Click chart to enlarge
Charts from Jensen's Survey of the NT - used by permission
Another Chart - Swindoll - chart on right side
Related Articles:
A Spirit Filled Church
Our Anointing - The Holy Spirit
Praying in the Spirit
Spirit-Filled Believers Are Like Artesian Wells
Click chart to enlarge
| Paul's First Missionary Journey - map | Acts 13:4-14:28+ |
| Paul's Second Missionary Journey - map | Acts 15:36-18:22+ |
| Paul's Third Missionary Journey - map | Acts 18:23-21:26+ |
Maps related to Acts
- The Kingdom of Herod Agrippa I
- The Kingdom of Agrippa II
- Pentecost and the Jewish Diaspora
- Expansion of the Early Church in Palestine
- Paul’s Conversion and Early Ministry
- Paul’s Journeys
- The First Missionary Journey of Paul
- The Second Missionary Journey of Paul
- The Third Missionary Journey of Paul
- Paul’s Arrest and Imprisonment
- Paul’s Voyage to Rome
Explanation - The following list includes not only commentaries but other Christian works by well known evangelical writers. Most of the resources below are newer works (written after 1970) which previously were available only for purchase in book form or in a Bible computer program. The resources are made freely available by archive.org but have several caveats - (1) they do not allow copy and paste, (2) they can only be checked out for one hour (but can be checked out immediately when your hour expires giving you time to read or take notes on a lengthy section) and (3) they require creating an account which allows you to check out the books free of charge. To set up an account click archive.org and then click the picture of the person in right upper corner and enter email and a password. That's all you have to do. Then you can read these more modern resources free of charge! I have read or used many of these resources but not all of them so ultimately you will need to be a Berean (Acts 17:11+) as you use them. I have also selected works that are conservative and Biblically sound. If you find one that you think does not meet those criteria please send an email at https://www.preceptaustin.org/
Preaching Luke-Acts by Allen, Ronald J.
James Rosscup - This conservative commentary is a detailed work in the Greek and is well-written. The author did the famous Greek-English lexicon and two books on alleged contradictions.
Acts of the apostles by Allen, Ronald J
Turning to God : a study of conversion in the book of Acts and today by Barclay, William See discussion of his orthodoxy especially the article "The Enigmatic William Barclay".
The Acts of the Apostles: An Introduction and Commentary (Tyndale New Testament Commentaries) E. M. Blaiklock
The Preacher's Outline & Sermon Bible : New Testament, King James Version (POSB) - Acts, Romans, 1 Corinthians, 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians - This is a very useful resource which always includes numerous related cross-references. It will be of aid to you preaching and teaching.
Acts - Bible Study Commentary by Bruce, F. F. (1982) 124 pages - this is not the top rated NICNT version
The book of the Acts (New International Commentary on the New Testament) by Bruce, F. F (1988) 584 pages
Rosscup - This work, first issued in 1954, is now revised not long before Bruce died, with a new translation of the Greek text in place of the ASV. The bibliographical lists are extensively updated in footnotes, Bruce has interacted with later studies, arranged comments on fewer verses, and achieved a more lucid style in places. However, the basic verse-by-verse commentary remains substantially the same. It remains the finest commentary on Acts as to exposition in detail. Bruce points to I. H. Marshall’s commentary for detail on Luke’s theology. He shows a fine grasp of pertinent history, a sound explanation of most passages, and insights on many of the problems.
Keith Mathison (Lignonier) - First published in 1954, F.F. Bruce’s commentary on Acts in the NICNT series soon became a standard conservative evangelical commentary. In 1988, his commentary was revised and updated. It still remains one of the best commentaries on this book of Scripture.
Tim Challies - F.F. Bruce has two commentaries on Acts and the contribution to the NICNT series is regarded as the stronger of the two. Not only that, but it is regarded as one of the very best works on the book. A couple of commentators on the commentaries point out that Bruce is especially strong on the historical aspect of Acts.
The Acts of the Apostles: the Greek text with introduction and commentary by Bruce, F. F. (1990) 608 pages. Somewhat Technical.
New Bible Commentary - (1994) Bruce, F. F. “The Acts of the Apostles,” in New Bible Commentary. A boiled down version of Bruce’s expertise, quite helpful in itself.
Acts by Calvin, Jean Crossway Classic Commentaries.
Cyril Barber - Contains all of the remarkable insights of the first English edition without the stilted language. This is a work that deserves a place in every pastor’s library.
The Acts; an exposition by Erdman, Charles R
James Rosscup - Concise treatments are given to each of the N. T. books. The main value of the set lies in its clear synthesis which helps the student grasp the flow of thought as he moves through a book. Erdman possessed a lucid writing style. He was amillennial.
The Acts of the Apostles a new translation with introduction and commentary by Fitzmyer, Joseph A
Mathison at Ligonier gives it runner up status in best commentaries on Acts.
Cyril Barber - Begins with a translation of the entire book, followed by a closely reasoned explanation of title, authorship, date, and purpose of Acts. Essays discuss the text and sources, the composition and form-critical analysis, language and style, and historical character of Acts, etc. The exposition combines historic and linguistic data, but offers minimal help to preachers.
Acts by Gangel, Kenneth - This is more like a workbook with questions and short explanatory notes.
Cyril Barber commenting on Gangel's more extensive work in the Holman NT Commentary says "Clearly written, and with the theme of Luke’s second work cogently presented, this commentary does justice to the biblical text and the purpose for which this historic account was produced. Gangel follows the best interpretative tradition and then applies the principles in the best possible manner.
