Acts 2:28
Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance.
Original Language Analysis
ὁδοὺς
the ways
G3598
ὁδοὺς
the ways
Strong's:
G3598
Word #:
3 of 11
a road; by implication, a progress (the route, act or distance); figuratively, a mode or means
πληρώσεις
full
G4137
πληρώσεις
full
Strong's:
G4137
Word #:
5 of 11
to make replete, i.e., (literally) to cram (a net), level up (a hollow), or (figuratively) to furnish (or imbue, diffuse, influence), satisfy, execute
μετὰ
with
G3326
μετὰ
with
Strong's:
G3326
Word #:
8 of 11
properly, denoting accompaniment; "amid" (local or causal); modified variously according to the case (genitive association, or accusative succession)
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Psalms 16:11Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.Psalms 21:6For thou hast made him most blessed for ever: thou hast made him exceeding glad with thy countenance.Hebrews 12:2Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.Psalms 17:15As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness.Psalms 25:4Shew me thy ways, O LORD; teach me thy paths.Psalms 42:5Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance.Proverbs 2:19None that go unto her return again, neither take they hold of the paths of life.
Historical Context
Psalm 16's conclusion envisions ultimate fellowship with God, transcending Old Testament shadows. Peter reveals this finds fulfillment not in David's life but in Christ's resurrection and believers' union with Him. The 'fulness of joy' contrasts with partial joys experienced in this age.
Questions for Reflection
- How does anticipating God's unveiled presence ('thy countenance') sustain you through present trials?
- What does resurrection as 'the way of life' teach about salvation's comprehensive nature beyond mere forgiveness?
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Analysis & Commentary
God making known 'the ways of life' refers to resurrection as the path to eternal life. The plural 'ways' (Greek 'hodous') suggests multiple aspects: Christ's resurrection way becomes our way (John 14:6). The promise of being filled 'with joy with thy countenance' anticipates eternal beatific vision - beholding God's face producing infinite satisfaction. This joy surpasses circumstantial happiness, rooted in God's presence, not world's pleasures.