In seeking to build up the church, Paul addresses the vulnerability of the church to opposition. As Christians we should rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn. We should not seek to revenge opposition but be kind to those who persecute us.

Paul challenges the idea that there are some good, and some bad, people. He addresses those who judge others and says they are hypocrites. God will not judge people according to what they have done but rather the righteousness that comes by faith.

Following the release of Peter and John, the church spend time in prayer. Their trust in God, their unity in the faith, and their generosity to fellow believers is evidenced. Barnabas, the 'son of encouragement' is introduced.

Ten days after the Ascension, at the Pentecost feast, the promised Holy Spirit is given. Peter preaches to the crowd and three thousand join. This is the birth of the church.

About 120 people who had followed Jesus remained in Jerusalem including the eleven remaining Apostles, Mary the mother of Jesus and Jesus' brothers and other disciples - both men and women. A twelfth Apostle was chosen.

Thomas was absent when Jesus met the other Apostles but Jesus appears here in exactly the same way. Thomas believes. The writer, John, declares his intention is to help people believe.

Jesus appears to a group of disciples including ten Apostles. He proves his physical resurrection body. He explains to them from the Old Testament that what has happened was predicted and begins to commission them.

Darkness comes and the whole atmosphere changes. Through the four statements Jesus makes, we can understand the physical, emotional and relational cost to Jesus and what the cross achieved for us.

In the first three hours of Jesus on the cross he makes three statements showing his concern for others - those within his sight, the criminal and his mother.

The Sanhedrin insists that Pontius Pilate should try Jesus, find him guilty and have him crucified. Pilate cannot find any reason to do this but does so to have an easy life. All involved are 'judged' within a generation of Jesus' death.