Luke-Acts and New Testament historiography by Green, Joel B
The apostolic church by Harrison, Everett Falconer, 1902- Not a commentary on book of Acts but the church that begins in Acts.
Acts and the history of earliest Christianity by Hengel, Martin,
Cyril Barber - Asserts the essential reliability of the book of Acts and examines Luke's historical-theological methodology.
An introduction to the New Testament - the Gospels and Acts Volume 1 by Hiebert, D. Edmond
Cyril Barber - Describes the regional, social and cultural milieu of the Roman Empire during the first century A.D. Part 1 covers such topics as travel by ship as well as along the Roman roads of Asia Minor; also food shortages, diverse Roman religions, the urban elites, and the emergence of the house church. Part 2 describes in detail the various Roman provinces and the establishment of the early church. A final chapter discusses Luke’s geographic limits and the Jewish and Roman cultures it contained.
The Book of Acts in its Graeco-Roman setting Gill, David W., and Conrad Gempf, eds
A commentary on the original text of the Acts of the Apostles by Hackett, Horatio Balch e
Cyril Barber - Insightful, reliable, and always worth consulting. Reprinted from the revised edition of 1882.
Kingdom power : receiving the power of the promise : a study in the book of Acts by Hayford, Jack W
The book of Acts by Horton, Stanley Pentecostal perspectiv
The message of Acts in the history of redemption by Johnson, Dennis E.
Mathison at Ligonier gives it runner up status in best commentaries on Acts.
Cyril Barber - Examines the major themes of Acts and links the OT with the NT while explaining the contribution of Acts to the history of redemption. Though not a commentary, this study will enrich each reader’s understanding of the history of the period.
Acts : an exegetical commentary by Keener, Craig S., 1208 pages
Keith Mathison (Lignonier) - Craig Keener’s four-volume commentary on Acts is not for everyone. At 4,500 pages, few will ever read all of it. But if you are looking for an exhaustive commentary that deals with every conceivable question, then, clear out about a foot and a half of shelf space and pick up this commentary (bend your knees when you do so). This will probably be the standard evangelical commentary on Acts for at least the next half century. For those who do not need a commentary with a bibliography longer than most other books, Keener also has an abridged version of his commentary that is only 635 pages.
Jerusalem to Rome; studies in the Book of Acts by Kent, Homer Austin,
Cyril Barber - In recounting the beginning and expansion of the early church, the writer reveals the personal struggles of those who participated in the events recorded by Luke. The inclusion of discussion questions makes this an ideal volume for adult Bible study groups.
Acts Augsburg Commentary on the New Testament by Krodel, Gerhard (Lutheran perspective)
Cyril Barber - Designed for laypeople. Explains in non-technical language the essential thrust of this portion of the canon.
A bibliography of the periodical literature on the Acts of the Apostles, 1962-1984 by Mills, Watson E
Cyril Barber - This volume is intended to supplement the indispensible work of A. J. and M. B. Mattill, A Classified Bibliography of Literature on the Acts of the Apostles (which concluded with entries up to 1962). The material in this volume is arranged alphabetically. The indexing to periodical literature is impressive. It succeeds in bringing within the purview of the student or researcher a wealth of important data.
The Acts of the apostles by Morgan, G. Campbell
Studies in the Acts of the apostles by Moule, C. F. D Short work (104 pages) by respected Anglican pastor.
Acts : based on the Revised standard version by Neil, William
Cyril Barber - New Century Bible Commentary. 1981. Based on the RSV This handy commentary does not provide an exposition of the theme but, rather, furnishes readers with perceptive comments on select words or phrases.
The Communicator's Commentary. Acts by Ogilvie, Lloyd John - (This is now known as the Preacher's Commentary and states that the goal is to aid preachers and teachers.)
Drumbeat of Love : the unlimited power of the Spirit as revealed in the Book of Acts by Ogilvie, Lloyd John
The Acts of the Apostles : an exposition Rackham, Richard. Also available below with no time limit.
Cyril Barber - The reissue in an overpriced paperback format of one of the great commentaries on the book of Acts.
Growth of the Body : [Acts 13-20] by Stedman, Ray C
Adventuring through the life of Christ : a Bible handbook on the Gospels and Acts by Stedman, Ray C
The Words of the Apostles by Stier, Rudolf;
Cyril Barber - Examines the public ministry of the apostles and expounds each message with insight and skill. A must for every student of the book of Acts.
The strength of an exacting passion : a study of Acts 18:18-28:31 by Swindoll, Charles
The church of the first days : lectures on the Acts of the Apostles by Vaughan, Charles John
Cyril Barber - Vaughan achieved justifiable acclaim for his expositional commentaries on Romans, Philippians, and Revelation. C. H. Spurgeon wrote of this work on Acts, "Not only does Dr. Vaughan expound his text in the ablest manner, but he introduces passages of Scripture so aptly that he suggests discourses:' This is a work of rare merit, and it will be appreciated by those who use it wisely.
Acts : Bible study commentary by Vaughan, Curtis - Conservative. Simple, easy to understand comments.
Be Dynamic (Acts 1-12) by Warren Wiersbe
Be Daring : put your faith where the action is (Acts 13-28) by Wiersbe, Warren Cyril Barber - Continues the author's popular exposition of the Book of Acts. Shows how the power of God is available to work through ordinary people to accomplish His purposes in the Church and in the world. Recommended.
