Unlock the world of early Christianity through the Acts of the Apostles.
This study guide offers clear, practical insight into Paul’s trial, the birth of the Christian name, and the spread of faith from Jerusalem to Rome.
Designed for Bible classes and Sunday schools, the material presents a grounded look at key events and themes. It explains how Paul defended his message, why Festus and Agrippa reacted as they did, and what the rise of the term “Christian” signified for believers and their neighbors. The discussion also covers prophetic voices like Agabus and the role of Antioch as a hub of early Christian teaching and mission.
- Understand how Paul answered accusations of madness and how this defense framed Christian credibility.
- Learn what the name Christian meant in the early church and why it mattered.
- Explore how prophecy and teachings shaped early missions and church life.
- See why Antioch became a central staging ground for spreading the gospel.
Ideal for readers seeking a grounded, classroom-friendly interpretation of the Acts narrative and its practical lessons for faith, teaching, and outreach.
Albert Barnes (1798-1870) received academic degrees from Hamilton College and Princeton Theological Seminary. He pastored the Presbyterian Church at Morristown, N.J. for five years before accepting the pastorate at the First Presbyterian Church in Philadephia. It was during his 37 years pastorate in Philadelphia that he found time to prepare his series of commentaries of which over two million copies have been sold in various editions.