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.

 

(Acts 2:46)  And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,

 

(Acts 2:47)  Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.

 

Acts chapter 3 goes on to relate the healing of the man at the gate of the temple and how Peter then explains how Jesus did this for the guy to be a sign to all the people at the temple and then Jesus explains how they crucified Jesus but God brought Jesus back and then encouraged the people to repent and be converted.

 

Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour.

(Acts 3:1)

 

And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple;

(Acts 3:2)

 

Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms.

(Acts 3:3)

 

And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us.

(Acts 3:4)

 

And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them.

(Acts 3:5)

 

Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.

(Acts 3:6)

 

And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength.

(Acts 3:7)

 

And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God.

(Acts 3:8)

 

And all the people saw him walking and praising God:

(Acts 3:9)

 

And they knew that it was he which sat for alms at the Beautiful gate of the temple: and they were filled with wonder and amazement at that which had happened unto him.

(Acts 3:10)

 

And as the lame man which was healed held Peter and John, all the people ran together unto them in the porch that is called Solomon's, greatly wondering.

(Acts 3:11)

 

And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, Ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or holiness we had made this man to walk?

(Acts 3:12)

 

The God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, hath glorified his Son Jesus; whom ye delivered up, and denied him in the presence of Pilate, when he was determined to let him go.

(Acts 3:13)

 

But ye denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer to be granted unto you;

(Acts 3:14)

 

And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses.

(Acts 3:15)

 

And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all.

(Acts 3:16)

 

And now, brethren, I wot that through ignorance ye did it, as did also your rulers.

(Acts 3:17)

 

But those things, which God before had shewed by the mouth of all his prophets, that Christ should suffer, he hath so fulfilled.

(Acts 3:18)

 

Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;

(Acts 3:19)

 

And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you:

(Acts 3:20)

 

Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began.

(Acts 3:21)

 

For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you.

(Acts 3:22)

 

And it shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people.

(Acts 3:23)

 

Yea, and all the prophets from Samuel and those that follow after, as many as have spoken, have likewise foretold of these days.

(Acts 3:24)

 

Ye are the children of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with our fathers, saying unto Abraham, And in thy seed shall all the kindreds of the earth be blessed.

(Acts 3:25)

 

Unto you first God, having raised up his Son Jesus, sent him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from his iniquities.

(Acts 3:26)

 

This miraculous healing brought about persecution and Peter and John are arrested but they could say nothing really against the miracle and how many were saved as a result of the miracle. All they did was tell them to stop preaching Jesus which they did not do, but prayed and many sold their possessions to help deal with the rapid growth of the church.

And as they spake unto the people, the priests, and the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees, came upon them,

(Acts 4:1)

 

Being grieved that they taught the people, and preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead.

(Acts 4:2)

 

And they laid hands on them, and put them in hold unto the next day: for it was now eventide.

(Acts 4:3)

 

Howbeit many of them which heard the word believed; and the number of the men was about five thousand.

(Acts 4:4)

 

And it came to pass on the morrow, that their rulers, and elders, and scribes,

(Acts 4:5)

 

And Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred of the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem.

(Acts 4:6)

 

And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, By what power, or by what name, have ye done this?

(Acts 4:7)

 

Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel,

(Acts 4:8)

 

If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole;

(Acts 4:9)

 

Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole.

(Acts 4:10)

 

This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.

(Acts 4:11)

 

Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

(Acts 4:12)

 

Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.

(Acts 4:13)

 

And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it.

(Acts 4:14)

 

But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they conferred among themselves,

(Acts 4:15)

 

Saying, What shall we do to these men? for that indeed a notable miracle hath been done by them is manifest to all them that dwell in Jerusalem; and we cannot deny it.

(Acts 4:16)

 

But that it spread no further among the people, let us straitly threaten them, that they speak henceforth to no man in this name.

(Acts 4:17)

 

And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus.

(Acts 4:18)

 

But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye.

(Acts 4:19)

 

For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.

(Acts 4:20)

 

So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding nothing how they might punish them, because of the people: for all men glorified God for that which was done.

(Acts 4:21)

 

For the man was above forty years old, on whom this miracle of healing was shewed.

(Acts 4:22)

 

And being let go, they went to their own company, and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said unto them.

(Acts 4:23)

 

And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said, Lord, thou art God, which hast made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is:

(Acts 4:24)

 

Who by the mouth of thy servant David hast said, Why did the heathen rage, and the people imagine vain things?

(Acts 4:25)

 

The kings of the earth stood up, and the rulers were gathered together against the Lord, and against his Christ.

(Acts 4:26)

 

For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel, were gathered together,

(Acts 4:27)

 

For to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done.

(Acts 4:28)

 

And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word,

(Acts 4:29)

 

By stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus.

(Acts 4:30)

 

And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.

(Acts 4:31)

 

And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common.

(Acts 4:32)

 

And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.

(Acts 4:33)

 

Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold,

(Acts 4:34)

 

And laid them down at the apostles' feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need.

(Acts 4:35)

 

And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus,

(Acts 4:36)

 

Having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles' feet.

(Acts 4:37)

 

In acts chapter 5 Ananias and Sapphira are then dealt with for their deception and then there are more miracles and healings and then the apostles are then beaten for not stopping to preach Jesus but they were not killed even though some examining them wanted them killed. Peter and John rejoiced, however due to the fact that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His Name- how many are like that today? It is a challenge for us all.

But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession,

(Acts 5:1)

 

And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostles' feet.

