Acts 2:36

KJV

Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.

KJV (with Strong's)

Therefore {G3767} let {G1097} all {G3956} the house {G3624} of Israel {G2474} know {G1097} assuredly {G806}, that {G3754} God {G2316} hath made {G4160} that same {G5126} Jesus {G2424}, whom {G3739} ye {G5210} have crucified {G4717}, both {G2532} Lord {G2962} and {G2532} Christ {G5547}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Therefore, let the whole house of Isra’el know beyond doubt that God has made him both Lord and Messiah — this Yeshua, whom you executed on a stake!”

Berean Standard Bible

Therefore let all Israel know with certainty that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ!”

American Standard Version

Let all the house of Israel therefore know assuredly, that God hath made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom ye crucified.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 2:36 stands as the climactic declaration of Peter's Pentecost sermon, unequivocally proclaiming to the gathered Jewish multitude in Jerusalem the true identity and divine authority of Jesus of Nazareth. It asserts that despite human rejection and crucifixion, God has sovereignly exalted this very Jesus, establishing Him as both the supreme Lord and the long-awaited Messiah. This profound statement serves as the pinnacle of Peter's argument, demanding a decisive response from his hearers regarding Jesus' unparalleled status.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Acts 2:36 functions as the powerful summation and theological punchline of Peter's Spirit-empowered sermon on the Day of Pentecost. The address begins immediately after the dramatic outpouring of the Holy Spirit, which led to the disciples speaking in various languages, drawing a large crowd (see [Acts 2:1-13](/acts/2-1-13 "Acts 2:1-13 - The Day of Pentecost")). Peter then stands to explain these events, systematically presenting evidence for Jesus' Messiahship and resurrection, drawing heavily from Old Testament prophecies. He first addresses the phenomenon of tongues, connecting it to Joel's prophecy of the Spirit's outpouring ([Acts 2:14-21](/acts/2-14-21 "Acts 2:14-21 - Peter's Explanation of Pentecost")). He then pivots to Jesus, highlighting His miraculous works, His crucifixion "by the hands of lawless men," and crucially, God's raising Him from the dead ([Acts 2:22-24](/acts/2-22-24 "Acts 2:22-24 - Jesus' Life, Death, and Resurrection")). Peter extensively quotes Psalm 16 to prove David's prophetic foresight regarding the Messiah's resurrection ([Acts 2:25-31](/acts/2-25-31 "Acts 2:25-31 - Peter Cites Psalm 16")). He further substantiates Jesus' exaltation by citing Psalm 110:1, which speaks of the Lord sitting at God's right hand—a prophecy that David could not have fulfilled himself ([Acts 2:32-35](/acts/2-32-35 "Acts 2:32-35 - Jesus' Ascension and Exaltation")). Verse 36, therefore, is the decisive conclusion, a direct and undeniable pronouncement that synthesizes all the preceding arguments into a singular, irrefutable truth about Jesus.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is Jerusalem during the Feast of Pentecost, a significant Jewish pilgrimage festival. The audience consists of "devout Jews from every nation under heaven" ([Acts 2:5](/acts/2-5 "Acts 2:5 - Diverse Audience in Jerusalem")), many of whom would have been present in Jerusalem just weeks earlier for the Passover, witnessing or hearing about Jesus' crucifixion. This audience would have been deeply steeped in Old Testament messianic expectations, anticipating a political or military deliverer. Peter, a Galilean fisherman, stands before this diverse, yet predominantly Jewish, crowd, empowered by the Holy Spirit. His address is delivered in a public space, likely the Temple courts, where large gatherings were common. The charge "whom ye have crucified" is a direct and shocking accusation, holding the audience accountable for their complicity in the death of Jesus, whether by direct action or by silent assent. The declaration that God has "made" Jesus both "Lord" and "Christ" would have been revolutionary and challenging to their preconceived notions of the Messiah, especially given their role in His execution.

