From Jerusalem to the Ends of the Earth: Following the Gospel Through Luke, Acts, and Beyond
What began in a manger in Bethlehem did not end with the cross—or even the empty tomb. The Gospel story continues, pulsing through the pages of Luke and Acts and echoing across the world through lives transformed by the Spirit of God. That’s the journey The Acts Series with Gary & Chris invites you into.
In this comprehensive and conversational teaching series, longtime friends and Bible teachers Gary and Chris team up to trace the Gospel from the dusty roads of Galilee to the Roman capital—and beyond. Together, they bring decades of pastoral experience, a love for Scripture, and a touch of humor and historical insight as they walk verse-by-verse through the dramatic, Spirit-filled story of the Church’s birth and expansion.
This isn’t just about early church history—it’s about God’s ongoing work through His people. This series explores the sweeping narrative arc from Luke’s Gospel to Acts, then journeys even further in the follow-up series Is There Life After Acts?—where Gary and Chris explore the legacies of Luke and Paul beyond the pages of the New Testament canon.
Whether you’re a new believer or a seasoned student of Scripture, these teachings will equip you with a deeper understanding of:
- The person and work of the Holy Spirit
- The transition from Israel to the Church Age
- The formation of local churches
- The courage and conviction of the apostles
- The powerful message of salvation through Christ alone
Each episode is designed to be accessible, engaging, and spiritually rich—bringing biblical truth to life for everyday discipleship. This series is a front-row seat to the unstoppable mission of God.
Meet Your Teachers: Gary & Chris
Gary is a seasoned pastor, shepherd, and Bible teacher whose love for the local church and practical application of Scripture shines through in every session. He brings a down-to-earth, relational tone that helps anchor deep truths in real life.
Chris, founder of Shoe Leather Gospel, is a theologian, chaplain, and communicator passionate about connecting the biblical worldview with today’s cultural landscape. With a blend of narrative warmth and doctrinal clarity, Chris helps listeners see the big-picture beauty of God’s unfolding plan.
Together, Gary & Chris offer a unique teaching dynamic—part exposition, part conversation, all centered on Jesus Christ and the truth of God’s Word.
Series Purpose
Why this series? Because the Book of Acts didn’t end. We’re still living it.
The same Holy Spirit that filled Peter at Pentecost and led Paul across the Mediterranean is still at work today—building Christ’s Church, calling disciples, and sending witnesses into the world. This series helps believers trace the unstoppable movement of the gospel and discover their place in God’s redemptive plan.
Whether you’re a new believer, a seasoned teacher, or a curious seeker, this series is for those who want to understand not just what happened in the early church, but why it matters now.
Series Overview & Teaching Outline
The Gospel of Luke with Gary & Chris
Jesus, the Son of Man—God in flesh, Savior of the world.
- Introduction to Luke: the historian, the physician, the storyteller
- Jesus’ birth, ministry, miracles, and message
- Encounters with outcasts, women, sinners, and skeptics
- The journey to Jerusalem: Passion, crucifixion, and resurrection
- Preparing the disciples for the Spirit’s arrival
Purpose: To understand the person and mission of Jesus as the foundation for the church’s mission in Acts.
The Book of Acts with Gary & Chris
The Church on Mission—Empowered by the Spirit, sent to the world
- Acts 1–7: Jerusalem Witness | Pentecost, persecution, and the early church
- Acts 8–12: Judea & Samaria | Philip, Peter, and unexpected conversions
- Acts 13–21: The Ends of the Earth | Paul’s missionary journeys
- Acts 22–28: Paul’s defense, imprisonment, and Rome-bound witness
Purpose: To trace the explosive spread of the gospel and the formation of the early church—highlighting God’s sovereignty, Spirit-empowerment, and gospel-centered courage.
Is There Life After Acts? For Luke
What became of the faithful historian who walked with Paul?
- Luke’s unique role in the New Testament
- Clues to his life after Acts 28
- Luke’s theological influence and legacy in Church history
- The ministry of quiet, faithful service
Purpose: To reflect on the enduring role of Luke and how faithful presence—though often unsung—shapes the Church across generations.
Is There Life After Acts? For Paul
Theme: Finishing the race. What do we know about Paul’s final years?
URL: https://www.chrisreighley.com/teaching-series/is-there-life-after-acts-for-paul/
- Paul’s house arrest and bold witness in Rome
- Clues from the Pastoral Epistles (1 & 2 Timothy, Titus)
- Historical and church tradition insights
- Paul’s death and enduring legacy
Purpose: To examine how Paul’s life finished strong, faithful, and fruitful—even amid hardship. A model of perseverance for the modern believer.
What You’ll Experience
- Conversational, relational Bible teaching
- Deep exposition with real-life application
- Cultural and historical insights
- Humorous and heartwarming storytelling
- A sense of journey—from the manger to the mission field
Bonus Teaching Series from Gary & Chris
The Christmas Story with Gary & Chris
Experience the wonder of Christ’s birth like never before. In The Christmas Story with Gary & Chris, journey through the nativity with fresh eyes and a faith-filled heart. This 3-part video teaching series explores the road to Bethlehem, the birth of Jesus, and the glory revealed at the manger—blending biblical depth, pastoral warmth, and storytelling wonder.