Wiersbe Commentary on Acts in Pdf - 88 pages
The Bible Exposition Commentary by Wiersbe, Warren W - All NT books in one source. Excellent. Rosscup - One of America’s most appreciated staunchly evangelical Bible conference teachers gives diligent, refreshing expositions. These are all of his 23 separate, earlier books in the “Be” series on the New Testament. He strikes a particular appeal with lay people as he crystallizes sections, deals with some of the verses, handles certain problems and backgrounds and applies principles. He is premillennial.
Bible Exposition Commentary - New Testament and Bible Exposition Commentary - Old Testament
With the Word - Devotional Commentary - Chapter by Chapter Warren Wiersbe - Excellent to help summarize a chapter.
Wiersbe's Expository Outlines on the New Testament by Wiersbe, Warren W - helpful ponts for teaching and preaching
Cyril Barber - This is a book of exceptional merit. Pastors, missionaries, and Christian workers will profit from its use. Wiersbe introduces each book of the NT, provides an outline, and then furnishes his readers with a chapter-by-chapter discussion of the contents. The homiletic style is a “plus.” Recommended.
Acts by Williams, David John Mathison at Ligonier gives it runner up status of best commentaries on Acts.
STUDY BIBLES, ONE VOLUME COMMENTARIES OF BIBLE,
BIBLE DICTIONARIES, GENERAL REFERENCE WORKS
Note: The first 4 resources have no time restriction and allow copy and paste function:
(1) KJV Bible Commentary - Hindson, Edward E; Kroll, Woodrow Michael. Over 3000 pages of the entire OT/NT. Well done conservative commentary that interprets Scripture from a literal perspective. Pre-millennial -generally gets 4/5 stars from users. -
Very well done conservative commentary that interprets Scripture from a literal perspective
The King James Version Bible Commentary is a complete verse-by-verse commentary. It is comprehensive in scope, reliable in scholarship, and easy to use. Its authors are leading evangelical theologians who provide practical truths and biblical principles. Any Bible student will gain new insights through this one-volume commentary based on the timeless King James Version of the Bible.
(2) The King James Study Bible Second Edition 2240 pages (2013) (Thomas Nelson) General Editor - Edward Hindson with multiple contributing editors. . . Pre-millennial. See introduction on How to Use this Study Bible.
(3) NKJV Study Bible: New King James Version Study Bible (formerly "The Nelson Study Bible - NKJV") by Earl D Radmacher; Ronald Barclay Allen; Wayne H House. 2345 pages. (1997, 2007). Very helpful notes. Conservative. Pre-millennial.
(4) The Wycliffe Bible Commentary - only the New Testament (for OT see below to borrow) - 1126 pages. (1971) Everett F Harrison - Editor of New Testament. Uses the KJV. Strictly speaking not a study Bible, but short notes are similar. KJV text in left column, commentary notes in right column. The comments are generally verse by verse, short, conservative and to the point. Pre-millennial.
Most of the following have a one hour time limit
The MacArthur study Bible - John MacArthur. Brief but well done notes
ESV Study Bible - Excellent resource but not always literal in eschatology and the nation of Israel
HCSB Study Bible : Holman Christian Standard Bible - General Editor Jeremy Royal Howard (2010) 2360 pages. Conservative. Good notes. Include Holmans excellent maps. One hour limit
Life Application Study Bible : New Living Translation. Has some very helpful notes. s
The David Jeremiah Study Bible - (2013) 2208 pages.
The Defender's Study Bible : King James Version by Morris, Henry M. Excellent notes for well known creationist.
The Holman Illustrated Study Bible Includes the excellent Holman maps but otherwise of little help in serious study.
The Ryrie Study Bible - Charles Ryrie (1978) 2142 pages. Conservative.
NIV Study Bible - (2011) 2570 pages - Use this one if available as it has more notes than edition below. One hour limit
NLT Study Bible (Illustration Version)
The Living Insights Study Bible : New International Version - Charles Swindoll. Notes are good but somewhat sparse and not verse by verse.
NIV Archaeological Study Bible (2005) 2360 pages (See also Archaeology and the Bible - OT and NT)
NIV Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible. Bringing to Life the Ancient World of Scripture Keener, Craig and Walton, John. Editors (2017)
Disciple's Study Bible: New international version Not that helpful for verse by verse study. Focuses on application of Christian doctrines. 10,000 annotations; doctrinal summaries, "Life Helps" section relate doctrine to everyday discipleship.
The Word in life Study Bible - Very interesting format. Not your routine study Bible. Worth checking the very informative notes. (e.g., here is a picture of Jesus' post-resurrection appearances.)
Wycliffe Bible Commentary - OT and NT - Everett F Harrison - Editor of New Testament. Uses the KJV. Charles F Pfeiffer - Editor of the Old Testament. 1560 pages (1962). s Less detailed than the KJV Bible Commentary.
The Experiencing God Study Bible : the Bible for knowing and doing the will of God - Blackaby, Henry (1996) 1968 pages - CHECK THIS ONE! Each chapter begins with several questions under the title "PREPARE TO MEET GOD." Then you will interesting symbols before many of the passages. The chapter ends with a "DID YOU NOTICE?" question. This might make a "dry chapter" jump off the page! R
Believer's Bible Commentary by MacDonald, William (1995) 2480 pages - Dr. John MacArthur, Jr. - "Concise yet comprehensive - the most complete single-volume commentary I have seen." Warren Wiersbe - "For the student who is serious about seeing Christ in the Word."
