It is impossible to understand the vitality of the Christian Church in the days of the apostles apart from an awareness of the power of the Holy Spirit in the lives of the apostles. From a fearful beginning before Pentecost, the Church suddenly came alive as the Spirit was poured out on all the believers who had gathered to pray. Professor Guthrie traces the dramatic history of the Church as narrated in the book of Acts, showing how the Holy Spirit gave boldness to witness, wisdom to make decisions, and insight into the truly universal character of the Church as both Jews and Gentiles were given the grace of repentance.
The Church was not free of difficulties and crises. But these, too, were necessary for the growth of Christians in that fellowship known as the Body of Christ. Many of the apostles work in response to weakness and opposition and suffering, and these writings remain as inspired Scripture for the strengthening of the saints of God. Through the centuries the inspired letters to the churches have given both incentive for ethical living on earth and hope for a glorious future when all things will be made new. This book will help one to see the living church of Jesus Christ as the apostles saw it and wrote about it.
The record of their love and labor for the Lord makes this an excellent companion volume to the author's earlier work, Jesus, the Messiah. Says Prof. Guthrie of his new work: 'It is hoped that this book, like its companion volume, will inspire many to a more diligent study of the New Testament itself. For this reason it is arranged in convenient sections to provide a basis, if desired, for daily studies over a period of six months. The relevant New Testament passages are noted in each section.' Thoroughly indexed and cross-referenced, The Apostles provides insight into and application of the New Testament writing.
