- 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) Tabernacles
C) Passover
D) Hanukkah
- 2. What was the reaction of the crowd when the apostles spoke in tongues?
A) They were indifferent
B) They were amazed and perplexed
C) They wanted to arrest them
D) They began to mock them
- 3. Who was the first Christian martyr mentioned in the Acts?
A) James
B) John
C) Peter
D) Stephen
- 4. What was the main charge against Stephen?
A) Speaking against the Temple and the Law
B) Stealing money
C) Leading a rebellion
D) Denying Christ
- 5. How many apostles originally followed Jesus?
A) Seventy
B) Twelve
C) Ten
D) Five
- 6. Which apostle was known for his denial of Jesus?
A) John
B) Peter
C) James
D) Judas
- 7. What did the apostles do to choose a replacement for Judas Iscariot?
A) Prayed and cast lots
B) Chose randomly
C) Held a debate
D) Waited for a vision
- 8. What did Peter proclaim to the people after healing the lame man?
A) Repent, and turn to God
B) Follow me
C) Join us
D) Believe in Moses
- 9. What shared practice marked the early Christian community?
A) Individual ownership
B) Hierarchy in leadership
C) Communal sharing of possessions
D) Exclusive gatherings
- 10. What was the primary message the apostles preached?
A) Legalism
B) Resurrection of Jesus
C) Prophecy about the future
D) Moral teachings
- 11. Who helped to spread the gospel in Samaria?
A) Barnabas
B) Philip
C) Matthew
D) Stephen
- 12. What did the apostles pray for in times of persecution?
A) Wealth
B) Protection from harm
C) Boldness to speak
D) Fame
- 13. What role does the Holy Spirit play in the early church according to Acts?
A) Empowering believers
B) Establishing temples
C) Creating laws
D) Judging the unsaved
- 14. Who was recognized for his generosity amongst the apostles?
A) Barnabas
B) Simeon
C) Thomas
D) Philip
- 15. What characterized the teachings of the apostles to the early Christians?
A) The teaching of the apostles
B) Greek mythology
C) Philosophy
D) Traditions of the elders
- 16. In Acts, how did the believers resolve disputes?
A) By leaving the community
B) Through voting
C) They directed disputes to the apostles
D) Through public debates
- 17. How many people were baptized after Peter's sermon at Pentecost?
A) About 500
B) About 1,000
C) About 3,000
D) About 10,000
- 18. Which disciple was chosen to replace Judas Iscariot?
A) James
B) Matthias
C) Silas
D) Barnabas
- 19. Who was present at Stephen's stoning, approving of his execution?
A) Peter
B) James
C) Saul (Paul)
D) Matthew
- 20. Who was the first Gentile convert recorded in Acts?
A) Lydia
B) Eunuch
C) Cornelius
D) Philip
- 21. Who is the primary author of the Book of Acts?
A) Matthew
B) Luke
C) John
D) Mark
- 22. Who helped the apostles perform miracles in Acts?
A) The Holy Spirit
B) Philosophers
C) Their own power
D) Local priests
- 23. What did the Jerusalem church emphasize in its community life?
A) Gathering wealth
B) Competing with other sects
C) Breaking bread together
D) Building large temples
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