acts

Acts is the fifth book of the New Testament and a historical narrative recounting the early Christian church's expansion after Jesus' ascension. Traditionally attributed to Luke the physician, a companion of Paul, Acts follows the Gospel of Luke as a two-volume work. Most scholars date it to the late first century, likely 80–90 CE, though datings vary.

The narrative centers on the Apostles, especially Peter in Jerusalem and the church's leadership, and later on Paul’s missions among Diaspora Jews and Gentiles. Key events include the Pentecost, Peter's speech and miracles, the inclusion of Gentiles through the conversion of Cornelius, and the missionary journeys to Asia Minor and Greece. The book culminates with Paul’s arrest and voyage to Rome.

Acts emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding the church, the restoration of Israel, and the expansion of the gospel beyond Jerusalem. It presents a pattern of mission, persecution, and proclamation, along with debates over church governance, circumcision, and the inclusion of Gentiles, typified by the Council of Jerusalem narrative.

The historical reliability and authorship have been questioned; nonetheless Acts is a primary source for early Christian history and the formation of church structure, liturgical practices, and rapid growth of Christian communities in the first century. It has shaped Christian theology and ecclesiology and remains a central text in biblical studies.