Passion of Christ early church bible study

 

            Here is a teaching bible study combining the passion of Christ as in Mark- 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, 14,15 and 16, which relate the passion of Christ, Mark chapter 14 tells of the last supper, Jesus betrayal and arrest, Peters denials of Jesus which are foretold, and also the early hearings for Jesus

(Mark 14:1)  After two days was the feast of the passover, and of unleavened bread: and the chief priests and the scribes sought how they might take him by craft, and put him to death.

 

(Mark 14:2)  But they said, Not on the feast day, lest there be an uproar of the people.

 

(Mark 14:3)  And being in Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as he sat at meat, there came a woman having an alabaster box of ointment of spikenard very precious; and she brake the box, and poured it on his head.

 

(Mark 14:4)  And there were some that had indignation within themselves, and said, Why was this waste of the ointment made?

 

(Mark 14:5)  For it might have been sold for more than three hundred pence, and have been given to the poor. And they murmured against her.

 

(Mark 14:6)  And Jesus said, Let her alone; why trouble ye her? she hath wrought a good work on me.

 

(Mark 14:7)  For ye have the poor with you always, and whensoever ye will ye may do them good: but me ye have not always.

 

(Mark 14:8)  She hath done what she could: she is come aforehand to anoint my body to the burying.

 

(Mark 14:9)  Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached throughout the whole world, this also that she hath done shall be spoken of for a memorial of her.

 

(Mark 14:10)  And Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went unto the chief priests, to betray him unto them.

 

(Mark 14:11)  And when they heard it, they were glad, and promised to give him money. And he sought how he might conveniently betray him.

 

(Mark 14:12)  And the first day of unleavened bread, when they killed the passover, his disciples said unto him, Where wilt thou that we go and prepare that thou mayest eat the passover?

 

(Mark 14:13)  And he sendeth forth two of his disciples, and saith unto them, Go ye into the city, and there shall meet you a man bearing a pitcher of water: follow him.

 

(Mark 14:14)  And wheresoever he shall go in, say ye to the goodman of the house, The Master saith, Where is the guestchamber, where I shall eat the passover with my disciples?

 

(Mark 14:15)  And he will shew you a large upper room furnished and prepared: there make ready for us.

 

(Mark 14:16)  And his disciples went forth, and came into the city, and found as he had said unto them: and they made ready the passover.

 

(Mark 14:17)  And in the evening he cometh with the twelve.

 

(Mark 14:18)  And as they sat and did eat, Jesus said, Verily I say unto you, One of you which eateth with me shall betray me.

 

(Mark 14:19)  And they began to be sorrowful, and to say unto him one by one, Is it I? and another said, Is it I?

 

(Mark 14:20)  And he answered and said unto them, It is one of the twelve, that dippeth with me in the dish.

 

(Mark14:21)  The Son of man indeed goeth, as it is written of him: but woe to that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! good were it for that man if he had never been born.

 

(Mark 14:22)  And as they did eat, Jesus took bread, and blessed, and brake it, and gave to them, and said, Take, eat: this is my body.

 

(Mark 14:23)  And he took the cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them: and they all drank of it.

 

(Mark 14:24)  And he said unto them, This is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many.

 

(Mark 14:25)  Verily I say unto you, I will drink no more of the fruit of the vine, until that day that I drink it new in the kingdom of God.

 

(Mark 14:26)  And when they had sung an hymn, they went out into the mount of Olives.

 

(Mark 14:27)  And Jesus saith unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered.

 

(Mark 14:28)  But after that I am risen, I will go before you into Galilee.

 

(Mark 14:29)  But Peter said unto him, Although all shall be offended, yet will not I.

 

(Mark 14:30)  And Jesus saith unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this day, even in this night, before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice.

 

(Mark 14:31)  But he spake the more vehemently, If I should die with thee, I will not deny thee in any wise. Likewise also said they all.

 

(Mark 14:32)  And they came to a place which was named Gethsemane: and he saith to his disciples, Sit ye here, while I shall pray.

