The book of Acts is a story of transition: it begins by showing us how the church came into existence, and at the end we see the final official rejection of Christianity by the Jews of the Diaspora in Rome. The story revolves around the personalities and ministries of three men - Simon, Stephen, and Saul. Simon Peter was the apostle to the Jews, and Saul (later known as Paul) was the renowned apostle to the Gentiles. Stephen provides the link between the two.

A study in contrasts, Peter was a Palestinian Jew, Paul a Hellenist Jew. Peter was what the world would call unlearned, Paul was a scholar, a genius, a trained rabbi, an educated Pharisee, and a Roman citizen. Peter was a personal disciple of Jesus, Paul was "born out of due time". One cannot study Acts without becoming aware that Luke is always balancing Paul with Peter, dividing their recorded addresses and miracles equally.

This commentary is designed to provide a usable outline and to bring to life the interesting people who crowd the pages of Acts.

The John Phillips Commentary Series is designed to provide pastors, Sunday school teachers, and students of the Scripture with doctrinally sound interpretation that emphasizes the practical application of Bible truth. Working from the familiar King James Version, Dr. Phillips not only provides helpful commentary on the text, but also includes detailed outlines and numerous illustrations and quotations. Anyone wanting to explore the meaning of God's Word in greater depth - for personal spiritual growth or as a resource for preaching and teaching - will welcome the guidance and insights of this respected series.

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John Phillips (1927-2010) served as assistant director of the Moody Correspondence School as well as director of the Emmaus Correspondence School, one of the world's largest Bible correspondence ministries. He also taught in the Moody Evening School and on the Moody Broadcasting radio network.