Continuing the Testimony of the Acts of Jesus Christ (Acts 1:1-3)

Acts 1:1-3 provides an introduction to the book of Acts and sets the stage for the narrative that follows. In Acts 1:1-3, Luke addresses his writing to Theophilus, who is likely a patron or a person of high social status. He explains that his earlier work, the Gospel of Luke, was about all that Jesus began to do and teach, and that Acts will continue where the gospel left off. Luke describes how Jesus appeared to his disciples after his death and resurrection and gave them many convincing proofs that he was alive. He then ascended into heaven, leaving his disciples with instructions to wait in Jerusalem for the promised Holy Spirit.

The introduction highlights that Jesus is alive and that his ascension to heaven marks the beginning of a new phase in his ministry. The book of Acts tells the story of how the Holy Spirit empowers the disciples to spread the message of Jesus throughout the world, fulfilling the promise that he made to them before he ascended. It sets the tone for the rest of the book of Acts and establishes the central theme of the spread of the gospel. It also highlights the importance of the Holy Spirit in the life of the early church and in the lives of believers today. Finally, it emphasizes the historical reality of Jesus' resurrection and ascension, which are foundational to the Christian faith.