If It Is of God

The book of Acts is Luke's record of the transition from Old Covenant Israel (national Israel) to New Covenant spiritual Israel (the church). This transition is clear by two things. First, the coming of the Spirit in chapter 2 inaugurates the New Covenant (Ezekiel 36:26). This was accompanied by signs and wonders unique to this transitional period. If Acts 2 is the model for churches in this grace age, then, for the most part, Paul's ministry was a failure, and so is every ministry to follow.

Second, the power struggle and persecution of the Jewish authorities show that they were jealous of losing their influence with the people as multitudes were turning to Christ in Jerusalem.

Acts 5 documents the beginning of the increased persecution. This was God's means of moving the gospel witness out from Jerusalem and into the rest of world (Acts 8:4).

The outline of the message:

I. The Theology of Peter's Defense
A. The principle: ultimate authority supersedes delegated authority
B. The supremacy of the program of God

II. God's Providential Preservation of the Apostles
A. The response of the Jews to Peter's defense (v. 33)
B. Gamaliel's argument to show caution with respect to the apostles (vv. 34-39).
C. The apostles left the council rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer for Jesus' sake (v. 41), and they continued to preach and teach the gospel at every opportunity (v. 42).