Acts 1 - IVP New Testament Commentaries

Preparation for Pentecost

Luke skillfully begins Acts with a backward look that lays the groundwork for his second volume of historical narrative. In this "beginning of the beginning" he focuses on preparation for the coming of the empowering Holy Spirit. We need to hear his claim that by the Spirit's power the church will fulfill its mandate of preaching the gospel to the ends of the earth. What a difference that will make in how we offer or receive the message!