Special Sub-Topic: Acts of the Apostles Click Here To Play: Acts of the Apostles

Whom does the Book of Acts record as preaching the first Gospel sermon?

Peter. Peter, one of the Apostles, preached the first sermon. Since this was preached after Jesus ascended back into heaven, this sermon is noted as the sermon that launched the Christian faith. You can read about this in second chapter of Acts.

Who was the first recorded Gentile who became a Christian?

Cornelius. The conversion of Cornelius is recorded to show that this is in God's plan to redeem ALL mankind. Acts says that God's plan to save mankind was always meant for all human beings. After all, Genesis says we were all created in his image and we are ALL descendants of Adam and Eve. Please see the tenth chapter of Acts for this exciting story.

Who was the first person who died as a direct result of being a Christian?

Stephen. Stephen became the first (recorded) person to die because of his belief in Jesus. Ironically, he died at the hands of others who believed strongly in God as well. Chapters 6 (latter 1/2) and 7 gives an account of this.

Who gave "hearty" approval to the stoning of Stephen?

Saul. Saul (later renamed Paul) was a devout believer in Judaism. He was out to get and "punish" as many of these Christians as he could. Though he had a strong belief in God, he didn't believe that Jesus was the one God chose to bring salvation to His creation.

What happened to Saul?

He ultimately became a Christian.. Saul, through some interesting experiences, became a Christian. He would later wind up writing a good deal of the New Testament. Saul would also suffer a great deal due to his conversion, but he kept his perspective and rejoiced in God throughout. Acts Chapter 9 discusses Saul's conversion.

Paul originally had a different name, which many believe was given him by God. What was it?

Saul. According to the Acts, Chapter 13, Paul was also called Saul. That is about all we are told here. He would be referred to as Paul throughout the rest of the New Testament.

One of the times that Paul was in prison, its doors were opened. What natural occurrence caused this?

Earthquake. The one in charge of guarding this prison, thinking Paul had escaped, was about to kill himself. Instead, the guard became a Christian thanks to Paul telling him of the Gospel. (Acts Chapter 16)

During Paul's trials, he had a chance to preach to several high government officials. To whom did Paul finally have to appeal his case?

Caesar. With Paul appealing his case to Caesar, he was able to share his Christian belief "all the way to the top" of the Roman government. He was able to speak before such officials as Felix, Festus, and Agrippa. Now God is placing him before Caesar. See Acts chapter 24 through 26 for this account.

What was the name of the high Jewish Court?

Sanhedrin. Throughout the Book of Acts, this court is referred to as the Sanhedrin.

Where were the believers in Christ first called "Christians"?

Antioch. Acts Chapter 11 indicates that believers were called "Christians" first at Antioch.