Two words stand out for the growth of the church: increase (auxano) and multiply (plethyno) . . . [Acts 6:7; 12:24; 19:29]. We see these two words, increase and multiply, in the LXX creation account where God says to the human race: “Be fruitful [auxanesthe] and multiply [plethynesthe]” (Gen. 1:28 ESV). The creation mandate is being fulfilled in a distinctive manner in the gospel. Human beings were created to rule the world for God, and the rule over the world is restored through the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Thomas R. Schreiner, Handbook on Acts and Paul’s Letters, 5-6.