Acts 10:43
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 10:43
43 To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.
Chapter Context
Acts 10 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, judgment, fellowship. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Chronicles Christianity's spread across the Roman Empire despite official and unofficial opposition.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-48: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Acts and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Acts 10:43
43 To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.
Analysis
To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins—Peter's sermon climax unifies Old Testament witness: all prophets testified to Christ's saving work. The phrase 'through his name' (διὰ τοῦ ὀνόματος αὐτοῦ) emphasizes Christ's authority and person as salvation's sole ground. Whosoever believeth (πάντα τὸν πιστεύοντα) includes Gentiles—radical claim confirmed moments later by the Spirit falling on uncircumcised hearers (v.44). Remission of sins (ἄφεσιν ἁμαρτιῶν) applies Joel's covenant promise (2:32) universally. Faith, not ethnic identity or law-keeping, becomes salvation's condition.
Historical Context
Peter's summary of salvation history to Cornelius and his gathered household. While Peter preached, 'the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard' (v.44), preempting Peter's likely call for faith and baptism. This unsolicited Spirit outpouring on Gentiles paralleled Pentecost (v.47, 11:15), proving God accepted them without Jewish conversion. The Jewish believers present were 'astonished' (v.45).
Reflection
- How do 'all the prophets' testify to Christ in ways you haven't fully appreciated?
- What does 'whosoever believeth' teach about salvation's availability versus human religious qualifications?
Word Studies
- Prophet: προφήτης (Prophētēs) G4396 - Prophet
Cross-References
- Faith: John 5:24, Romans 5:1, 10:11, Galatians 3:22
- Sin: Acts 2:38, Jeremiah 31:34, Zechariah 13:1
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 53:11, Romans 8:1, 1 Peter 1:11