THE BOOK OF ACTS
STUDY GUIDE 3.2
Lesson 3: Major Themes of Acts
Section 2: The Apostles

OUTLINE FOR NOTES

II. Apostles

A. Unique

  1. Requirements

  2. Foundational Time

B. Authoritative

  1. Function

  2. Blessings

  3. Miracles

  4. Revelation

C. Varied

  1. Strategies

  2. Settings



REVIEW QUESTIONS

1. According to tradition, what became of most of the apostles?
     
2. What were the requirements of an apostle, according to Acts 1:21-26?   
     
3. How did Paul meet the requirements of an apostle?
     
4. Summarize Dr. Bayer’s perspective regarding the possibility of apostles today.
     
5. What does the Greek word for “apostle” (“apostolos”) mean literally?
     
6. According to Dr. Bayer, what was the key function of miracles throughout the Bible?
     
7. According to 2 Corinthians 12:12, what marked an apostle?
     
8. What were some of the strategies that confirmed the apostles' message?
     
9. In what settings did the apostles preach the message of the gospel? That is, what channels did they use?
     
10. What was the name of the new apostle appointed to replace Judas?
     
11. What differences distinguish the apostles from other missionaries sent out by Christ, according to Dr. Bayer?
     
12. What was Gamaliel’s advice regarding the apostles?



APPLICATION QUESTIONS

1. In what way do the apostles still serve as the foundation of the church? How does this affect you personally?

2. Why is it important to establish whether apostles still exist today?
(Have you heard of those who claim to be apostles today? What difference does this make in their ministry? What are the possible problems this might cause?)

3. Do you consider yourself to be "sent by God" to preach His message? How are you fulfilling that call?

4. What can we learn from the different ways and different places the apostles preached the gospel throughout the Book of Acts? In what new ways could you begin to share the message with others?