Men’s Discipleship Bible Study: Week 8

Acts 4:1-22

About Acts:

The book of Acts was written by Luke, who also authored the Gospel of Luke. Both writings are addressed to Theophilus at the beginning of each. The book of Acts chronicles the events and activities of the apostles and the early church immediately following the crucifixion, resurrection and ascension of Jesus. Because Acts is historical in nature, its lessons can easily be understood by taking it at face value.

Acts is assumed to have been originally written as early as just 30 years after Jesus ministry on earth, between 62-70 A.D. It stands to reason that a meticulous historian like Luke would have at least included the martyrdom of James (62 A.D.), Peter (64 A.D.), Paul (67 A.D.) or even the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 A.D. Since none of these events are recorded, it is almost certain the authorship took place before these events.

Background:

Acts 4 records the events immediately following a miracle in which God healed a 40-year-old beggar through Peter. This beggar was lame from birth and was now walking, jumping and praising God. A crowd had gathered around and Peter seized this opportunity to deliver the gospel message to all present. The number of Jews coming to faith in Christ is growing rapidly as Jesus’ disciples are busy fulfilling the Great Commission, much to the dismay of the spiritual and political authorities of the day. The Sanhedrin in Jerusalem was the highest ranking Jewish authority. They were the modern day equivalent to the U.S. Supreme Court. See John 18:12-14 for details on who Anna and Caiaphas were.

For Discussion:

  1. Who are the main characters in this passage?
  2. What are the major themes of this passage?
  3. Replay the story in your mind and imagine that you are Peter. John. Caiaphas. An onlooker? What might be going through your mind as you stand in the room?
  4. Where else in Scripture do we find the names Annas and Caiaphas?
  5. What, if anything, do you find remarkable about Peter’s response to the Sanhedrin?
  6. What, if anything, do you find remarkable about the Sanhedrin’s response to Peter and John?
  7. Where did Peter get the boldness to speak as he did?
  8. As men of God, what does this passage tell us about how He wants us to live?