How does Acts 13:32 connect with the resurrection of Jesus Christ? Setting the Scene • In the synagogue at Pisidian Antioch, Paul reviews Israel’s history and then declares, “And now we proclaim to you the good news: What God promised to our fathers” (Acts 13:32). • Verse 32 is a hinge: it turns the congregation’s attention from past promises to the present, living proof that God keeps every word. Naming the Promise • God’s ancient covenant with the patriarchs included: – A coming Deliverer (Genesis 12:3; 22:18). – An eternal throne for David’s line (2 Samuel 7:12-16). • For centuries Israel waited for these assurances to move from parchment to reality. Promise Fulfilled: The Resurrection • Paul’s very next words link the promise directly to Easter morning: “He has fulfilled for us, their children, by raising up Jesus” (Acts 13:33). • The resurrection is God’s stamp of completion on every Messianic pledge. • Without a literal, bodily resurrection, the promise would remain incomplete, and the “good news” of v. 32 would collapse (1 Corinthians 15:14-17). Old Testament Echoes Confirmed • Psalm 2:7—quoted in Acts 13:33—names the Messiah as God’s Son; the resurrection publicly validates that Sonship. • Isaiah 55:3—invoked in Acts 13:34—speaks of “the holy and sure blessings of David”; Christ rising immortal proves those blessings are everlasting. • Psalm 16:10—cited in Acts 13:35—states, “You will not abandon my soul to Sheol, nor will You let Your Holy One see decay.” Jesus’ empty tomb is the literal fulfillment. • Earlier preaching follows the same pattern: Acts 2:32; 3:15; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 all connect Scripture, promise, and resurrection. Practical Implications for Believers Today • Assurance: Because God kept His greatest promise, He will keep every lesser one (Romans 8:32). • Salvation: The risen Christ offers “forgiveness of sins” and justification to all who believe (Acts 13:38-39). • Hope: Resurrection power guarantees our future bodily resurrection and eternal inheritance (1 Peter 1:3-5). • Mission: The same “good news” Paul announced in Acts 13:32 is ours to proclaim until Christ returns (Matthew 28:6-7, 18-20). |
    |