Bible study: John 17- Acts 5 Prayer and passion of Christ and church beginnings

Here is a somewhat salvation related bible study dealing with the end of Jesus’ ministry where He prays for His disciples and then the passion of Christ where He gives His life for all mankind and turning away God’s rightful wrath from mankind because of their sins, taking God’s just punishment for their sins on Himself as only He could do. I am also including the first five chapters of Acts which show the beginning of the church including the miracles and also some of the trials and persecution that they faced.
I am starting this teaching with John chapter 17 where Jesus then powerfully prays to His and our Father for the sake of His disciples and for them too (and us nowadays as well), asking the Father to help them and keep them from the evil one and many other things. It is a powerful prayer passage, arguable the most powerful prayer in the entire bible

(John 17:1) These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee:

(John 17:2) As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him.

(John 17:3) And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.

(John 17:4) I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do.

(John 17:5) And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was.

(John 17:6) I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world: thine they were, and thou gavest them me; and they have kept thy word.

(John 17:7) Now they have known that all things whatsoever thou hast given me are of thee.

(John 17:8) For I have given unto them the words which thou gavest me; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came out from thee, and they have believed that thou didst send me.

(John 17:9) I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me; for they are thine.

(John 17:10) And all mine are thine, and thine are mine; and I am glorified in them.

(John 17:11) And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are.

(John 17:12) While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name: those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled.

(John 17:13) And now come I to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves.

(John 17:14) I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.

(John 17:15) I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.

(John 17:16) They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.

(John 17:17) Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.

(John 17:18) As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.

(John 17:19) And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.

(John 17:20) Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;

(John 17:21) That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.

(John 17:22) And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one:

(John 17:23) I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.

(John 17:24) Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.

(John 17:25) O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee: but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me.

(John 17:26) And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.

John chapter 18 includes the arrest and early trials of Jesus up to His hearings with Pilate where Jesus does say My Kingdom is not of this world. Peter does deny Christ three times as foretold in this chapter, too
(John 18:1) When Jesus had spoken these words, he went forth with his disciples over the brook Cedron, where was a garden, into the which he entered, and his disciples.

(John 18:2) And Judas also, which betrayed him, knew the place: for Jesus ofttimes resorted thither with his disciples.

(John 18:3) Judas then, having received a band of men and officers from the chief priests and Pharisees, cometh thither with lanterns and torches and weapons.

(John 18:4) Jesus therefore, knowing all things that should come upon him, went forth, and said unto them, Whom seek ye?

(John 18:5) They answered him, Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus saith unto them, I am he. And Judas also, which betrayed him, stood with them.

(John 18:6) As soon then as he had said unto them, I am he, they went backward, and fell to the ground.

(John 18:7) Then asked he them again, Whom seek ye? And they said, Jesus of Nazareth.

(John 18:8) Jesus answered, I have told you that I am he: if therefore ye seek me, let these go their way:

(John 18:9) That the saying might be fulfilled, which he spake, Of them which thou gavest me have I lost none.

(John 18:10) Then Simon Peter having a sword drew it, and smote the high priest's servant, and cut off his right ear. The servant's name was Malchus.

(John 18:11) Then said Jesus unto Peter, Put up thy sword into the sheath: the cup which my Father hath given me, shall I not drink it?

(John 18:12) Then the band and the captain and officers of the Jews took Jesus, and bound him,

(John 18:13) And led him away to Annas first; for he was father in law to Caiaphas, which was the high priest that same year.

(John 18:14) Now Caiaphas was he, which gave counsel to the Jews, that it was expedient that one man should die for the people.

(John 18:15) And Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another disciple: that disciple was known unto the high priest, and went in with Jesus into the palace of the high priest.

(John 18:16) But Peter stood at the door without. Then went out that other disciple, which was known unto the high priest, and spake unto her that kept the door, and brought in Peter.

(John 18:17) Then saith the damsel that kept the door unto Peter, Art not thou also one of this man's disciples? He saith, I am not.

(John 18:18) And the servants and officers stood there, who had made a fire of coals; for it was cold: and they warmed themselves: and Peter stood with them, and warmed himself.

(John 18:19) The high priest then asked Jesus of his disciples, and of his doctrine.

