What Are They Saying about Acts?

"What Are They Saying About Acts?" by Mark Allan Powell, presents the reader with present-day study of contemporary scholarship regarding the New Testament book of Acts. The book of Acts is one of the most important books of the New Testament, but for many years it has been neglected. The canonization of the book of Acts did not carry with it the enthusiasm of the Gospels. It wasn't until the fourth century that many were made aware of its existence. It is in Powell's book that the reader will gain a clear understanding of recent scholarship and be familiarized with the many schools of thought surrounding the book of Acts. It is important for the reader to understand the various things being said about the book of Acts and seek to recognize its theological and ecuminical importance for modern day application. There are many things that scholars do not agree on about the book of Acts. We must seek to endeavor together the possibilites of unity expressed in the writings of Luke. Powell's overview of current scholarship is educational and to some degree edifying. However, it is easy to get lost in the perspectives. A surface reading of the book of Acts reveals a clear emphasis on the Holy Spirit's power and guidance to untiy and freedom found in Christ. As Powell proposes, and of which I am in agreement... it is the "Acts of the Holy Spirit" and not the traditionally accepted "Acts of the Apostles." The promised Holy Spirit has come upon the disciples... this is the reason for the mighty works of Christ. What are those things essential to the book of Acts? I believe it is those things that are plain to the reader who has observed the Scripture in context. Let us continue to pursue our study of this great written account of God's salvation, not forgetting Christ's Spirit, seeking untiy among the believers. I also recommend reading: The Untold Story of the New Testament Church: An Extraordinary Guide to Understanding the New Testament Paul's Idea of Community: The Early House Churches in Their Cultural Setting, Revised Edition