 

(Mark 14:33)  And he taketh with him Peter and James and John, and began to be sore amazed, and to be very heavy;

 

(Mark 14:34)  And saith unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful unto death: tarry ye here, and watch.

 

(Mark 14:35)  And he went forward a little, and fell on the ground, and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from him.

 

(Mark 14:36)  And he said, Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me: nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt.

 

(Mark 14:37)  And he cometh, and findeth them sleeping, and saith unto Peter, Simon, sleepest thou? couldest not thou watch one hour?

 

(Mark 14:38)  Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. The spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak.

 

(Mark 14:39)  And again he went away, and prayed, and spake the same words.

 

(Mark 14:40)  And when he returned, he found them asleep again, (for their eyes were heavy,) neither wist they what to answer him.

 

(Mark 14:41)  And he cometh the third time, and saith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest: it is enough, the hour is come; behold, the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.

 

(Mark 14:42)  Rise up, let us go; lo, he that betrayeth me is at hand.

 

(Mark 14:43)  And immediately, while he yet spake, cometh Judas, one of the twelve, and with him a great multitude with swords and staves, from the chief priests and the scribes and the elders.

 

(Mark 14:44)  And he that betrayed him had given them a token, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he; take him, and lead him away safely.

 

(Mark 14:45)  And as soon as he was come, he goeth straightway to him, and saith, Master, master; and kissed him.

 

(Mark 14:46)  And they laid their hands on him, and took him.

 

(Mark 14:47)  And one of them that stood by drew a sword, and smote a servant of the high priest, and cut off his ear.

 

(Mark 14:48)  And Jesus answered and said unto them, Are ye come out, as against a thief, with swords and with staves to take me?

 

(Mark 14:49)  I was daily with you in the temple teaching, and ye took me not: but the scriptures must be fulfilled.

 

(Mark 14:50)  And they all forsook him, and fled.

 

(Mark 14:51)  And there followed him a certain young man, having a linen cloth cast about his naked body; and the young men laid hold on him:

 

(Mark 14:52)  And he left the linen cloth, and fled from them naked.

 

(Mark 14:53)  And they led Jesus away to the high priest: and with him were assembled all the chief priests and the elders and the scribes.

 

(Mark 14:54)  And Peter followed him afar off, even into the palace of the high priest: and he sat with the servants, and warmed himself at the fire.

 

(Mark 14:55)  And the chief priests and all the council sought for witness against Jesus to put him to death; and found none.

 

(Mark 14:56)  For many bare false witness against him, but their witness agreed not together.

 

(Mark 14:57)  And there arose certain, and bare false witness against him, saying,

 

(Mark 14:58)  We heard him say, I will destroy this temple that is made with hands, and within three days I will build another made without hands.

 

(Mark 14:59)  But neither so did their witness agree together.

 

(Mark 14:60)  And the high priest stood up in the midst, and asked Jesus, saying, Answerest thou nothing? what is it which these witness against thee?

 

(Mark 14:61)  But he held his peace, and answered nothing. Again the high priest asked him, and said unto him, Art thou the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?

 

(Mark 14:62)  And Jesus said, I am: and ye shall see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.

 

(Mark 14:63)  Then the high priest rent his clothes, and saith, What need we any further witnesses?

 

(Mark 14:64)  Ye have heard the blasphemy: what think ye? And they all condemned him to be guilty of death.

 

(Mark 14:65)  And some began to spit on him, and to cover his face, and to buffet him, and to say unto him, Prophesy: and the servants did strike him with the palms of their hands.

 

(Mark 14:66)  And as Peter was beneath in the palace, there cometh one of the maids of the high priest:

 

(Mark 14:67)  And when she saw Peter warming himself, she looked upon him, and said, And thou also wast with Jesus of Nazareth.

 

(Mark 14:68)  But he denied, saying, I know not, neither understand I what thou sayest. And he went out into the porch; and the cock crew.

