Acts 1:1 – “In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach.”

Extended Explanation

Acts 1:1 is the opening verse of the book of Acts, written by Luke. He refers to his “former book,” which is the Gospel of Luke. This verse sets the stage for what follows in Acts—the continuation of Jesus’ work, now carried out by His apostles through the power of the Holy Spirit. Luke’s Gospel recorded what Jesus “began” to do and teach, implying that His work did not end with His ascension but continued through His followers.

This verse reminds us that Jesus’ mission did not stop at His resurrection. His earthly ministry laid the foundation, and His disciples were to carry on His teachings and spread the good news of salvation. Acts is a continuation of that story, showing how the early church was empowered by the Holy Spirit to continue the work of Christ.

Historical Context

Luke, a physician and companion of Paul (Colossians 4:14), wrote both the Gospel of Luke and the book of Acts. He addressed both books to a man named Theophilus, whose identity is uncertain. He may have been a high-ranking official, a wealthy patron funding Luke’s writings, or a general title meaning “lover of God” meant for all believers.

Acts was written in the first century, likely between A.D. 60-70, during the spread of Christianity throughout the Roman Empire. The early church faced persecution but also experienced tremendous growth as the apostles preached the gospel boldly. This book serves as a historical record of how the Christian faith expanded beyond its Jewish roots and reached the Gentiles.

Theological Implications

Acts 1:1 points to the ongoing work of Christ. Though He ascended to heaven, His presence remained through the Holy Spirit working in His followers. This verse teaches that:

1. Jesus’ ministry was only the beginning—His mission continues today through His church.
2. The Holy Spirit is the one who enables and empowers believers to carry on Christ’s work.
3. The Christian faith is not just about knowledge but action—Jesus both “did” and “taught.”
4. Scripture is a unified story, with Luke’s Gospel leading naturally into Acts.

This verse reminds us that faith is not passive. True faith in Christ leads to transformation and action.

Literary Analysis

Luke uses a formal introduction, similar to historical writings of that time. The phrase “In my former book” connects Acts directly to the Gospel of Luke, forming a two-part work. The phrase “all that Jesus began to do and to teach” is key—it suggests continuity. The work Jesus started did not end with His ascension but continues through the Holy Spirit.

The structure of Acts mirrors the way Greek historians wrote accounts of important figures and movements. This tells us that Luke wanted his readers to understand Acts as a historical narrative, not just spiritual encouragement.

Biblical Cross-References

• Luke 1:1-4 – The introduction to Luke’s Gospel, addressed to Theophilus, explaining his purpose in writing.
• Matthew 28:19-20 – The Great Commission, where Jesus commands His disciples to continue His work.
• John 14:16-17 – Jesus promises the Holy Spirit to be with His followers.
• Acts 28:31 – The closing verse of Acts, showing that Jesus’ message continues to be preached.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

Acts 1:1 is a reminder that Jesus is still at work today. His ministry did not end with His resurrection—it continues through His people. Christians are called to be His hands and feet, sharing the gospel and living out His teachings.

This verse challenges us to ask: Are we continuing the work of Christ? Are we actively living out His teachings, or are we just observing from the sidelines?

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse shows that God’s work did not stop with Jesus’ earthly ministry—He made a way for His love to reach all people. A loving God does not leave His children without guidance or help. Instead, He sent the Holy Spirit to empower believers, ensuring that His truth and grace continue to spread throughout the world.

The fact that Jesus’ work began but did not end reminds us that God’s love is ongoing, ever-reaching, and always active.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

This verse directly connects to Jesus because it speaks of His life and teachings. It also points forward to the role of the Holy Spirit, whom Jesus promised to send. Jesus’ mission was not just about His time on earth—it was about building a movement that would continue through His followers.

• John 16:7 – Jesus tells His disciples that it is better for Him to leave because He will send the Holy Spirit.
• Acts 1:8 – Jesus promises power through the Holy Spirit so that His followers can continue His work.
• Hebrews 13:8 – Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever—His work continues.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What does it mean that Jesus “began” to do and teach? How does His work continue today?
2. In what ways are you continuing the work of Christ in your daily life?
3. How does understanding Acts as a continuation of Jesus’ ministry change your perspective on the Christian life?
4. What role does the Holy Spirit play in equipping believers to carry on Jesus’ mission?
5. How can we, as individuals and as a church, better live out the teachings of Jesus in today’s world?