Compact Bible commentary by Radmacher, Earl D; Allen, Ronald Barclay; House, H Wayne, et al - 954 pages. Multiple contributors to the comments which are often verse by verse. The comments are brief but meaty and can really help your study through a given book. A sleeper in my opinion.
The Expositor's Bible Commentary - 1994 edition - Abridged - New Testament
Evangelical Commentary on the Bible - editor Walter Elwell (1989) 1239 pages.
New Bible Commentary - (1994)
NIV Archaeological Study Bible (2005) 2360 pages (See also Archaeology and the Bible - OT and NT)
J.Sidlow Baxter: Explore The Book - pdf Vol. 6 Acts to Revelation
Jensen's Survey of the NT - a classic with suggestions for studying each book of the Bible
What the Bible is all about by Mears, Henrietta What the Bible is all about OR here - What the Book is all about
NIV cultural backgrounds study Bible. bringing to life the ancient world of scripture Keener, Craig and Walton, John. Editors (2017)
The illustrated guide to Bible customs & curiosities by Knight, George W. (George William),
Today's handbook of Bible times & customs by Coleman, William L
Eerdmans' family encyclopedia of the Bible (1978) 344 pages
Eerdmans' handbook to the Bible (1983) 688 pages
The Lion handbook to the Bible - (1999) 822 pages. This resource is absolutely loaded with very nice color pictures and charts.
Tyndale handbook of Bible charts & maps by Wilson, Neil
Bible handbook and A-Z bible encyclopedia
International children's Bible field guide : answering kids' questions from Genesis to Revelation by Richards, Larry
The Shaw pocket Bible handbook - Editor - Walter Elwell (1984) 408 pages.
"This hardback is small in size but packed full of content: Brief summaries of every book of the bible, cultural, archaeological and historical info, word definitions, pictures, maps and charts." Worth checking!
Zondervan illustrated Bible backgrounds commentary - New Testament - 552 pages. (2002)
The new Unger's Bible dictionary by Unger, Merrill Frederick, 1909-
Survey of the Bible : introductory insights, background studies, book-by- book survey by Unger, Merrill Frederick
The parallel New Testament and Unger's Bible handbook : produced for Moody monthly by Unger, Merrill (1975) 744 pages
The Hodder Bible handbook by Unger, Merrill
Nelson's expository dictionary of the Old Testament by Unger, Merrill
Kregel Bible handbook : a full-color guide to every book of the Bible by Kerr, William
Zondervan handbook to the Bible
Dictionary of Biblical Imagery - free for use online with no restrictions (i.e., you do not need to borrow this book). Editors Leland Ryken, J C Wilhoit, Tremper Longman III - This is a potential treasure chest to aid your preaching and teaching as it analyzes the meaning of a host of Biblical figures of speech. Clue - use the "One-page view" which then allows you to copy and paste text. One downside is there is no index, so you need to search 3291 pages for entries which are alphabetical.
Dictionary of Paul and his letters IVP Series The Dictionary of Paul and His Letters is a one-of-a-kind reference work. Following the format of its highly successful companion volume, the Dictionary of Jesus and the Gospels, this Dictionary is designed to bring students, teachers, ministers and laypeople abreast of the established conclusions and significant recent developments in Pauline scholarship. No other single reference work presents as much information focused exclusively on Pauline theology, literature, background and scholarship.
Dictionary of the later New Testament & its developments IVP Series The third of IVP's critically acclaimed series of dictionaries of the New Testament provides focused study on the often-neglected portions of the New Testament: Acts, Hebrews, the General Epistles, and Revelation. Furthermore, its scope goes beyond the life of the New Testament church to include the work of the apostolic fathers and early Christianity up through the middle of the second century.
Dictionary of New Testament background IVP Series In a time when our knowledge of the ancient Mediterranean world has grown by leaps and bounds, this volume sets out for readers the wealth of Jewish and Greco-Roman background that should inform our reading and understanding of the New Testament and early Christianity. The Dictionary of New Testament Background takes full advantage of the flourishing study of the Dead Sea Scrolls and offers individual articles focused on the most important scrolls. In addition, the Dictionary encompasses the fullness of second-temple Jewish writings, whether pseudepigraphic, rabbinic, parables, proverbs, histories or inscriptions. Articles abound on aspects of Jewish life and thought, including family, purity, liturgy and messianism. The full scope of Greco-Roman culture is displayed in articles ranging across language and rhetoric, literacy and book culture, religion and cults, honor and shame, patronage and benefactors, travel and trade, intellectual movements and ideas, and ancient geographical perspectives. No other reference work presents so much in one place for students of the New Testament. Here an entire library of scholarship is made available in summary form.
APOLOGETICS, ETC
When Critics Ask - A Popular Handbook on Bible Difficulties - Norman Geisler and Thomas Howe
Encyclopedia of Bible Difficulties - Gleason Archer
Hard Saying of the Bible Walter C. Kaiser Jr.
The Apologetics Study Bible Understand Why You Believe by Norman Geisler
Systematic Theology - An Introduction to Bible Doctrine (first edition) - Wayne Grudem
More than a Carpenter - Josh McDowell's classic - good book to suggest to your skeptical friends!
