The Kingdom Promised and Begun

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The book of Acts continues the story begun in the Gospel of Luke, focusing on what Jesus began to do and teach. The previous events include Jesus’ death, resurrection, and appearances to His disciples, confirming His victory over sin and death. Acts 1 captures the transition from Jesus’ earthly ministry to the church’s mission empowered by the Holy Spirit. Understanding the Jewish expectation of the kingdom and the apostles’ role helps us grasp the significance of Jesus’ final commands and the promise of the Spirit. This chapter prepares us to see how God’s kingdom advances through the church’s witness in the world.

What You'll Learn

• How Jesus prepared His disciples for kingdom mission before His ascension.
• The significance of the promised Holy Spirit baptism for empowering believers.
• Why the apostles were instructed to wait in Jerusalem before beginning their work.
• The meaning of Jesus’ ascension and the promise of His return.
• The early church’s response to Judas’ betrayal and the importance of apostolic witness.
• How prayer and reliance on God’s guidance shaped the first church community.

Jesus commissions His followers to witness the kingdom empowered by the Holy Spirit, marking the church’s beginning and mission.

Bible Translation Note: All Scripture on this page is quoted from the King James Version (KJV) and presented in full without alteration.

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.

Acts 1:1

The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach,

Study: Luke, the author, addresses Theophilus to continue the story of Jesus’ ministry, emphasizing what Jesus began to do and teach. This verse connects Acts to the Gospel of Luke, showing the continuity of Jesus’ work and the unfolding kingdom plan. It reminds readers that Jesus’ earthly ministry was the foundation for the church’s mission.

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:

Study: This verse highlights Jesus’ ascension as the culmination of His earthly ministry and the giving of commandments through the Holy Spirit to the apostles. It shows God’s sovereign plan to empower chosen witnesses, emphasizing the divine authority behind the apostles’ mission. The detail of the Holy Ghost’s involvement underscores the spiritual nature of their calling.

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:

Study: Jesus’ resurrection appearances over forty days provided undeniable proof of His victory over death and affirmed His teaching about the kingdom of God. The phrase 'infallible proofs' assures the disciples and readers of the reality of the resurrection, strengthening faith. This period also prepared the apostles for their future role in proclaiming the kingdom.

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.

Study: Jesus commands the apostles to remain in Jerusalem and wait for the Father’s promise, referring to the coming Holy Spirit. This instruction was crucial because the Spirit’s arrival would empower them for their mission. The command to wait highlights the importance of obedience and dependence on God’s timing.

Acts 1:5

For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.

Study: The contrast between John’s water baptism and the coming baptism with the Holy Ghost reveals a new dimension of spiritual empowerment. This promise points to the transformative work of the Spirit in believers, enabling them to witness and live out the kingdom. It also sets the stage for Pentecost, a pivotal event in church history.

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?

Study: The disciples’ question about restoring the kingdom to Israel reflects Jewish hopes for political and national restoration. Their focus on earthly restoration shows their limited understanding of the kingdom’s spiritual nature. This question sets up Jesus’ teaching on God’s sovereign timing and the broader mission.

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.

Study: Jesus redirects the disciples from speculating about timing to trusting God’s sovereign control over history. By stating that the Father alone knows the times and seasons, He teaches humility and patience. This response encourages believers to focus on faithful obedience rather than curiosity.

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.

Study: This verse promises the Holy Spirit’s power to enable the disciples to be Christ’s witnesses locally and globally. The geographical progression from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth illustrates the expanding scope of the gospel mission. It reveals God’s plan to use Spirit-empowered believers to spread the kingdom universally.

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.

Study: Jesus’ ascension into heaven marks His exaltation and the completion of His earthly mission. The cloud symbolizes God’s presence and divine approval, echoing Old Testament theophanies. This event assures believers of Jesus’ ongoing heavenly reign and intercession.

Acts 1:10

And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel;

Study: The appearance of two men in white apparel, likely angels, provides reassurance and divine interpretation of the ascension. Their presence connects heaven and earth, affirming the supernatural nature of the event. This detail comforts the disciples and readers with God’s active involvement.

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.

Study: The angels’ message reminds the disciples that Jesus will return visibly, just as He ascended. This promise of His second coming encourages hope and readiness. It also confirms Jesus’ identity and the certainty of God’s kingdom fulfillment.

Acts 1:12

Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is from Jerusalem a sabbath day’s journey.

Study: The disciples’ return to Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives, a short distance away, shows their obedience and readiness to follow Jesus’ command. The mention of the sabbath day’s journey reflects Jewish law, emphasizing their cultural context. This sets the stage for the community’s waiting and prayer.

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.

Study: Listing the apostles by name highlights the foundation of the early church leadership. The upper room setting suggests a private, prayerful gathering, emphasizing unity and devotion. This detail roots the church’s beginning in fellowship and shared mission.

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.

