Acts Chapter 1: Jesus’ Ascension and the Disciples’ Preparation


Summary
Acts 1 sets the stage for the early church’s mission, recounting Jesus’ post-resurrection appearances, His ascension, and the disciples’ readiness for Pentecost. The chapter unfolds in several key scenes:
  • Jesus’ Final Teachings (1:1–5): Luke, addressing Theophilus, summarizes his Gospel and notes Jesus’ 40-day appearances, teaching about God’s kingdom. Jesus instructs the disciples to wait in Jerusalem for the promised Holy Spirit, describing it as a baptism, soon to come.
  • The Ascension (1:6–11): The disciples ask if Jesus will now restore Israel’s kingdom. He redirects them, saying the Father sets such times, but they will receive power from the Spirit to witness in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. Jesus ascends into heaven, and two angels assure the disciples He will return in the same way.
  • The Disciples’ Preparation (1:12–14): Returning to Jerusalem, the 11 apostles (minus Judas), along with about 120 believers, including Mary and Jesus’ brothers, devote themselves to prayer in an upper room.
  • Replacing Judas (1:15–26): Peter, citing Psalms 69:25 and 109:8, proposes replacing Judas, who betrayed Jesus and died. The disciples nominate Joseph (Barsabbas) and Matthias, pray for God’s choice, and cast lots. Matthias is chosen as the twelfth apostle.
Cross-References
  • Jesus’ Teachings and Spirit’s Promise:
    • Luke 24:44–49: Jesus’ post-resurrection instructions.
    • John 14:16–17: Promise of the Spirit.
    • Joel 2:28–32: Spirit’s outpouring foretold.
    • Isaiah 44:3: God pours out His Spirit.
  • Ascension:
    • Luke 24:50–53: Jesus ascends from Bethany.
    • Mark 16:19: Jesus at God’s right hand.
    • Daniel 7:13–14: Son of Man with clouds.
    • Ephesians 1:20–21: Christ’s exaltation.
  • Disciples’ Prayer:
    • Acts 2:42: Devotion to prayer.
    • Luke 18:1: Persevere in prayer.
    • James 5:16: Effective prayer of the righteous.
  • Judas’ Replacement:
    • Psalm 69:25: Desolation for the wicked.
    • Psalm 109:8: Another takes his office.
    • John 17:12: Judas as son of perdition.
    • Proverbs 16:33: Lots under God’s control.
  • General Theme:
    • Matthew 28:19–20: Great Commission.
    • Acts 2:1–4: Fulfillment at Pentecost.
Theological Meaning
Acts 1 is rich with theological themes that establish the church’s mission:
  • Jesus’ Authority: His resurrection appearances and ascension (1:3, 9) affirm His lordship, commissioning the disciples with divine authority (Matthew 28:18; Acts 2:36).
  • Spirit’s Empowerment: The promise of the Spirit (1:4–5, 8) equips believers for global witness, initiating the church’s mission (John 16:7; Acts 2:4).
  • Mission’s Scope: The command to witness from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth (1:8) outlines the gospel’s universal reach, fulfilling God’s plan (Isaiah 49:6; Romans 10:18).
  • God’s Timing: Jesus’ response to the kingdom’s restoration (1:7) emphasizes the Father’s sovereignty over eschatological events (Mark 13:32; 1 Thessalonians 5:1–2).
  • Hope of Return: The angels’ assurance of Jesus’ return (1:11) instills hope, motivating faithfulness (Titus 2:13; Revelation 22:20).
  • Prayer and Unity: The disciples’ devotion to prayer (1:14) models dependence on God, fostering unity for mission (Ephesians 4:3; Colossians 4:2).
  • Apostolic Continuity: Replacing Judas (1:20–26) ensures the twelve apostles’ symbolic role, representing restored Israel (Matthew 19:28; Acts 2:14).
Questions and Answers
  1. Who was Theophilus, and why did Luke write to him (1:1)?
    • Theophilus, likely a Gentile believer or official, was Luke’s patron or audience (1:1; Luke 1:3). Luke wrote to confirm the truth of Jesus’ life and the church’s mission (Luke 1:4; Acts 26:26).
  2. What did Jesus teach during the 40 days (1:3)?
    • Jesus gave “convincing proofs” of His resurrection and taught about God’s kingdom, preparing the disciples for their mission (1:3; Luke 24:45–47; John 20:27).
  3. Why did the disciples ask about Israel’s kingdom (1:6)?
    • Expecting a political Messiah, they hoped Jesus would restore Israel’s independence from Rome (1:6; Luke 19:11; Zechariah 14:9).
  4. What did Jesus mean by “power from the Holy Spirit” (1:8)?
    • The Spirit would empower the disciples to boldly proclaim the gospel across nations, fulfilling their role as witnesses (1:8; Acts 2:4; John 15:26–27).
  5. How did Jesus ascend, and why did angels appear (1:9–11)?
    • Jesus was lifted into a cloud, signifying divine glory (1:9; Exodus 24:16). Angels assured His return, redirecting the disciples to their mission (1:11; Matthew 24:30).
  6. Who were the 120 believers praying together (1:14–15)?
    • They included the 11 apostles, women disciples, Mary (Jesus’ mother), His brothers, and others, united in prayer (1:14–15; Luke 8:2–3; John 7:5).
  7. Why was Judas replaced (1:20–22)?
    • Judas’ betrayal left a vacancy among the twelve, symbolizing Israel’s tribes. Peter cited Psalms to justify choosing a witness of Jesus’ ministry (1:20–22; Matthew 19:28; Psalm 69:25).
  8. How did casting lots choose Matthias (1:26)?
    • Lots, a biblical practice, sought God’s decision after prayer, trusting His sovereignty (1:26; Proverbs 16:33; Leviticus 16:8). Matthias joined the apostles (Acts 2:14).
Additional Notes for Readers
  • Historical Context: The events (circa AD 33) occur in Jerusalem, post-resurrection (1:4; Luke 24:52). Pentecost was imminent, 50 days after Passover (1:5; Leviticus 23:16). The upper room (1:13) was likely a large house for gatherings (Acts 2:2). Judas’ death (1:18) aligns with Matthew 27:5–8, with Luke adding details (field bought with betrayal money). The twelve apostles (1:26) symbolized restored Israel (Revelation 21:14). Theophilus’ title, “most excellent” (Luke 1:3), suggests status (Acts 23:26).
  • Cultural Questions: Readers might wonder why 40 days (1:3). It signified completion, like Moses’ time on Sinai (Exodus 24:18). The kingdom question (1:6) reflected Jewish hopes for liberation (Isaiah 9:7). Women’s inclusion (1:14) was notable in a patriarchal culture (Luke 8:1–3). Judas’ “field of blood” (1:19) was infamous locally (Matthew 27:8). Lots (1:26) were common for divine guidance, later replaced by Spirit-led decisions (Acts 13:2).
  • Application: Acts 1 calls believers to wait on God’s Spirit, obey His mission, and pray in unity. It encourages hope in Jesus’ return and faithful witness, advancing the gospel (Matthew 5:16).
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