Acts 2:16
But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel;
Original Language Analysis
ἀλλὰ
But
G235
ἀλλὰ
But
Strong's:
G235
Word #:
1 of 9
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 9
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
εἰρημένον
that which was spoken
G2046
εἰρημένον
that which was spoken
Strong's:
G2046
Word #:
5 of 9
an alternate for g2036 in certain tenses; to utter, i.e., speak or say
διὰ
by
G1223
διὰ
by
Strong's:
G1223
Word #:
6 of 9
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 9
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Historical Context
Joel prophesied circa 835-796 BC during Judah's locust plague, using temporal judgment to point toward eschatological blessing. Peter, under Spirit inspiration, declares Pentecost inaugurates Joel's 'last days' - the period between Christ's advents when the Spirit dwells among believers.
Questions for Reflection
- How does 'this is that' hermeneutics shape your Bible reading - seeing Christ in all Scripture?
- What does Pentecost's fulfillment of Joel teach about God's faithfulness to ancient promises?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Peter's declaration 'this is that' marks a pivotal hermeneutical moment - Old Testament prophecy finding New Testament fulfillment. The Greek 'touto estin' (this is) asserts direct correspondence between Joel's vision and Pentecost's reality. This interpretive method, authorized by the Spirit Himself, becomes normative for understanding how Christ fulfills all prophetic promises. The apostles didn't invent new meaning but revealed God's intended meaning all along.