Study: The disciples, women, Mary the mother of Jesus, and His brethren united in prayer and supplication, showing the importance of communal dependence on God. This unity in prayer reflects the covenant community’s reliance on God’s guidance and power. It models the spiritual posture necessary for kingdom work.

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,)

Study: Peter’s leadership emerges as he addresses the group of about 120 believers, indicating the growing community. This number shows the early church’s size and diversity, emphasizing the widespread impact of Jesus’ ministry. Peter’s role underscores the importance of godly leadership in the church.

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.

Study: Peter refers to Scripture spoken by David to explain Judas’ betrayal, showing the fulfillment of prophecy even in difficult circumstances. This demonstrates God’s sovereign control over events and the reliability of Scripture. It encourages believers to trust God’s plan despite setbacks.

Acts 1:17

For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry.

Study: Judas’ inclusion in the ministry and subsequent fall highlights the seriousness of apostolic responsibility and the consequences of sin. This contrast warns believers about faithfulness and the dangers of betrayal. It also shows God’s justice in dealing with unfaithfulness.

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.

Study: The graphic description of Judas’ death reveals the tragic outcome of his betrayal and serves as a sobering warning. The purchase of the field with ill-gotten money symbolizes the cost of sin. This detail emphasizes the reality of judgment and the consequences of turning from God.

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.

Study: The field called Aceldama, or Field of Blood, became a known landmark, linking Judas’ betrayal to a physical place. This naming preserves the memory of sin’s consequences within the community. It also fulfills the prophetic words cited by Peter, reinforcing Scripture’s authority.

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.

Study: Peter quotes Psalms to justify replacing Judas, showing the early church’s commitment to Scripture in guiding decisions. The call for another to take Judas’ bishopric reflects the importance of maintaining faithful leadership. This practice underscores the covenant community’s responsibility to uphold holiness.

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,

Study: The criteria for Judas’ replacement emphasize the need for a witness who accompanied Jesus throughout His ministry. This requirement ensures continuity and credibility in apostolic testimony. It highlights the value of firsthand experience in proclaiming the resurrection.

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.

Study: The new apostle must be a witness of Jesus’ resurrection, underscoring the resurrection’s centrality to the Christian faith. This criterion affirms the resurrection as the foundation of the apostles’ message and authority. It also points to the necessity of reliable testimony in the church.

Acts 1:23

And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias.

Study: Two candidates, Joseph called Barsabas and Matthias, are presented, showing the community’s involvement in leadership selection. The use of surnames reflects common Jewish naming customs and helps identify individuals. This step demonstrates the church’s orderly approach to ministry.

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,

Study: The apostles pray for God’s guidance in choosing the right man, acknowledging that only God knows the heart. This dependence on divine wisdom models humility and trust in God’s sovereignty. It also shows the importance of prayer in church decisions.

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.

Study: The purpose of choosing a new apostle is to maintain the ministry and apostleship lost through Judas’ transgression, ensuring the mission continues. The phrase 'that he might go to his own place' hints at judgment, reinforcing accountability. This verse highlights the seriousness of apostolic office.

Acts 1:26

And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.

Study: The casting of lots to select Matthias reflects an ancient practice of seeking God’s will, accepted by the early church. Matthias’ addition restores the number of apostles to twelve, symbolizing God’s covenant people. This event marks the completion of the foundational apostolic group.

Acts 1 transitions from Jesus’ earthly ministry to the birth of the church empowered by the Holy Spirit. Jesus prepares His disciples by promising the Spirit’s power, instructing them to wait in Jerusalem, and commissioning them to be witnesses. His ascension confirms His exaltation and future return, while the early church responds with prayer, unity, and the replacement of Judas to maintain faithful leadership. This chapter sets the foundation for the church’s mission to spread the kingdom of God to all nations.

Lord, thank You for sending Your Holy Spirit to empower us as witnesses of Your kingdom. Help us to wait patiently on Your timing, to trust Your sovereign plan, and to be faithful in our calling. Unite us in prayer and purpose as we seek to glorify You in all we do. May we live boldly, proclaiming the hope of Christ’s resurrection and return. Amen.

• Pray daily for the Holy Spirit’s empowerment to witness boldly for Christ.
• Memorize Acts 1:8 to remind yourself of the Spirit’s promised power.
• Reflect on Jesus’ ascension and write how it encourages your faith.
• Join or start a prayer group focused on unity and mission.
• Read the Gospel of Luke chapters 24 and Acts 1 to see the continuity of Jesus’ ministry.
• Identify one person to share the gospel with this week and pray for boldness.
• Journal about areas where you need to trust God’s timing more fully.

Acts 1 lays the foundation for the church’s mission by showing Jesus’ final instructions, the promise of the Holy Spirit, and the apostles’ preparation. The chapter highlights God’s sovereign plan to empower believers to witness the kingdom, the significance of Jesus’ ascension, and the importance of prayerful unity and faithful leadership in the early church.

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