(John 18:20) Jesus answered him, I spake openly to the world; I ever taught in the synagogue, and in the temple, whither the Jews always resort; and in secret have I said nothing.

(John 18:21) Why askest thou me? ask them which heard me, what I have said unto them: behold, they know what I said.

(John 18:22) And when he had thus spoken, one of the officers which stood by struck Jesus with the palm of his hand, saying, Answerest thou the high priest so?

(John 18:23) Jesus answered him, If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil: but if well, why smitest thou me?

(John 18:24) Now Annas had sent him bound unto Caiaphas the high priest.

(John 18:25) And Simon Peter stood and warmed himself. They said therefore unto him, Art not thou also one of his disciples? He denied it, and said, I am not.

(John 18:26) One of the servants of the high priest, being his kinsman whose ear Peter cut off, saith, Did not I see thee in the garden with him?

(John 18:27) Peter then denied again: and immediately the cock crew.

(John 18:28) Then led they Jesus from Caiaphas unto the hall of judgment: and it was early; and they themselves went not into the judgment hall, lest they should be defiled; but that they might eat the passover.

(John 18:29) Pilate then went out unto them, and said, What accusation bring ye against this man?

(John 18:30) They answered and said unto him, If he were not a malefactor, we would not have delivered him up unto thee.

(John 18:31) Then said Pilate unto them, Take ye him, and judge him according to your law. The Jews therefore said unto him, It is not lawful for us to put any man to death:

(John 18:32) That the saying of Jesus might be fulfilled, which he spake, signifying what death he should die.

(John 18:33) Then Pilate entered into the judgment hall again, and called Jesus, and said unto him, Art thou the King of the Jews?

(John 18:34) Jesus answered him, Sayest thou this thing of thyself, or did others tell it thee of me?

(John 18:35) Pilate answered, Am I a Jew? Thine own nation and the chief priests have delivered thee unto me: what hast thou done?

(John 18:36) Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence.

(John 18:37) Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.

(John 18:38) Pilate saith unto him, What is truth? And when he had said this, he went out again unto the Jews, and saith unto them, I find in him no fault at all.

(John 18:39) But ye have a custom, that I should release unto you one at the passover: will ye therefore that I release unto you the King of the Jews?

(John 18:40) Then cried they all again, saying, Not this man, but Barabbas. Now Barabbas was a robber.

In chapter 19 of John Jesus is then scourged and then taken off to be crucified and is crucified, and this crucifixion atones for the sins of all mankind, enabling God and man to have relationship once again. His body is then taken down from the cross and buried at the end of the chapter.
(John 19:1) Then Pilate therefore took Jesus, and scourged him.

(John 19:2) And the soldiers platted a crown of thorns, and put it on his head, and they put on him a purple robe,

(John 19:3) And said, Hail, King of the Jews! and they smote him with their hands.

(John 19:4) Pilate therefore went forth again, and saith unto them, Behold, I bring him forth to you, that ye may know that I find no fault in him.

(John 19:5) Then came Jesus forth, wearing the crown of thorns, and the purple robe. And Pilate saith unto them, Behold the man!

(John 19:6) When the chief priests therefore and officers saw him, they cried out, saying, Crucify him, crucify him. Pilate saith unto them, Take ye him, and crucify him: for I find no fault in him.

(John 19:7) The Jews answered him, We have a law, and by our law he ought to die, because he made himself the Son of God.

(John 19:8) When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he was the more afraid;

(John 19:9) And went again into the judgment hall, and saith unto Jesus, Whence art thou? But Jesus gave him no answer.

(John 19:10) Then saith Pilate unto him, Speakest thou not unto me? knowest thou not that I have power to crucify thee, and have power to release thee?

(John 19:11) Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin.

(John 19:12) And from thenceforth Pilate sought to release him: but the Jews cried out, saying, If thou let this man go, thou art not Caesar's friend: whosoever maketh himself a king speaketh against Caesar.

(John 19:13) When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he brought Jesus forth, and sat down in the judgment seat in a place that is called the Pavement, but in the Hebrew, Gabbatha.

(John 19:14) And it was the preparation of the passover, and about the sixth hour: and he saith unto the Jews, Behold your King!