New Evidence that Demands a Verdict (Evidence I and Evidence II updated and in one volume) (or here) - Josh McDowell
Who Moved the Stone? by Frank Morison
THE LIST BELOW IS FOR GREEK (AND HEBREW) WORD STUDIES
IF YOU WANT TO DIG A LITTLE DEEPER INTO THE TEXT
See also the list of Word Study Resources
The Complete Word Study Dictionary: New Testament by Zodhiates, Spiros - This is my "go to" resource for Greek word studies. One on the best lexicons for laymen. Highly Recommended for Greek Word Studies to aid your interpretation of a passage.
Analytical Lexicon of the Greek New Testament by Friberg, Timothy. Shorter definitions than Zodhiates but does an excellent job in summarizing the various nuances of a specific Greek word. One of my favorites.
Shorter Lexicon of the Greek New Testament by Gingrich, F. Wilbur. Similar to Friberg but shorter definitions. Gingrich however gives more Scriptures for each nuance, whereas Friberg generally gives only one representative Scripture.
The New Linguistic and Exegetical Key to the Greek New Testament by Rogers, Cleon - A sleeper. This book is a gold mine of little gems on individual Greek words in any NT passage you are studying. If you have time it is always worth checking out! I use it for my Greek word studies all the time.
Word meanings in the New Testament - Matthew-Revelation by Ralph Earle. Strictly speaking this is not a lexicon, but it offers insights on select words in a verse by verse format (but not every verse is included in the analysis). This resource is worth checking if you have time as it can occasionally give some wonderful insights on a specific Greek word.
New Testament Words - William Barclay - very interesting resource - covers about 70 NT Greek words in Barclay's unique style. On page 289 there is a helpful index of English words with the corresponding Greek word, in turn followed by the places Barclay described them in New Testament Words and in his Daily Study Bible series (see list of DSB commentaries here). E.g., take the Greek word for "Covetousness" which is pleonexia and is found in New Testament Words on page 61 and pp 233-235 and is also described in the Daily Study Bible entries for : Mark 7:14-23; Ro 1:28-32; Eph. 4:17-24; Col. 3:5. So you can click the DSB commentary on Mark 7 and scroll down to Mark 7:14 to see Barclay's entry for pleonexia which concludes "Pleonexia ( G4124) is that lust for having which is in the heart of the man who sees happiness in things instead of in God." Interesting!
Greek-English lexicon of the New Testament : based on semantic domains - Louw Nida. Brief but nice definitions. Not easy to use - you need to know some Greek. Classifies Greek words into 93 "semantic domains" (see list on page XXV) and if you can categorize the word you are looking for in one of the domains, it can help find the specific word you are interested in.
Kittel's Theological Dictionary of the New Testament : abridged in one volume (TDNT) - Classic ("Little Kittel") work summarizing the 10 volume set by Kittel. For most of us the abridged definition is "more than enough!"
A Greek-English lexicon of the New Testament, and other early Christian literature (BDAG); by Bauer, Walter, More detailed definitions but need to know Greek. Zodhiates and Friberg are much easier to use.
Liddell and Scott's Greek-English lexicon, abridged : the little Liddell by Liddell, Henry George. The abridged version. You need to know Greek to use.
Vine's Expository Dictionary of Old Testament and New Testament Words - pdf. The old standby. You can also borrow Vine's complete expository dictionary of Old and New Testament words
New Testament Words in Today's Language by Detzler, Wayne A - Wonderful resource to supplement word studies. THIS IS A SLEEPER!
Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament by Harris, R. Laird - One of the best OT lexicons for laymen. Here is another link to the TWOT which has no time limit on use and does allow copy/paste
Considering the fact that Acts 13 is such a strategic chapter in regard to world evangelism, take a moment and study Irving Jensen's chart at top of the page (click it to enlarge it which is what I have to do at age 72!). Notice the bold vertical line (|) at the end of Acts 12 and beginning of Acts 13 which Jensen estimates to be about year 47 (it could be a short time prior). Note the horizontal description of "Church" - Church Established in the first 13 years from Acts 1 through Acts 7, then the Church Scattered between Acts 8 through Acts 12, which occurred over a period of about 14 years (and remember all dates and times are at best approximations because Luke gives only a few events that allow us to give specific dates, such as the death of Herod in A D 44 in Acts 12:23) and lastly, beginning in Acts 13 (and until the end of this age), the Church Extended, this extension being the primarily the fruit of Paul's Three Missionary Journeys which"upset the world!" (Acts 17:6) Now, you have a good grasp of the chronological context of Acts 13. And as they say in the restaurant when your delicious meal is served "Enjoy!" The three missionary journeys are summarized below (this note will be repeated in subsequent chapters). Click links for the maps of each journey.
| Paul's First Missionary Journey | Acts 13:4-14:28 |
| Paul's Second Missionary Journey | Acts 15:36-18:22 |
| Paul's Third Missionary Journey | Acts 18:23-21:26 |
- Maps in table above are from the Holman Bible Atlas (digital book; Hardcover/Paperback version) copyrighted © 1998 B&H Publishing Group, used by permission, all rights reserved. This is one of the best resources for Bible maps as the maps also include helpful short descriptions of the events portrayed on the maps. Please do not download for use on another website. Thank you.
- Here is a map with all three journeys on one map.
| FIRST | SECOND | THIRD |
|
|
|
Charles Swindoll points out that "When we study the journeys of Paul in the book of Acts, we’re not just reading the travel log of a man; we’re observing the redemptive plan of God unfolding as He promised. Through the ministry of Saul of Tarsus, God’s mission to reclaim His creation from the death grip of evil would move to its next stage. The plan of this mission was outlined in the Lord’s promise at His ascension, where He said,
“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses...
