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Addressed to a certain Theophilus, about whom nothing is really known (Acts 1:1), the Book of Acts records the early history of the establishment of groups of Christian believers. Beginning with the ascension of Jesus to heaven, the book goes on to
trace the growth of Christianity in Palestine and its spread to Syria, Asia Minor, Greece, and eventually to Rome. The leading figure in the first chapters is Peter, who delivered the stirring sermon on the day of
Pentecost (Acts 2). The greater part of the book, however, is devoted to the experiences of
Paul and his companions during their missionary journeys across the Middle East and parts of Europe. On this basis, the book of Acts provides a useful context and background for study of the letters written by the
apostle Paul.
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