Teaching About Jesus & the Gospel The Book of Acts
Old Testament Prophecy New Testament Fulfilled Ps 16:8-11 Resurrection Prophecy Acts 2:25-28 Peter’s Sermon Isa 53:7-8 Suffering Servant Acts 8:32-33 Philip’s Teaching Ps 110:1 Messiah Exalted Acts 2:34-35 Peter’s Sermon Isa 55:3 Everlasting Covenant Acts 13:34 Paul’s Teaching Deut 18:15 Prophet Like Moses Acts 3:22-23 Peter’s Sermon Ps 118:22 Rejected Stone Acts 4:11 Cornerstone Isa 61:1-2 Good News to the Poor Luke 4:18-19 Jesus’ Ministry

The Gospel’s Roots: From Prophecy to Proclamation

The gospel didn’t start in Acts—it was centuries in the making. The verse connections on this page show how the apostles’ teaching about Jesus is rooted in Old Testament prophecy, proving that the gospel is God’s plan of redemption from the beginning. These aren’t just random links; they’re the backbone of the apostles’ message.

Prophecy Meets Reality

Take Isaiah 53:5, which speaks of a servant “pierced for our transgressions.” In Acts 2:23, Peter boldly declares that Jesus was “delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God.” Or consider Psalm 16:10, promising that God’s Holy One won’t see decay—Peter applies this directly to Jesus’ resurrection in Acts 2:31. These connections weren’t just for show; they gave the gospel credibility, especially to Jewish listeners who knew the Scriptures.

The Gospel’s Foundation

But it’s not just about proof—it’s about promise. The gospel is the fulfillment of God’s covenant with Abraham, David, and the prophets. In Acts 3:25-26, Peter reminds his audience that they are heirs of the promises made to Abraham, now fulfilled in Jesus. This isn’t just theology; it’s an invitation to step into God’s unfolding story.

Your Invitation

As you explore these connections, remember: the gospel’s roots run deep, and its power is timeless. The same message that transformed lives in Acts is still at work today. Let these verses inspire you to see the gospel not just as a story, but as God’s promise fulfilled—and a truth worth sharing.

Teaching About Jesus & the Gospel in Acts

The Book of Acts is a story of action—missionary journeys, miracles, and church growth—but at its core, it’s a story of a message. That message is the gospel: the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The apostles didn’t just travel; they taught. They didn’t just perform signs; they proclaimed. Their teaching about Jesus and the gospel is the heartbeat of Acts, and it’s what fueled the early church’s explosive growth. Let’s dive into how this theme shapes the narrative of Acts and why it still matters today.

The Message of Acts

From the first sermon at Pentecost, the apostles made one thing clear: Jesus is the promised Messiah. Peter’s words in Acts 2:22-36 are a masterclass in gospel proclamation—he highlights Jesus’ miracles, His unjust death, and His victorious resurrection, all foretold in Scripture. This wasn’t just a history lesson; it was a call to repentance and faith, leading to 3,000 conversions (Acts 2:41). Throughout Acts, this message echoes in synagogues, marketplaces, and prisons. Whether it’s Paul in Athens or Philip with the Ethiopian eunuch, the focus is always on Jesus. For us, it’s a reminder that the gospel is the power of God for salvation (Romans 1:16), a truth we’re called to share.

Jesus as the Fulfillment

The apostles anchored their message in the Old Testament, showing Jesus fulfilled centuries of prophecy. Peter quotes Psalm 16 to prove Jesus’ resurrection (Acts 2:25-28), and Paul connects Jesus to David’s promises (Acts 13:32-37). This wasn’t theological trivia; it was proof that Jesus is the long-awaited Savior. For the Jewish audience, this linked the gospel to their Scriptures. For us, it deepens our trust in the Bible’s unity and inspires confidence in sharing Christ’s story.

Jesus’ Ministry: The Gospel’s Foundation

Before Acts, Jesus laid the gospel’s groundwork through His life. In Luke 4:18-19, He read Isaiah 61:1-2, declaring, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me… to preach the gospel to the poor,” and said this was fulfilled in Him. His miracles—giving sight to the blind (Luke 18:35-43), healing the lame (Luke 7:22)—showed God’s love, fulfilling Isaiah 35:5-6. Jesus taught in parables, like the lost sheep (Luke 15:3-7), revealing God’s kingdom, as Psalm 78:2 predicted (Matthew 13:34-35). Recognized as a prophet like Moses (Deuteronomy 18:15, Luke 7:16), He challenged religious leaders with mercy over rules (Luke 15:1-2). His life was the message the apostles preached, giving Acts its power.

The Gospel’s Transformative Power

The gospel’s power shines in changed lives. Lydia, a businesswoman, opened her heart to Paul’s message, and her home became a church hub (Acts 16:14-15). The Philippian jailer, moments from despair, believed after Paul’s words, “Believe in the Lord Jesus” (Acts 16:25-34). These stories show the gospel meets people where they are—quietly or dramatically—transforming hearts. It’s not just history; it’s proof the gospel still changes lives today. As we study Acts, we’re invited to know, live, and share this truth, letting Jesus’ message work through us.

A Call for Today

The theme of Teaching About Jesus & the Gospel is Acts’ foundation. It’s the message that launched the church, anchored in Scripture, and transformed the world. Let it inspire you to proclaim Christ’s love today.