- 1. The Early Christian Community in Jerusalem, as described in Acts 1-7, was a vibrant and dynamic group of believers who emerged in the wake of Jesus' resurrection and ascension. Characterized by a profound sense of unity and purpose, this community was marked by shared beliefs, communal living, and a commitment to spreading the teachings of Christ. Following the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, the apostles began to preach boldly about Jesus, leading to the conversion of thousands who were baptized and joined the community. They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayers, practicing their faith with great joy and sincerity. These early Christians met regularly in the temple and in homes, sharing meals and resources, emphasizing the importance of caring for one another, particularly the needy among them. Miraculous signs and wonders performed by the apostles not only affirmed their message but also attracted the attention of both believers and skeptics alike. However, this growing popularity led to tensions and conflicts with the religious authorities, who felt threatened by the rapid spread of this new faith. The arrest and subsequent bold testimony of figures like Peter and John highlighted the challenges faced by the community, yet their resolve to proclaim the Gospel remained unwavering. The story of Stephen, one of the first deacons, illustrates both the fruitfulness and the perils of their mission, culminating in his martyrdom, which ignited a wave of persecution. Despite this, the early Christians responded not with despair but with resilience, scattering to different regions while continuing to share the message of Jesus, thereby laying the foundation for the global expansion of Christianity.
During which Jewish festival did the Holy Spirit come upon the apostles?
A) Pentecost
B) Hanukkah
C) Passover
D) Tabernacles
- 2. What was the reaction of the crowd when the apostles spoke in tongues?
A) They were amazed and perplexed
B) They wanted to arrest them
C) They began to mock them
D) They were indifferent
- 3. Who was the first Christian martyr mentioned in the Acts?
A) John
B) Peter
C) Stephen
D) James
- 4. What was the main charge against Stephen?
A) Leading a rebellion
B) Denying Christ
C) Stealing money
D) Speaking against the Temple and the Law
- 5. How many apostles originally followed Jesus?
A) Ten
B) Twelve
C) Five
D) Seventy
- 6. Which apostle was known for his denial of Jesus?
A) Judas
B) John
C) James
D) Peter
- 7. What did the apostles do to choose a replacement for Judas Iscariot?
A) Held a debate
B) Waited for a vision
C) Chose randomly
D) Prayed and cast lots
- 8. What did Peter proclaim to the people after healing the lame man?
A) Join us
B) Follow me
C) Repent, and turn to God
D) Believe in Moses
- 9. What shared practice marked the early Christian community?
A) Hierarchy in leadership
B) Individual ownership
C) Communal sharing of possessions
D) Exclusive gatherings
- 10. Who is the primary author of the Book of Acts?
A) Matthew
B) Mark
C) Luke
D) John
- 11. What role does the Holy Spirit play in the early church according to Acts?
A) Judging the unsaved
B) Creating laws
C) Empowering believers
D) Establishing temples
- 12. What did the Jerusalem church emphasize in its community life?
A) Gathering wealth
B) Building large temples
C) Competing with other sects
D) Breaking bread together
- 13. Who helped the apostles perform miracles in Acts?
A) Their own power
B) Local priests
C) Philosophers
D) The Holy Spirit
- 14. Who helped to spread the gospel in Samaria?
A) Barnabas
B) Stephen
C) Matthew
D) Philip
- 15. What did the apostles pray for in times of persecution?
A) Boldness to speak
B) Protection from harm
C) Fame
D) Wealth
- 16. In Acts, how did the believers resolve disputes?
A) By leaving the community
B) They directed disputes to the apostles
C) Through voting
D) Through public debates
- 17. Who was the first Gentile convert recorded in Acts?
A) Eunuch
B) Lydia
C) Philip
D) Cornelius
- 18. Who was present at Stephen's stoning, approving of his execution?
A) Peter
B) Matthew
C) Saul (Paul)
D) James
- 19. Who was recognized for his generosity amongst the apostles?
A) Simeon
B) Thomas
C) Philip
D) Barnabas
- 20. How many people were baptized after Peter's sermon at Pentecost?
A) About 1,000
B) About 3,000
C) About 10,000
D) About 500
- 21. What characterized the teachings of the apostles to the early Christians?
A) Traditions of the elders
B) Philosophy
C) The teaching of the apostles
D) Greek mythology
- 22. Which disciple was chosen to replace Judas Iscariot?
A) Matthias
B) Silas
C) James
D) Barnabas
- 23. What was the primary message the apostles preached?
A) Resurrection of Jesus
B) Legalism
C) Moral teachings
D) Prophecy about the future
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