Acts 2:36
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 2:36
36 Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.
Chapter Context
Acts 2 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of truth, wisdom, worship. 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 21-47: 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 2:36
36 Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.
Analysis
Peter's climactic assertion proclaims Jesus as both Messiah ('Christ') and divine Lord ('Lord'), titles carrying profound theological weight. The contrast between Jewish crucifixion and God's vindication through resurrection establishes Christianity's central paradox. 'Let all the house of Israel know assuredly' demands response to inescapable truth.
Historical Context
This verse concludes Peter's Pentecost sermon, appealing to eyewitness testimony of resurrection appearances. The title 'Lord' (Greek 'kurios') applied to Jesus equals the Septuagint's rendering of YHWH, asserting Jesus' deity to a Jewish audience familiar with such usage.
Reflection
- What does Jesus' lordship demand from those who acknowledge him as both Christ and Lord?
- How should the church proclaim Jesus' resurrection and lordship with similar boldness today?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master
Cross-References
- References Christ: Luke 2:11, 2 Corinthians 5:10
- References God: Ezekiel 34:30
- References Lord: Jeremiah 31:31, 33:14
- References Israel: Jeremiah 9:26
- Parallel theme: Zechariah 13:1