Acts 2:15
For these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day.
Original Language Analysis
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 13
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
ὡς
as
G5613
ὡς
as
Strong's:
G5613
Word #:
3 of 13
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
ὑπολαμβάνετε
suppose
G5274
ὑπολαμβάνετε
suppose
Strong's:
G5274
Word #:
5 of 13
to take from below, i.e., carry upward; figuratively, to take up, i.e., continue a discourse or topic; mentally, to assume (presume)
οὗτοι
these
G3778
οὗτοι
these
Strong's:
G3778
Word #:
6 of 13
the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
9 of 13
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
τρίτη
but the third
G5154
τρίτη
but the third
Strong's:
G5154
Word #:
11 of 13
third; neuter (as noun) a third part, or (as adverb) a (or the) third time, thirdly
Historical Context
Jewish custom prohibited eating or drinking before 9 AM during festivals. Morning prayer (Shacharit) occurred at the third hour, making drunkenness especially scandalous and unlikely. Peter's appeal to cultural norms established credibility before launching into prophetic exposition.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you balance rational explanation with openness to supernatural divine activity?
- When defending the faith, how can you follow Peter's example of reasoned preparation for gospel presentation?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Peter's logical refutation - 'it is but the third hour of the day' (9 AM) - demonstrates that supernatural phenomena require supernatural explanation, not dismissive naturalism. The Reformed principle of using reason in service of faith appears here: Peter doesn't abandon logic but employs it to clear ground for scriptural exposition. True drunkenness wouldn't produce coherent multilingual proclamation of God's works.