PPG view of the Book of Acts.

The primitive Pentecostal view of the book of Acts is rooted in a fundamental belief that the New Testament church was empowered by the Holy Spirit with special gifts defined by scripture. The book of Acts outlines the Pentecostal mission to carry the gospel to the world, to teach and live out the teachings of Jesus, and to glorify God.

The book of Acts begins with Jesus’ ascension into heaven, where he promises the descent of the Holy Spirit to empower the early church. After Jesus’ ascension, the disciples wait in Jerusalem for the Holy Spirit to appear, just as Jesus said (Acts 1:4-5). This narrative found in Acts is key for Pentecostals, as it emphasizes the second coming of the Holy Spirit and the gift of power and authority for ministry.

Next, Pentecostals find comfort in the narrative of Acts 2 when the Holy Spirit does descend upon the early church with “tongues, as of fire” (Acts 2:3). This episode of the Descent of the Holy Spirit marks the actions of God that empowered the first disciples to preach the gospel to all nations (Acts 1:8). The Pentecostal movement considers this event to be the fulfillment of Jesus’ promise to bestow the Holy Spirit on the church to empower believers with supernatural gifts, including miraculous healing and speaking in tongues (Acts 2:4, Acts 10:44-46).

Furthermore, Pentecostals are encouraged by various accounts in Acts of the early church proclaiming the love and power of Jesus. Many passages detail accounts of the Apostles courageously preaching the gospel in hostile environments, despite persecution and opposition (Acts 4:23-31; Acts 5:17-42). Strangely, these accounts remind modern Pentecostals to remain obedient to the will of God to share the gospel, even in the face of persecution.

Lastly, Pentecostals may find encouragement in the book of Acts in understanding their mission from God. In Acts 8:26-40, Philip confronts a man from Ethiopia and shares the gospel with him. Pentecostals often look to this passage for guidance in understanding their mission to spread the Word of God and for motivation when facing stiff opposition.

In conclusion, the primitive Pentecostal view of the book of Acts is based on a fundamental belief that the church was indwelt with the Holy Spirit to empower the believers to carry out their great mission. In the book of Acts, Pentecostals receive assurance with the promise of the Holy Spirit, the power to preach the gospel, and examples of how to carry out their mission. From these examples, Pentecostals can remain committed to their mission, no matter how hard the mission seems.