 

(Mark 14:69)  And a maid saw him again, and began to say to them that stood by, This is one of them.

 

(Mark 14:70)  And he denied it again. And a little after, they that stood by said again to Peter, Surely thou art one of them: for thou art a Galilaean, and thy speech agreeth thereto.

 

(Mark 14:71)  But he began to curse and to swear, saying, I know not this man of whom ye speak.

 

(Mark 14:72)  And the second time the cock crew. And Peter called to mind the word that Jesus said unto him, Before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice. And when he thought thereon, he wept.

 

Mark chapter 15 tells of the story of Jesus hearing before Pilate who then condemns Jesus to be whipped and crucified. Jesus carries His cross and then is crucified and in so doing paying for all of the sins of mankind and this act of obedience paves the way for restoration of relationship with God by the atoning blood of Christ. He is then buried but will rise from the dead soon enough

(Mark 15:1)  And straightway in the morning the chief priests held a consultation with the elders and scribes and the whole council, and bound Jesus, and carried him away, and delivered him to Pilate.

 

(Mark 15:2)  And Pilate asked him, Art thou the King of the Jews? And he answering said unto him, Thou sayest it.

 

(Mark 15:3)  And the chief priests accused him of many things: but he answered nothing.

 

(Mark 15:4)  And Pilate asked him again, saying, Answerest thou nothing? behold how many things they witness against thee.

 

(Mark 15:5)  But Jesus yet answered nothing; so that Pilate marvelled.

 

(Mark 15:6)  Now at that feast he released unto them one prisoner, whomsoever they desired.

 

(Mark 15:7)  And there was one named Barabbas, which lay bound with them that had made insurrection with him, who had committed murder in the insurrection.

 

(Mark 15:8)  And the multitude crying aloud began to desire him to do as he had ever done unto them.

 

(Mark 15:9)  But Pilate answered them, saying, Will ye that I release unto you the King of the Jews?

 

(Mark 15:10)  For he knew that the chief priests had delivered him for envy.

 

(Mark 15:11)  But the chief priests moved the people, that he should rather release Barabbas unto them.

 

(Mark 15:12)  And Pilate answered and said again unto them, What will ye then that I shall do unto him whom ye call the King of the Jews?

 

(Mark 15:13)  And they cried out again, Crucify him.

 

(Mark 15:14)  Then Pilate said unto them, Why, what evil hath he done? And they cried out the more exceedingly, Crucify him.

 

(Mark 15:15)  And so Pilate, willing to content the people, released Barabbas unto them, and delivered Jesus, when he had scourged him, to be crucified.

 

(Mark 15:16)  And the soldiers led him away into the hall, called Praetorium; and they call together the whole band.

 

(Mark 15:17)  And they clothed him with purple, and platted a crown of thorns, and put it about his head,

 

(Mark 15:18)  And began to salute him, Hail, King of the Jews!

 

(Mark 15:19)  And they smote him on the head with a reed, and did spit upon him, and bowing their knees worshipped him.

 

(Mark 15:20)  And when they had mocked him, they took off the purple from him, and put his own clothes on him, and led him out to crucify him.

 

(Mark 15:21)  And they compel one Simon a Cyrenian, who passed by, coming out of the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to bear his cross.

 

(Mark 15:22)  And they bring him unto the place Golgotha, which is, being interpreted, The place of a skull.

 

(Mark 15:23)  And they gave him to drink wine mingled with myrrh: but he received it not.

 

(Mark 15:24)  And when they had crucified him, they parted his garments, casting lots upon them, what every man should take.

 

(Mark 15:25)  And it was the third hour, and they crucified him.

 

(Mark 15:26)  And the superscription of his accusation was written over, THE KING OF THE JEWS.

 

(Mark 15:27)  And with him they crucify two thieves; the one on his right hand, and the other on his left.

 

(Mark 15:28)  And the scripture was fulfilled, which saith, And he was numbered with the transgressors.

