There is no more thrilling part of the Bible than the book of Acts, and no better guide to it than Albert Mohler. This first volume takes in the ascension of Jesus, the coming of the Spirit, the birth of the church, the start of persecution, the conversion of Saul, and the divine call to world-wide evangelism.
If you want to be fueled for Christian life and mission, you will want to read this book.
This Expository Guide takes you verse by verse through the text in an accessible and applied way. It is less academic than a traditional commentary and can be read cover-to-cover, used in personal devotions, used to lead small group studies, or used for sermon preparation.
Dr. R. Albert Mohler Jr. serves as president of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary - the flagship school of the Southern Baptist Convention and one of the largest seminaries in the world.
Dr. Mohler has been recognized by such influential publications as Time and Christianity Today as a leader among American evangelicals. In fact, Time.com called him the “reigning intellectual of the evangelical movement in the U.S.”
In addition to his presidential duties, Dr. Mohler hosts two programs: “The Briefing,” a daily analysis of news and events from a Christian worldview; and “Thinking in Public,” a series of conversations with the day’s leading thinkers. He also writes a popular blog and a regular commentary on moral, cultural and theological issues. All of these can be accessed through Dr. Mohler’s website, www.AlbertMohler.com. Called “an articulate voice for conservative Christianity at large” by The Chicago Tribune, Dr. Mohler’s mission is to address contemporary issues from a consistent and explicit Christian worldview.
As I am writing this, the state of California is on mandatory social distancing due to COVID-19. Many churches have to close their campus and meet online. In many ways, I am reminded of the early church in Acts. In Acts 1-12 For You, Albert Mohler shows us the fulfillment of the new covenant, the person and work of Jesus Christ, and the people of God - the church.
God’s Word For You
God’s Word For You is a series of books by The Good Book Company that seeks to take you to the heart of a book of the Bible and apply its truth to your heart. They attempt to be Bible-centered, Christ-glorifying, relevantly applied, and easily readable. I found this to be especially true of Acts 1-12 For You.
This volume was written by Dr. Albert Mohler. He is the President of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, a council member of The Gospel Coalition, and a prolific author. These roles make him the perfect fit as the author of this book, since he champions the spread of the Gospel throughout all of the world.
Guide
In less than 200 pages, Mohler gives us a guided tour of the book of Acts. We are given a promise and mission from Jesus, we experience the day of Pentecost, and we see the spiritual transformation of Saul.
As is fitting for our current situation, I was reminded of the early church and their priorities of teaching, fellowship, the breaking of bread, and prayer. I was encouraged by the life of Paul who exalted Christ in his sufferings.
Resource
What I appreciate most about this book series is the number of resources it has to offer. While it acts as a commentary, it can also be read as a devotional. Each section concludes with questions for reflection. These are usually personal application questions that are perfect for a small group study or Sunday School class.
There is a glossary at the back of the book with words that are specifically related to the book of Acts. These terms include Baptism, Canon, Deacons, and redemptive history.
Passion
Although the times have changed, we have the same mission and purpose of the early church. We are to look at Paul’s example and have have his same passion. There is no better time to remember and reflect on Christ’s lordship over his church - and there is no better time to anticipate his coming again.
I received a media copy of Acts 1-12 For You, and this is my honest review.
I've been really enjoying reading through and studying the book of Acts. I find the transformation of the disciples after the coming of the Holy Spirit so powerful - these men who were confused and hot headed become these bold, unswerving witnesses of Christ to the ends of the earth. It really made me stop and consider how I relate to the Holy Spirit in my own life.
Seeing the gradual shift from a Jews only mentality to the gospel invading Gentile territory is also powerful, particularly as you read about Peter vision.
Looking forward to continuing with part 2: chapters 13-28🎉
Really enjoyed this walkthrough of Acts it’s easy to access, thought provoking and full of useful contextual information. I used it in conjunction with another guide but found the questions and explanations in this book really helpful. About to order the second part it was so good!!
Good commentary. Very helpful in pointing out connections that I wouldn't have noticed. Not sure that I am in agreement with what is emphasized, but I liked it well enough that I will begin part 2 soon.
This book is overall very good. My only criticism is that at points he allows his personal philosophy of church to insert itself into what he sees in Acts.
I really enjoyed reading this look at the first twelve chapters of Acts. It provided some useful connections both to other books of the bible and to history.
4.5 - This series of commentaries is great for personal use or small group Bible studies. We just finished working through it with our men's group. Mohler is solid and clear.