(John 19:15) But they cried out, Away with him, away with him, crucify him. Pilate saith unto them, Shall I crucify your King? The chief priests answered, We have no king but Caesar.

(John 19:16) Then delivered he him therefore unto them to be crucified. And they took Jesus, and led him away.

(John 19:17) And he bearing his cross went forth into a place called the place of a skull, which is called in the Hebrew Golgotha:

(John 19:18) Where they crucified him, and two other with him, on either side one, and Jesus in the midst.

(John 19:19) And Pilate wrote a title, and put it on the cross. And the writing was, JESUS OF NAZARETH THE KING OF THE JEWS.

(John 19:20) This title then read many of the Jews: for the place where Jesus was crucified was nigh to the city: and it was written in Hebrew, and Greek, and Latin.

(John 19:21) Then said the chief priests of the Jews to Pilate, Write not, The King of the Jews; but that he said, I am King of the Jews.

(John 19:22) Pilate answered, What I have written I have written.

(John 19:23) Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus, took his garments, and made four parts, to every soldier a part; and also his coat: now the coat was without seam, woven from the top throughout.

(John 19:24) They said therefore among themselves, Let us not rend it, but cast lots for it, whose it shall be: that the scripture might be fulfilled, which saith, They parted my raiment among them, and for my vesture they did cast lots. These things therefore the soldiers did.

(John 19:25) Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene.

(John 19:26) When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son!

(John 19:27) Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home.

(John 19:28) After this, Jesus knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the scripture might be fulfilled, saith, I thirst.

(John 19:29) Now there was set a vessel full of vinegar: and they filled a spunge with vinegar, and put it upon hyssop, and put it to his mouth.

(John 19:30) When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.

(John 19:31) The Jews therefore, because it was the preparation, that the bodies should not remain upon the cross on the sabbath day, (for that sabbath day was an high day,) besought Pilate that their legs might be broken, and that they might be taken away.

(John 19:32) Then came the soldiers, and brake the legs of the first, and of the other which was crucified with him.

(John 19:33) But when they came to Jesus, and saw that he was dead already, they brake not his legs:

(John 19:34) But one of the soldiers with a spear pierced his side, and forthwith came there out blood and water.

(John 19:35) And he that saw it bare record, and his record is true: and he knoweth that he saith true, that ye might believe.

(John 19:36) For these things were done, that the scripture should be fulfilled, A bone of him shall not be broken.

(John 19:37) And again another scripture saith, They shall look on him whom they pierced.

(John 19:38) And after this Joseph of Arimathaea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, besought Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus: and Pilate gave him leave. He came therefore, and took the body of Jesus.

(John 19:39) And there came also Nicodemus, which at the first came to Jesus by night, and brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about an hundred pound weight.

(John 19:40) Then took they the body of Jesus, and wound it in linen clothes with the spices, as the manner of the Jews is to bury.

(John 19:41) Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden; and in the garden a new sepulchre, wherein was never man yet laid.

(John 19:42) There laid they Jesus therefore because of the Jews' preparation day; for the sepulchre was nigh at hand.

In John chapter 20 Jesus does come back to life and then goes on to visit the disciples twice, and this is the chapter where Jesus gently scolds Thomas for not believing that they had seen the Lord just earlier.
(John 20:1) The first day of the week cometh Mary Magdalene early, when it was yet dark, unto the sepulchre, and seeth the stone taken away from the sepulchre.

(John 20:2) Then she runneth, and cometh to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple, whom Jesus loved, and saith unto them, They have taken away the Lord out of the sepulchre, and we know not where they have laid him.

(John 20:3) Peter therefore went forth, and that other disciple, and came to the sepulchre.

(John 20:4) So they ran both together: and the other disciple did outrun Peter, and came first to the sepulchre.

(John 20:5) And he stooping down, and looking in, saw the linen clothes lying; yet went he not in.

(John 20:6) Then cometh Simon Peter following him, and went into the sepulchre, and seeth the linen clothes lie,

(John 20:7) And the napkin, that was about his head, not lying with the linen clothes, but wrapped together in a place by itself.

(John 20:8) Then went in also that other disciple, which came first to the sepulchre, and he saw, and believed.

(John 20:9) For as yet they knew not the scripture, that he must rise again from the dead.

(John 20:10) Then the disciples went away again unto their own home.

