Luke begins his second volume by referring back to his “former book” (1:1), that is, the Gospel of Luke, which contains the words and deeds of Jesus. This link is important because the development of the church builds on the life and work of Jesus. In the Gospel, the disciples failed to understand and appreciate the mission and identity of Jesus. In the beginning of this second volume, Luke emphasizes that the apostles are now fully equipped to continue the earthly ministries of Jesus. First, Luke mentions that Jesus gave instructions “through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen” (1:2). Affirming the unique status of these apostles, the work of the Holy Spirit also guarantees the ability of these apostles to proclaim faithfully the gospel of Jesus. Second, with “many convincing …