Acts is the sequel to Luke's gospel and tells the story of Jesus's followers during the 30 years after his death. It describes how the 12 apostles, formerly Jesus's disciples, spread the message of Christianity throughout the Mediterranean against a background of persecution. With an introduction by P.D. James

Bible study notes and commentary on the Old Testament book of Genesis. Emphasizes understanding the text with practical applications. Intended to be helpful to all Christians, including teachers and preachers, while avoiding an emphasis on technical issues. Written from the perspective of faith in the Bible as the absolute, inerrant, verbally inspired word of God. Comments include discussion of these topics: * Are Bible accounts of creation and the flood literal history? * Can organic or theistic evolution be harmonized with Scripture? * Are the days of Genesis 1 literal or symbols of long ages? * Were Adam and Eve the first man and woman? * How did sin and death enter the world? * Was Noah's flood worldwide or local? * What promises did God make to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob about the nation of Israel? * How did Joseph interpret Pharaoh's dreams and save his family in Egypt?

A senior New Testament scholar and teacher helps students understand the historical, literary, and theological issues of the book of Acts and introduces key concepts in the field of narrative criticism. This volume captures the message of the book of Acts by taking seriously the book's essential character as a powerful story through which Luke communicates profound theological truth. While giving attention to historical background, its purpose is to lead readers through a close reading that yields fresh insights into passages throughout Acts.