The Bible Douay-Rheims Book 51: Acts

The book begins with Jesus'' final instructions to His disciples before His ascension including the promise of the Holy Spirit. Soon after on the day of Pentecost the Holy Spirit descends upon the Apostles empowering them to speak in different languages and boldly proclaim the Gospel. This marks the birth of the Church and Peter delivers a sermon that leads to the conversion of 3000 people symbolizing the beginning of the Christian mission. The first part of Acts focuses on Peter’s leadership and the establishment of the Church in Jerusalem. It describes the community of believers living in unity sharing possessions and performing miracles. The Apostles face opposition from Jewish authorities leading to persecution but the Church continues to grow. One of the pivotal moments is the conversion of Saul (later known as Paul) a former persecutor of Christians who becomes one of the most zealous apostles spreading the Gospel across the Roman Empire.