- In Jerusalem [Stage 1: Acts 2–7],
- and in all Judea and Samaria [Stage 2: Acts 8–12],
- and even to the remotest part of the earth [Stage 3: Acts 13–28].” (Acts 1:8+)
John Hannah's Outline for Second Missionary Journey
- The second missionary journey of Paul (Acts 15:36-18:22)
- The preparation for the ministry (Acts 15:36-16:5)
- The conflict between Barnabas and Paul (Acts 15:36-40)
- The confirmation of the churches (Acts 15:41-16:5)
- The ministry in Macedonia (Acts 16:6-17:15)
- The call from Macedonia (Acts 16:6-10)
- Arrival at Samothrace and Neapolis (Acts 16:11)
- Ministry at Philippi (Acts 16:12-40)
- The conversion of Lydia (Acts 16:12-15)
- The demon possessed slave girl (Acts 16:16-18)
- The imprisonment of Paul and Silas (Acts 16:19-25)
- The release of Paul and Silas (Acts 16:26-27)
- The conversion of the jailor (Acts 16:28-34)
- The departure from the city (Acts 16:35-40)
- The ministry in Thessalonica (Acts 17:1-9)
- The message (Acts 17:1-3)
- The response of belief (Acts 17:4)
- The response of unbelief (Acts 17:5-9)
- The ministry in Berea (Acts 17:10-15)
- The ministry (Acts 17:11-12)
- The departure (Acts 17:13-15)
- The ministry in Achaia (Acts 17:16-18:17)
- The ministry in Athens (Acts 17:16-34)
- His message in Athens (Acts 17:16-30)
- The response in Athens (Acts 17:31-34)
- The ministry in Corinth (Acts 18:1-17)
- Arrival in Corinth (Acts 18:1-4)
- His ministry to the Corinthians (Acts 18:5-11)
- The trial before Gallio (Acts 18:12-17)
- The ministry in Athens (Acts 17:16-34)
- The ministry on the return to Antioch (Acts 18:18-22)
- In Cenchrea (Acts 18:18)
- In Ephesus (Acts 18:19-21)
- In Antioch (Acts 18:22)
- The preparation for the ministry (Acts 15:36-16:5)
Hannah's Bible Outlines - Recommended Resource
- Stage 1: Tent Making (Acts 18:1-4)
- Paul’s coworkers (Acts 18:1-3)
- Paul’s work ethic (Acts 18:3-4)
- Stage 2: Full-Time Ministry (Acts 18:5-8)
- Support (Acts 18:5)
- Opposition (Acts 18:6)
- Fruitfulness (Acts 18:7-8)
- Stage 3: Weakness and Fear (Acts 18:9-10)
- The Lord’s Gentle Rebuke (Acts 18:9a)
- The Lord’s Strong Mandate (Acts 18:9b)
- The Lord’s Sovereign Promises (Acts 18:10)
- Stage 4: Long-Term Discipleship (Acts 18:11-17)
- Paul Returns to Antioch (Acts 18:18-22) (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary – Exalting Jesus in Acts)
JOSEPH ALEXANDER
Cyril Barber - A beautifully produced work that brings within the reach of the busy pastor the benefits of this commentator's prodigious labors. A warmly devotional treatment.
James Rosscup: "This work, originally out in 1857, has proved helpful to many, though it is now far out of date as to literature commenting on Acts. For many basic details verse by verse, it still is of good value and often will help on word meaning and special problems. The fact that it was reprinted is indicative of its respected place in Acts studies." (Commentaries for Biblical Expositors)
Ajith Fernando - Loaded with exegetical and devotional gems, though dated.
D Edmond Hiebert - An exhaustive exposition of Acts by a conservative Presbyterian scholar of the past century. Gives a precise interpretation of the text on the basis of the original. Omission of technical matters makes it suitable to the English reader.
Spurgeon: "In all respects a work of the highest merit."
HENRY ALFORD
- Acts 18 Commentary
- Acts 18 Commentary - less Greek
FRANK ALLEN
GREG ALLEN
MIKE ANDRUS - FEFC Wichita - sermons - audio with excellent transcripts - recommended
PAUL APPLE
- Acts Commentary - more modern study
JACK ARNOLD - well done sermons verse by verse
WILLIAM ARNOT
Cyril Barber - First published in 1883. These sermons reveal Arnot's thorough awareness of the original text and the milieu of the early church. His material is provocative as well as edifying. Both laypeople and pastors should read this book eagerly in order to better determine the course of the church, its commitments, and the criteria of its fellowship. Recommended.
- Acts 18:1-9 The World by Wisdom Knew Not God
- Acts 18:9-17 The Missionary and the Governor
- Acts 18:18-28 Paul and Apollos
WAYNE BARBER
- Paul the Missionary- Part 1
- Paul the Missionary- Part 2
- Paul the Missionary- Part 3
- Paul the Missionary- Part 4
- Paul the Missionary- Part 5
- Paul the Missionary- Part 6
- Paul the Missionary- Part 7
- Paul the Missionary- Part 8
- Paul the Missionary- Part 9
- Paul the Missionary- Part 10
- Paul the Missionary- Part 11
- Paul the Missionary- Part 12
WILLIAM BARCLAY
ALBERT BARNES
BRIAN BELL
JOHANN BENGEL
BIBLICAL ILLUSTRATOR
JIM BOMKAMP
- Acts 18:1-18 "Preaching Christ And Him Crucified In Corinth"
- Acts 18:19-19:10 "The Third Missionary Journey Begins"
JOHN CALVIN
Cyril Barber - This is a work that deserves a place in every pastor’s library.
