Acts 13:35
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 13:35
35 Wherefore he saith also in another psalm, Thou shalt not suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.
Chapter Context
Acts 13 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of mercy, judgment, faith. 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 21-52: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. 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 13:35
35 Wherefore he saith also in another psalm, Thou shalt not suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.
Analysis
Wherefore he saith also in another psalm, Thou shalt not suffer thine Holy One to see corruption—Paul quotes Psalm 16:10 as his second messianic proof text, after citing Psalm 2:7. The Greek hosion (ὅσιον, 'Holy One') translates Hebrew hasid (חָסִיד), meaning 'faithful' or 'covenant-loyal one.' The word diaphthoran (διαφθοράν, 'corruption') refers to bodily decay, not mere death.
Paul's argument is exegetical brilliance: David died and decayed (v. 36), therefore he couldn't be speaking of himself. The psalm must prophesy the Messiah who would conquer death through resurrection. The 'Holy One' who sees no corruption can only be Jesus, whose body was raised incorruptible on the third day. This early apostolic preaching shows resurrection as central to gospel proclamation from the beginning.
Historical Context
Paul preached this sermon in the synagogue at Pisidian Antioch (c. AD 47-48) during his first missionary journey. His audience included both Jews and 'God-fearing' Gentiles familiar with the Psalms. The synagogue's liturgical practice of reading the Law and Prophets (v. 15) provided the invitation for Paul's exposition connecting David's psalms to Jesus's resurrection.
Reflection
- How does Paul's exegetical method of connecting Old Testament prophecy to Christ's resurrection inform how we should read the Psalms?
- Why is the incorruptibility of Jesus's body (no decay) theologically significant for our own resurrection hope?
Cross-References
- Holy: Psalms 16:10