o It is selective, focusing primarily on two leaders (Peter and
Paul), on the westward rather than eastward expansion, and on
cities rather than rural areas.o It does not have good sources in some instances. The first
eight chapters concerning the founding of the community
in Jerusalem contain little actual fact; as a good Hellenistic
historian, Luke fills the lacunae with impressive speeches
and summaries.o It has definite biases. Acts emphasizes unity among Christian
leaders, for example, as well as continuity between Israel and
the church.o As an apologetic narrative that covers more than 30 years
in 28 chapters (many of them consisting of speeches), Acts
necessarily smoothes over a much rougher course of events.• Supported by other early writings (such as the letters of Paul),
Acts is a reliable source for certain aspects of Christianity’s
first expansion.
o The expansion was amazingly rapid, its speed matched only
by the spread of Islam, which had the advantage of arms and
diplomacy. Within 10 years of the death of Jesus, there were
Christian communities throughout Palestine and Syria; in 20
years, across Asia Minor and into Greece; and in 25 years,
in Rome.
o It spread through preaching in public but even more
through personal contacts, such as the conversion of
households and those Gentiles (called God-fearers) who
frequented synagogues.o The expansion of Christianity was carried out in conditions
of duress. The movement spread not necessarily because
people accepted it but at least in part because of harassment