What is the meaning of Acts 5:30? The God of our fathers - Peter begins with a familiar title that links the message of Jesus to the covenant history of Israel. - By invoking “the God of our fathers,” he reminds the Sanhedrin that the same God who spoke to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Exodus 3:6; Acts 3:13) is the One acting now. - This phrase underscores continuity: the gospel is not a new religion but the fulfillment of God’s longstanding promises (Genesis 17:7; Acts 13:32-33). - It also carries a gentle yet firm invitation: if they revere the patriarchs, they must listen to what their God has done and repent (Acts 7:2). raised up Jesus - “Raised up” points first to the resurrection. God literally brought Jesus back from the dead (Acts 2:24; Romans 6:4). • The resurrection vindicates Jesus as Messiah and Lord (Romans 1:4). • It assures believers of future resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:20-22). - The phrase can also echo God’s purposeful raising of a deliverer, as in Judges 3:9. Jesus is the ultimate Deliverer. - By highlighting God’s action, Peter shifts attention from human rejection to divine approval (Psalm 118:22-23; Acts 4:10-12). whom you had killed - Peter holds the leaders accountable: “you.” He had earlier declared, “this Jesus, whom you crucified” (Acts 2:23; 4:10). - Yet he never singles out only the leaders; humanity’s sin placed Jesus on the cross (Isaiah 53:5-6; Romans 5:8). - The statement is both accusation and invitation—exposing guilt so that grace can be received (Acts 3:19). by hanging Him on a tree - “Tree” recalls Deuteronomy 21:23, where a hanged man is under God’s curse. • By taking that curse, Jesus redeems us from it (Galatians 3:13). - The word pictures the wooden cross without technical jargon, stressing shame and curse rather than mere execution method (1 Peter 2:24). - Peter shows the paradox: what looked like a cursed death became the means of blessing (John 3:14-15). summary Acts 5:30 weaves Israel’s story, Jesus’ resurrection, human guilt, and the cursed cross into one verse. The same covenant-keeping God raised the rejected Messiah, exposing sin while extending salvation. What seemed like defeat was God’s triumphant plan to bring life to all who trust in the risen Lord. |
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