In Acts, the Holy Spirit is constantly seen breaking down geographical and ethnic barriers that would otherwise hinder the expansion of the Kingdom. By the end of Acts, the message of the gospel has spread from east to west, without respect to nationality, geography, or language. Further, in the record of Acts, we detect an emphasis that is also prominent in the Gospel of Luke: the author is quick to point out the inclusion of otherwise marginalized segments of Jewish society. Acts records the gospel transforming the lives of Samaritans, Gentiles, women, and young people. In this way, Luke’s message is the same as Paul’s: the ordo salutis (the way of salvation) is the same for all people. Jews, Gentiles, and Samaritans, men, women, and children must all be reconciled to God by faith in Christ (Acts 11:17–18; Romans 10:10–13; Galatians 3:26–29; Revelation 5:9; 7:9; 14:6).
One might legitimately ask why Luke feels constrained to repeat this commonly accepted teaching of the Christian faith. However, the modern reader must be constantly reminded that we cannot read Scripture in light of today’s context. A more appropriate approach is to view today’s context in light of Scripture.