(John 20:11) But Mary stood without at the sepulchre weeping: and as she wept, she stooped down, and looked into the sepulchre,

(John 20:12) And seeth two angels in white sitting, the one at the head, and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had lain.

(John 20:13) And they say unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? She saith unto them, Because they have taken away my Lord, and I know not where they have laid him.

(John 20:14) And when she had thus said, she turned herself back, and saw Jesus standing, and knew not that it was Jesus.

(John 20:15) Jesus saith unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? whom seekest thou? She, supposing him to be the gardener, saith unto him, Sir, if thou have borne him hence, tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will take him away.

(John 20:16) Jesus saith unto her, Mary. She turned herself, and saith unto him, Rabboni; which is to say, Master.

(John 20:17) Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God.

(John 20:18) Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the Lord, and that he had spoken these things unto her.

(John 20:19) Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you.

(John 20:20) And when he had so said, he shewed unto them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord.

(John 20:21) Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you.

(John 20:22) And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost:

(John 20:23) Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained.

(John 20:24) But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came.

(John 20:25) The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe.

(John 20:26) And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you.

(John 20:27) Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing.

(John 20:28) And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God.

(John 20:29) Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.

(John 20:30) And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book:

(John 20:31) But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.

In John chapter 21 is the remarkable fish catch miracle also where Jesus asks Peter three times if He loves Him more than anyone and then prophesies Peter’s martyrdom. The book concludes by stating that not all the books of the earth could contain the stories of Jesus’ miracles.
(John 21:1) After these things Jesus shewed himself again to the disciples at the sea of Tiberias; and on this wise shewed he himself.

(John 21:2) There were together Simon Peter, and Thomas called Didymus, and Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, and the sons of Zebedee, and two other of his disciples.

(John 21:3) Simon Peter saith unto them, I go a fishing. They say unto him, We also go with thee. They went forth, and entered into a ship immediately; and that night they caught nothing.

(John 21:4) But when the morning was now come, Jesus stood on the shore: but the disciples knew not that it was Jesus.

(John 21:5) Then Jesus saith unto them, Children, have ye any meat? They answered him, No.

(John 21:6) And he said unto them, Cast the net on the right side of the ship, and ye shall find. They cast therefore, and now they were not able to draw it for the multitude of fishes.

(John 21:7) Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved saith unto Peter, It is the Lord. Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he girt his fisher's coat unto him, (for he was naked,) and did cast himself into the sea.

(John 21:8) And the other disciples came in a little ship; (for they were not far from land, but as it were two hundred cubits,) dragging the net with fishes.

(John 21:9) As soon then as they were come to land, they saw a fire of coals there, and fish laid thereon, and bread.

(John 21:10) Jesus saith unto them, Bring of the fish which ye have now caught.

(John 21:11) Simon Peter went up, and drew the net to land full of great fishes, an hundred and fifty and three: and for all there were so many, yet was not the net broken.

(John 21:12) Jesus saith unto them, Come and dine. And none of the disciples durst ask him, Who art thou? knowing that it was the Lord.

(John 21:13) Jesus then cometh, and taketh bread, and giveth them, and fish likewise.

(John 21:14) This is now the third time that Jesus shewed himself to his disciples, after that he was risen from the dead.

(John 21:15) So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs.

(John 21:16) He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep.

(John 21:17) He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.

(John 21:18) Verily, verily, I say unto thee, When thou wast young, thou girdedst thyself, and walkedst whither thou wouldest: but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldest not.

(John 21:19) This spake he, signifying by what death he should glorify God. And when he had spoken this, he saith unto him, Follow me.

(John 21:20) Then Peter, turning about, seeth the disciple whom Jesus loved following; which also leaned on his breast at supper, and said, Lord, which is he that betrayeth thee?

(John 21:21) Peter seeing him saith to Jesus, Lord, and what shall this man do?

(John 21:22) Jesus saith unto him, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? follow thou me.

(John 21:23) Then went this saying abroad among the brethren, that that disciple should not die: yet Jesus said not unto him, He shall not die; but, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee?

(John 21:24) This is the disciple which testifieth of these things, and wrote these things: and we know that his testimony is true.

(John 21:25) And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written. 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 ten 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