CAMBRIDGE GREEK TESTAMENT
CAMBRIDGE BIBLE
RICH CATHERS
ADAM CLARKE
STEVEN COLE - recommended
TOM CONSTABLE
W A CRISWELL
- Acts 18:1-11 GOD’S TENTMAKERS
- Acts 18:9 THE LIVING CHRIST
- Acts 18:5-10 GODLY ENCOURAGEMENT
- Acts 18:1-11 GOD’S TENTMAKERS
- Acts 18:24-28 THE BRILLIANT ALEXANDRIAN: APOLLOS
- Acts 18:24-28 A SHINING STAR FOR CHRIST
JOHN CHRYSOSTOM
BOB DEFFINBAUGH
DAN DUNCAN
JOHN EADIE
Cyril Barber - This companion volume to Steir's The Words of the Risen Saviour and Words of the Apostles deals with the messages of the apostle Paul in the book of Acts. C. H. Spurgeon said Eadie's work was "designed to give ordinary readers a juster and fuller conception of the doctrine and life-work of the apostle:' Recommended.
- XI. PAUL AT CORINTH - Acts 18:1–18. 1ST & 2ND EPISTLES TO THE CORINTHIANS
- XII. PAUL AT EPHESUS - Acts 19:1–41. 1 Cor 15:31, 32; 16:8, 9. 2 Cor 1:8, 9, 10.
EXPOSITOR'S BIBLE
EXPOSITOR'S GREEK TESTAMENT - R J Knowling
D Edmond Hiebert - Greek text. Still one of the most thorough commentaries on the Greek text. Significant for the Greek student.
Rosscup notes that Expositor's Greek Testament is "One of the older, much-used commentaries, which offers considerable help on Greek words, grammar, background etc. and will prove rather contributive, consulted along with newer and longer studies." (Commentaries for Biblical Expositors: An Annotated Bibliography of Selected Works).
DON FORTNER
- Discovering Christ in Acts - 352 pages
MICHAEL FRONCZAK
WILLIAM FURNEAUX
A C GAEBELEIN
- Acts 18 Commentary
- Acts 18 Commentary - different resource
GENE GETZ - short videos (~10) emphasizing principles in the text
- Acts 18:1-28; Video Serving Together: Spiritual leaders should encourage husband and wife teams to look for unique ministry opportunities.
GEORGE H GILBERT
JOHN GILL
GLOAG, PATON J - exegetical commentary - helps to know some Greek
Spurgeon "Dr. Hackett says aye Dr. Gloag's work: "I have examined it with special care. For my purposes I have found it unsurpassed by any similar work in the English language. It shows a thorough mastery of the material, philology, history, and literature pertaining to this range of study, and a skill in the use of this knowledge, which places it in the first class of modern expositions." (Commenting on Commentaries - excellent resource with links to all 66 books)
- A Critical and Exegetical Commentary on the Acts of the Apostles - Volume 1 - Acts 1-12
- A Critical and Exegetical Commen - Acts 13-28
GOSPEL COALITION
GOTQUESTIONS - questions related to the book of Acts
- Acts 18:10 Who are the elect of God?
- Acts 18:10 How can I know if I am one of the elect?
- Acts 18:10 How are predestination and election connected with foreknowledge?
- Who was Apollos?
- The baptism of John
GRACE NOTES - Expositional Study by Warren Doud
L M GRANT
DAVE GUZIK
HORATIO B HACKETT
Cyril Barber - Insightful, reliable, and always worth consulting.
JAMES HASTINGS
MATTHEW HENRY
F B HOLE
DAVID HOLWICK
BARRY HORNER
H A IRONSIDE
IVP COMMENTARY - William Larkin - Excellent Commentary
Cyril Barber - Historically helpful. Contains some important insights. Critical matters are confined to the footnotes. Oriented toward the pastorate.
- THE CHURCH IN ALL NATIONS: PAUL'S MISSIONARY JOURNEYS (13:1-21:16)
- Acts 18:1-22 Witness at Corinth and Return to Antioch
- Acts 18:23--21:16 The Third Missionary Journey
- Acts 18:23--19:22 At Ephesus Planting the Church
JAMIESON, FAUSSET, BROWN
- Acts 18 Commentary
- Acts 18 Commentary - Unabridged
LOWELL JOHNSON - Sermons - click here for the sermons below
- Too Soon to Quit Acts 18:1-22
- The Missing Ingredient in the Modern Church Acts 18:23-19:7
S LEWIS JOHNSON
- Acts 18:1-23 The Gospel at Vanity Fair: Acts
- Acts 18:18-9:7 Belated Entrance Into the Covenant Age: Acts
WILLIAM KELLY
STEVE KRELOFF
PAUL KRETZMANN
LANGE COMMENTARY
DAVID LEGGE
JOHN MACARTHUR
- Acts 18:1-8 The Gospel in Vanity Fair, Part 1
- Acts 18:9-10 The Gospel in Vanity Fair, Part 2
- Acts 18:11-18 The Gospel in Vanity Fair, Part 3
- Acts 18:18-23 From Judaism to Jesus, Part 1
- Acts 18:24-28 From Judaism to Jesus, Part 2
ALEXANDER MACLAREN
P G MATTHEW - sermons
F B MEYER
J VERNON MCGEE
MONERGISM
G CAMPBELL MORGAN
HENRY MORRIS - Excellent, conservative, literal study Bible notes from a leading Creationist.
