Acts

Welwyn Commentary #44

by Gordon J. Keddie

Christians have always found the book of Acts to be enjoyable, exciting and encouraging. Here we find our own 'roots' as the followers of Jesus and learn what it means to be citizens of heaven while living upon the earth. If the Gospels tell us what the gospel is, Acts tells us what the gospel does. The author keeps the exposition readable and practical drawing us to lift our hearts to Jesus, our Saviour and King. Acts is first and foremost the history of the work of the Holy Spirit in the church. It brings together two great promises of 'another Counsellor', who would lead the disciples into all truth and the Great Commission to preach the gospel to the whole world in the assurance that he would be with them always, 'to the very end of the age'. Acts is also the record of costly campaigning against a fiercely resistant enemy, over the eternal destiny of lost men and women. The sounds of battle echo from almost every scene. But so also does the scent of victory, as lives are changed and the light of Christ spreads from nation to nation! As the book of Acts closes, the work still goes on. The fulfilment of Christ's commission continues today as his followers take up the unfinished 'You will be my witnesses ...to the ends of the earth.'

352 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 1994

About the author

Gordon J. Keddie is the minister of Grace Presbyterian Church in State College, Pennsylvania. He is the author of numerous titles including He spoke in parables and seven other Welwyn Commentaries published by EP Books.

Reviews

[Eilidh]

At times this book feels unnecessarily negative. Every question the Jews have about how to respond to the Gentile converts is presented as prejudice, and the joy with which news of their conversion was met is often brushed over. Each positive example of the early church is contrasted with the author's worst experiences of 'the modern church' rather than being used as an encouragement towards greater holiness.

As with any Welwyn commentary, the author has an axe to grind. In this case, his understanding of the proper running of the church, including its leadership. However, when focussing on the text, You are My Witnesses is an accessible commentary on the book of Acts.