 

(Mark 15:29)  And they that passed by railed on him, wagging their heads, and saying, Ah, thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days,

 

(Mark 15:30)  Save thyself, and come down from the cross.

 

(Mark 15:31)  Likewise also the chief priests mocking said among themselves with the scribes, He saved others; himself he cannot save.

 

(Mark15:32)  Let Christ the King of Israel descend now from the cross, that we may see and believe. And they that were crucified with him reviled him.

 

(Mark 15:33)  And when the sixth hour was come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour.

 

(Mark 15:34)  And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which is, being interpreted, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?

 

(Mark 15:35)  And some of them that stood by, when they heard it, said, Behold, he calleth Elias.

 

(Mark 15:36)  And one ran and filled a spunge full of vinegar, and put it on a reed, and gave him to drink, saying, Let alone; let us see whether Elias will come to take him down.

 

(Mark 15:37)  And Jesus cried with a loud voice, and gave up the ghost.

 

(Mark 15:38)  And the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom.

 

(Mark 15:39)  And when the centurion, which stood over against him, saw that he so cried out, and gave up the ghost, he said, Truly this man was the Son of God.

 

(Mark 15:40)  There were also women looking on afar off: among whom was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James the less and of Joses, and Salome;

 

(Mark 15:41)  (Who also, when he was in Galilee, followed him, and ministered unto him and many other women which came up with him unto Jerusalem.

 

(Mark 15:42)  And now when the even was come, because it was the preparation, that is, the day before the sabbath,

 

(Mark 15:43)  Joseph of Arimathaea, an honourable counsellor, which also waited for the kingdom of God, came, and went in boldly unto Pilate, and craved the body of Jesus.

 

(Mark 15:44)  And Pilate marvelled if he were already dead: and calling unto him the centurion, he asked him whether he had been any while dead.

 

(Mark 15:45)  And when he knew it of the centurion, he gave the body to Joseph.

 

(Mark 15:46)  And he bought fine linen, and took him down, and wrapped him in the linen, and laid him in a sepulchre which was hewn out of a rock, and rolled a stone unto the door of the sepulchre.

 

(Mark 15:47)  And Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses beheld where he was laid.

 

Indeed in Mark chapter 16 Jesus does rise from the grave but many do not believe this so Jesus appears to them and rebukes them over that and then gives this version of the great commission to go preach the gospel to the world

(Mark 16:1)  And when the sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, had bought sweet spices, that they might come and anoint him.

 

(Mark 16:2)  And very early in the morning the first day of the week, they came unto the sepulchre at the rising of the sun.

 

(Mark 16:3)  And they said among themselves, Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre?

 

(Mark 16:4)  And when they looked, they saw that the stone was rolled away: for it was very great.

 

(Mark 16:5)  And entering into the sepulchre, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment; and they were affrighted.

 

(Mark 16:6)  And he saith unto them, Be not affrighted: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where they laid him.

 

(Mark 16:7)  But go your way, tell his disciples and Peter that he goeth before you into Galilee: there shall ye see him, as he said unto you.

 

(Mark 16:8)  And they went out quickly, and fled from the sepulchre; for they trembled and were amazed: neither said they any thing to any man; for they were afraid.

 

(Mark 16:9)  Now when Jesus was risen early the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had cast seven devils.

 

(Mark 16:10)  And she went and told them that had been with him, as they mourned and wept.

 

(Mark 16:11)  And they, when they had heard that he was alive, and had been seen of her, believed not.

 

(Mark 16:12)  After that he appeared in another form unto two of them, as they walked, and went into the country.

 

(Mark 16:13)  And they went and told it unto the residue: neither believed they them.

 

(Mark 16:14)  Afterward he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen him after he was risen.

 

(Mark 16:15)  And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.

 

(Mark 16:16)  He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.

 

(Mark 16:17)  And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;

 

(Mark 16:18)  They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.

 

(Mark 16:19)  So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God.

 

(Mark 16:20)  And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. 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