How does Acts 1:22 define the role of an apostolic witness to Jesus? Context matters Acts 1 opens with the apostles gathered in Jerusalem after the ascension, waiting for the promised Spirit. Judas is gone, and Peter explains they must appoint another apostle. The criteria are laid out in Acts 1:21-22. Key text: Acts 1:22 “beginning with John’s baptism and the day Jesus was taken up from us. For one of these must become a witness with us of His resurrection.” What an apostolic witness is, according to Acts 1:22 • Was there “beginning with John’s baptism” – present from Jesus’ earliest public ministry (cf. Luke 3:21-22). • Stayed “until the day Jesus was taken up” – a constant companion all the way through the ascension (cf. Acts 1:9). • “Must become a witness… of His resurrection” – personally saw the risen Lord and is now commissioned to testify about that historical event. Three core qualifications spelled out 1. Continuous companionship – proves firsthand knowledge, not hearsay. 2. Eyewitness experience – saw, heard, touched the risen Jesus (cf. 1 John 1:1-3). 3. Focused testimony – their chief message is the literal, bodily resurrection (cf. Acts 2:32; 3:15; 4:33). Why the resurrection is the centerpiece • It validates Jesus as Messiah and Lord (Acts 2:36). • It fulfills Scripture (Psalm 16:10; Acts 13:32-37). • It guarantees future judgment and hope (Acts 17:31; 1 Corinthians 15:20-22). Authority tied to eyewitness status • Apostles lay the foundation of the church (Ephesians 2:20). • Their message is “once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 3). • Not “cleverly devised myths,” but “eyewitnesses of His majesty” (2 Peter 1:16). Ongoing significance for believers today • No one meets Acts 1:22 criteria now; the apostolic circle is historically fixed. • We rely on their Spirit-inspired testimony preserved in the New Testament (John 20:30-31). • Our witness echoes theirs: proclaiming the risen Christ with confidence that their record is accurate and literal (1 Corinthians 15:3-8). |
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