What is the meaning of Acts 1:1?

In my first book,

Luke is reminding his reader that Acts is a sequel to the Gospel that bears his name.

• Luke 1:1-4 shows the same careful research and orderly account, underscoring the trustworthiness of both volumes.

• By referencing a “first” book, he affirms continuity—what God started in the life of Christ continues through the Church (cf. Luke 24:44-49; Acts 1:8).

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O Theophilus,

Luke addresses the same individual as in Luke 1:3, probably a real person of some prominence.

• The name means “lover of God,” reminding every reader that God’s Word is personally addressed to those who love Him (John 14:21).

• Luke’s respectful greeting reinforces the historical reality of the narrative (2 Peter 1:16).

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I wrote about

Luke’s purpose statement: he recorded specific, verifiable events, not myths.

• The Gospel of Luke details eyewitness accounts (Luke 1:2), emphasizing factual history (John 19:35).

• Scripture’s literal accuracy is underscored—what was written happened just as recorded (Luke 24:27).

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all that Jesus

The focus is wholly on Christ—His person and work.

• Colossians 1:18 declares Jesus “preeminent in everything,” matching Luke’s emphasis.

• Hebrews 12:2 calls believers to fix eyes on Jesus, echoing Luke’s intent to center the narrative on Him.

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began to do

Acts records what Jesus started and now continues through the Spirit-empowered Church.

• John 14:12: “Whoever believes in Me will also do the works that I am doing.”

• Philippians 1:6 assures that He who began a good work will carry it to completion.

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and to teach

Jesus’ ministry united deeds and doctrine; Acts shows the apostles imitating that pattern.

• Matthew 4:23 notes Jesus “teaching…proclaiming…healing,” a balance mirrored in Acts 2:42-47.

• 2 Timothy 2:2 urges passing on sound teaching, fulfilling the ongoing mission Jesus launched.

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summary

Acts 1:1 opens the book by linking it inseparably to Luke’s Gospel, assuring us of historical reliability, personal relevance, and Christ-centered continuity. Luke addresses Theophilus—and by extension every God-lover—to underline that the same Jesus who acted and taught in the Gospels continues His work and Word through His Spirit-filled people today.