(Acts 5:2)

 

But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land?

(Acts 5:3)

 

Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God.

(Acts 5:4)

 

And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up the ghost: and great fear came on all them that heard these things.

(Acts 5:5)

 

And the young men arose, wound him up, and carried him out, and buried him.

(Acts 5:6)

 

And it was about the space of three hours after, when his wife, not knowing what was done, came in.

(Acts 5:7)

 

And Peter answered unto her, Tell me whether ye sold the land for so much? And she said, Yea, for so much.

(Acts 5:8)

 

Then Peter said unto her, How is it that ye have agreed together to tempt the Spirit of the Lord? behold, the feet of them which have buried thy husband are at the door, and shall carry thee out.

(Acts 5:9)

 

Then fell she down straightway at his feet, and yielded up the ghost: and the young men came in, and found her dead, and, carrying her forth, buried her by her husband.

(Acts 5:10)

 

And great fear came upon all the church, and upon as many as heard these things.

(Acts 5:11)

 

And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people; (and they were all with one accord in Solomon's porch.

(Acts 5:12)

 

And of the rest durst no man join himself to them: but the people magnified them.

(Acts 5:13)

 

And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women.)

(Acts 5:14)

 

Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that at the least the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them.

(Acts 5:15)

 

There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed every one.

(Acts 5:16)

 

Then the high priest rose up, and all they that were with him, (which is the sect of the Sadducees,) and were filled with indignation,

(Acts 5:17)

 

And laid their hands on the apostles, and put them in the common prison.

(Acts 5:18)

 

But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth, and said,

(Acts 5:19)

 

Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life.

(Acts 5:20)

 

And when they heard that, they entered into the temple early in the morning, and taught. But the high priest came, and they that were with him, and called the council together, and all the senate of the children of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought.

(Acts 5:21)

 

But when the officers came, and found them not in the prison, they returned, and told,

(Acts 5:22)

 

Saying, The prison truly found we shut with all safety, and the keepers standing without before the doors: but when we had opened, we found no man within.

(Acts 5:23)

 

Now when the high priest and the captain of the temple and the chief priests heard these things, they doubted of them whereunto this would grow.

(Acts 5:24)

 

Then came one and told them, saying, Behold, the men whom ye put in prison are standing in the temple, and teaching the people.

(Acts 5:25)

 

Then went the captain with the officers, and brought them without violence: for they feared the people, lest they should have been stoned.

(Acts 5:26)

 

And when they had brought them, they set them before the council: and the high priest asked them,

(Acts 5:27)

 

Saying, Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us.

(Acts 5:28)

 

Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.

(Acts 5:29)

 

The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree.

(Acts 5:30)

 

Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.

(Acts 5:31)

 

And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.

(Acts 5:32)

 

When they heard that, they were cut to the heart, and took counsel to slay them.

(Acts 5:33)

 

Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the people, and commanded to put the apostles forth a little space;

(Acts 5:34)

 

And said unto them, Ye men of Israel, take heed to yourselves what ye intend to do as touching these men.

(Acts 5:35)

 

For before these days rose up Theudas, boasting himself to be somebody; to whom a number of men, about four hundred, joined themselves: who was slain; and all, as many as obeyed him, were scattered, and brought to nought.

(Acts 5:36)

 

After this man rose up Judas of Galilee in the days of the taxing, and drew away much people after him: he also perished; and all, even as many as obeyed him, were dispersed.

(Acts 5:37)

 

And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought:

(Acts 5:38)

 

But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God.

(Acts 5:39)

 

And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.

(Acts 5:40)

 

And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.

(Acts 5:41)

 

And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.

(Acts 5:42)

 

The eight chapters of scripture in this salvation study above are there what Jesus did for us and relate the early history of the church too for us to study and also to inspire and challenge us.. As it is written God did love the world enough to send His only begotten Son- Jesus to die for our sins on the cross though He was nearly stoned in the gospel of John on two occasions. Jesus makes powerful points in these chapters about how He is indeed the one to take away the sins and also bring everlasting (eternal) Life to all to all those who believe in Him. This was all done so the sins of man, which had separated man from God could be atoned for, which Jesus did by dying o0n the cross, and the love relationship with God then is thus restored. There is nothing like a love relationship with God at all, nothing can even come remotely close to it. I am now including a prayer which you can pray and then invite Jesus in your heart to begin this wonderful relationship to which nothing can compare. Please pray this prayer with me now aloud.

Dear God in heaven, I come to you in the name of Jesus. I acknowledge to You that I am a sinner, and I am sorry for my sins and the life that I have lived up to this moment and I need Your forgiveness for my sins. I believe that your only begotten Son Jesus Christ shed His precious blood on the cross at Calvary and died for my sins, and I am now willing to repent of and turn from my sins. You said in Your Holy Word, Romans 10:9 that if we confess Jesus as our Lord and believe in our hearts that God raised Jesus from the dead, we will be saved. Right now I confess Jesus as the Lord of my soul. With my heart, I believe that God raised Jesus from the dead. This very moment I accept Jesus Christ as my own personal Savior and according to His Word, right now I am saved. Thank You Jesus for your unlimited grace which has saved me from my sins. I thank You Jesus that your grace never leads to license, but rather it always leads to repentance. Therefore Lord Jesus please transform my life so that I may bring glory and honor to you alone and not at all to myself. Thank you Jesus for dying for me and giving me eternal life.

Amen.

 

God bless you and yours