What Old Testament prophecy is Peter referencing in Acts 2:31? Acts 2:31 in Focus “Foreseeing this, David spoke about the resurrection of the Christ: that He was not abandoned to Hades, nor did His body see decay.” The Prophecy Peter Cites “For You will not abandon my soul to Sheol, nor will You let Your Holy One see decay.” (Psalm 16:10) Key Details from Psalm 16:8-11 - David speaks prophetically, looking beyond his own experience. - The “Holy One” is singular, pointing to the Messiah. - Two promises stand out: • The soul will not be left in the realm of the dead. • The body will not undergo decay. - Verse 11 extends the hope: “You will fill me with joy in Your presence, with eternal pleasures at Your right hand.” How Peter Applies the Prophecy - David’s tomb was still in Jerusalem (Acts 2:29); therefore, the words could not be ultimately about David. - Jesus’ resurrection on the third day fulfilled both parts of the promise—His soul returned from Hades, and His body never decayed. - The fulfillment validates Jesus as the promised Messiah and confirms the reliability of Scripture. Related Passages - Acts 13:35—Paul also quotes Psalm 16:10 to prove the resurrection. - Isaiah 53:10-12—foretells the Messiah’s suffering and life after death. - Luke 24:44-46—Jesus Himself points to the Law, Prophets, and Psalms as testifying to His resurrection. Why This Matters Today - Confirms the trustworthiness of Old Testament prophecy. - Grounds our hope of resurrection in Christ’s accomplished victory. - Encourages confidence that every promise of God will be literally fulfilled. |
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