- Acts 18:1 - Corinth
- Acts 18:2 - Priscilla
- Acts 18:3 - occupation
- Acts 18:10 - occupation
- Acts 18:12 - Gallio
- Acts 18:17 - Sosthenes
- Acts 18:18 - shorn his head
- Acts 18:25 - This man was instructed
NET BIBLE NOTES
PHIL NEWTON
OUR DAILY BREAD - Devotional
- Acts 18 Devotionals
- Acts 18:1-4 Opening Our Homes
- Acts 18:1-3, 18-28 An Unusual Couple?
- Acts 18:1-11 Many People
- Acts 18:9-11 In All Kinds Of Weather
- Acts 18:18-28 Helpful Honks
- Acts 18:24-28 Eloquent, Yet Humble
T E PAGE
PASTOR LIFE
| Facing Fear | Acts 18:9-10 | Fear, Overcoming; Faith; Trust; Peace | Mark Adams |
| Acts for a New Year - Peace in Fearful Times | Acts 18:9-10 | New Year; Fear; Peace | Mark Adams |
ARTHUR PEAKE
F N PELOUBET
PETER PETT
E A PLUMPTRE
JOSEPH PARKER
PREACHER'S HOMILETICAL
PULPIT COMMENTARY
RICHARD RACKHAM
Cyril Barber - one of the great commentaries on the book of Acts.
D Edmond Hiebert - A thorough (513-page), informative exposition by a conservative Anglican scholar. Full treatment of introductory problems. Has a full index. One of the standard older commentaries on Acts.
Gerald Cowen - Older works which one should obtain if the opportunity arises include R. B. Rackham, The Acts of the Apostles (Baker, 1978; reprint of the 1901 edition). This is considered by many to be a classic on Acts, and was called by W. Smith the greatest of all the commentaries on Acts (in Profitable Bible Study). This work includes an extensive introduction, including articles on the theology of Acts, and a verse by verse commentary. (Commenting on Commentaries on Acts)
ROBERT RAYBURN
REFORMATION STUDY BIBLE
- Acts 18:1
- Acts 18:2
- Acts 18:6
- Acts 18:7
- Acts 18:8
- Acts 18:10
- Acts 18:12
- Acts 18:13
- Acts 18:18
- Acts 18:23
EARNEST REISINGER
AREND REMMERS
RON RITCHIE
A T ROBERTSON
ROB SALVATO
- Acts 18:1-11 I Have Many People in this City
- Acts 18:12-23 Rest and Refreshment
- Acts 18:24-19:7 Have you received the Spirit?
JOHNNY SANDERS
PHILLIP SCHAFF
JOHN SCHULTZ
CHARLES SIMEON
- Acts 18 Sermons
- Acts 18:17 The Character of Gallio
- Acts 18:24-28 Character and Ministry of Apollos
CHUCK SMITH
- Acts 18 Commentary
- Sermon Notes for Acts 18:1
- Sermon Notes for Acts 18:7
- Sermon Notes for Acts 18:9
- Sermon Notes for Acts 18:11
- Sermon Notes for Acts 18:18
- Sermon Notes for Acts 18:24
- Sermon Notes for Acts 18:24-19:7
JAMES SMITH - Handfuls on Purpose - expanded sermon outlines
- Click this page for all the topics below
- PAUL AT CORINTH. Acts 18:1-17
SPEAKER'S COMMENTARY
R C SPROUL - Devotionals
C H SPURGEON
- Acts 18:9, 10 Cheer for the Worker, and Hope for London
- Acts 18:10 A Present Helper
- Acts 18:27 The Shank-bone Sermon; or The True Believers and Their Helpers
- Acts 18:10 - Devotional
RAY STEDMAN
A continuation of the author's exposition of Acts in which he demonstrates from the history of the early church the fallacy of relying solely on man-made programs without making room for the "body life" of believers.- A continuation of the author's exposition of Acts in which he demonstrates from the history of the early church the fallacy of relying solely on man-made programs without making room for the "body life" of believers.
JOHN STEVENSON
RICHARD STRAUSS
JOSEPH SUTCLIFFE
THIRD MILLENNIUM STUDY NOTES
- Kingdom Mission: Paul in Corinth - Acts 18:1-22
- Paul: Third Kingdom Missionary Journey - Acts 18:23-21:14
- Kingdom Mission: Paul in Galatia and Phrygia - Acts 18:23-28
DEREK THOMAS - et al
- Acts 18:1-7 To the End of the Earth (42): Do Not Be Afraid by Derek Thomas
- Acts 18:18-28 To the End of the Earth (43): Priscilla, Aquila, and Apollos by Derek Thomas
DAVID THOMPSON Book of Acts Expositions
TODAY IN WORD
JOHN TRAPP
BOB UTLEY
MARVIN VINCENT
DANIEL WHEDON
STEVE ZEISLER
- Acts 18:1-16 Generations
- Acts 18:1-18 Don't Be Afraid, Keep On Speaking
- Acts 18:9-11, 18-22 Closing the Circle
- Acts 18:18-22 Home
- Acts 18:25-19:22 Start Spreading the News