MPV Commentary

This book is to the Gospels what fruit is to the tree that bears it. In the Gospels we see Jesus giving His life for us: in Acts we see the Church rising from those sacrifices. We see Christ purchasing the Church with His own blood and then watch as it grows into a living, breathing entity among the Jews of Palestine and eventually spreads to the surrounding Gentiles.

The authenticity of this book has been questioned by some, but its connection to Luke's Gospel is undeniable. The style and tone are remarkably similar, leaving no doubt that the early Church attributed it to Luke with one voice. Some have suggested that the historian was not an eyewitness himself, but rather relied on oral and written testimony from others who were present at key events.

The book's purpose has been debated, with some arguing that it lacks a clear plan or structure. However, we can see that its main goal is to record the spread of Christianity among the Jews and Gentiles, with Antioch serving as its headquarters. This explains why Peter takes center stage in the early chapters, only to fade into the background as Paul becomes the dominant figure.

Some have questioned the accuracy of certain events or the motivations behind Luke's writing. However, a closer examination reveals that these concerns are unfounded. The historian's use of "we" in certain passages has led some to speculate about the involvement of Timothy, but this theory is not supported by evidence.

The Acts of the Apostles provides valuable insight into the early Church and its struggles. It also serves as an introduction to the Epistles that follow it, presupposing the historical context of the parties addressed and deriving much of their freshness and force from these circumstances. Without this history, many passages in the Epistles would be difficult or impossible to understand.

The book's connection to the Apostolic Epistles has been highlighted by scholars such as Paley and Birks, who have demonstrated the value of "undesigned coincidences" between Acts and the Epistles as evidence for the truth of the events recorded. While some have questioned certain aspects of this approach, its overall validity remains unassailable.

In conclusion, the Acts of the Apostles is a vital part of our understanding of the early Church and its growth into a global movement. Its connection to Luke's Gospel and the Apostolic Epistles makes it an essential component of our New Testament canon.