* **Key Themes:** Acts 2:36 powerfully contributes to several major theological and narrative themes within the book of Acts and the broader New Testament. A primary theme is **God's Sovereign Plan and Exaltation of Jesus**. Despite the human act of crucifixion, God's divine purpose was not thwarted but fulfilled, demonstrating His ultimate control and ability to bring good out of human sin. This verse underscores the **Dual Identity and Authority of Jesus**: He is declared both "Lord" (Greek: _Kyrios_), signifying divine sovereignty, supreme authority, and often deity, echoing the Septuagint's use for Yahweh, and "Christ" (Greek: _Christos_, Hebrew: _Messiah_), confirming His role as the long-awaited Anointed One, the promised King and Savior of Israel. This dual title is foundational to understanding Jesus' unique person and work. Furthermore, the imperative "let all the house of Israel know assuredly" highlights the theme of **Certainty and Call to Knowledge**. Peter's sermon is not merely informative but transformative, aiming to bring conviction and an undeniable understanding of who Jesus truly is, prompting a necessary response from the audience, as seen in their immediate reaction in [Acts 2:37](/acts/2-37 "Acts 2:37 - The Audience's Conviction"). This verse also reinforces the theme of **Continuity between Old Testament Prophecy and New Testament Fulfillment**, as Peter consistently roots his claims about Jesus in the Hebrew Scriptures, demonstrating that Jesus is the culmination of God's redemptive history.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **know assuredly (Greek, _ginṓskō_ G1097, _asphalōs_ G806):** The verb _ginṓskō_ means "to know" in a deep, experiential, and often transformative sense, implying more than mere intellectual assent. It suggests understanding, perceiving, and being fully aware. Coupled with the adverb _asphalōs_, meaning "securely" or "safely," it emphasizes the absolute certainty and undeniable truth of the declaration. The phrase conveys a call for the entire house of Israel to grasp this truth with unwavering conviction, recognizing its firm foundation and profound implications.
* **made (Greek, _poiéō_ G4160):** This verb is broad in its application, meaning "to make or do." In this context, it signifies God's active, decisive, and authoritative act of establishing or constituting Jesus in His exalted position. It is not that Jesus *became* Lord or Christ at this point, but rather that God publicly and definitively *declared* and *installed* Him in these roles, demonstrating His supreme authority over all creation and His fulfillment of messianic prophecy. This act of "making" highlights God's sovereign initiative in Jesus' exaltation.
* **Lord (Greek, _kýrios_ G2962) and Christ (Greek, _Christós_ G5547):** _Kýrios_ denotes supreme authority and control, often used as a respectful title for a master or ruler. In the Septuagint (the Greek Old Testament), _Kyrios_ frequently translates the divine name Yahweh, imbuing it with strong theological weight, suggesting deity. By declaring Jesus "Lord," Peter attributes to Him a status of divine sovereignty and universal dominion. _Christós_ is the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew _Messiah_, meaning "Anointed One." This title affirms Jesus as the long-prophesied deliverer, king, and savior of Israel, the one chosen and consecrated by God for a specific redemptive mission. Together, "Lord and Christ" encapsulate Jesus' dual identity as both divine sovereign and the promised Messiah, fulfilling all scriptural expectations.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly,"**: This opening phrase serves as a powerful imperative and a direct address to the entire Jewish nation. "Therefore" links this climactic statement to the preceding proofs of Jesus' resurrection and exaltation. The command "let...know assuredly" emphasizes the certainty and undeniable nature of the truth about to be revealed, demanding a firm and settled conviction from the audience. It is not an invitation to consider, but a declaration to accept as fact.
* **"that God hath made that same Jesus,"**: This clause identifies the divine agent behind the profound truth: God Himself. The phrase "that same Jesus" is crucial, forcefully connecting the crucified man they knew with the exalted figure Peter is proclaiming. It highlights the continuity of identity—the one they rejected and executed is the one God has now definitively acted upon. The verb "made" signifies God's sovereign act of constituting or establishing Jesus in a new, publicly recognized status.
* **"whom ye have crucified,"**: This is a stark and direct accusation, a moment of profound confrontation. Peter holds the audience accountable for their complicity in the crucifixion of Jesus. This accusation is not merely historical but theological, highlighting the depth of human sin and rebellion against God's chosen one. It serves to convict the hearers, setting the stage for their subsequent question, "What shall we do?"
* **"both Lord and Christ."**: This is the core theological declaration, the culmination of Peter's sermon. It defines Jesus' ultimate identity and authority. "Lord" (Kyrios) signifies His divine sovereignty and universal dominion, while "Christ" (Messiah) confirms His role as the promised Anointed One, the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy. Together, these titles declare Jesus as the supreme ruler and the long-awaited deliverer, establishing His unique position in God's redemptive plan.

#### Literary Devices
Acts 2:36 employs several potent **Literary Devices** to achieve its dramatic and theological impact. Firstly, it functions as a **Climax** and **Summation** of Peter's entire sermon. All preceding arguments and scriptural proofs converge in this singular, definitive statement, delivering the ultimate verdict on Jesus' identity. Secondly, it is a direct **Declaration** and **Proclamation**, characterized by its authoritative and unequivocal tone, leaving no room for doubt about the truth being presented. The phrase "let all the house of Israel know assuredly" acts as a strong imperative, demanding a response rather than simply offering information. Thirdly, there is a powerful **Contrast** presented between human action and divine action: "whom ye have crucified" stands in stark opposition to "God hath made." This contrast highlights God's sovereignty and His ability to overturn human sin and opposition to accomplish His purposes. Finally, the verse uses **Emphasis** through the dual title "both Lord and Christ," underscoring the comprehensive nature of Jesus' authority and identity. The repetition of "that same Jesus" also serves to emphasize the continuity between the crucified man and the exalted figure.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 2:36 is a cornerstone of early Christian theology, profoundly impacting our understanding of Jesus' person and work. It articulates the essential truth that the Jesus who was crucified by human hands is the very one whom God has exalted to the highest position of authority and sovereignty. This declaration establishes Jesus' unique identity as both fully divine ("Lord") and the fulfillment of all messianic prophecy ("Christ"). It underscores God's unwavering faithfulness to His promises, demonstrating that even the most heinous human act—the crucifixion of His Son—was incorporated into His redemptive plan. The verse also lays the groundwork for the call to repentance and faith, as recognizing Jesus as Lord and Christ necessitates a reorientation of one's life in submission to His authority. This truth forms the bedrock of the gospel message, inviting all people to acknowledge Jesus' supreme reign and embrace Him as their Savior and King.

* [Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Jesus' Exaltation and Universal Lordship")
* [Romans 10:9-10](/romans/10-9-10 "Romans 10:9-10 - Confessing Jesus as Lord for Salvation")
* [Matthew 16:16](/matthew/16-16 "Matthew 16:16 - Peter's Confession of Jesus as the Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 2:36 continues to resonate with profound relevance for believers today, serving as a foundational truth upon which our faith is built. It calls us to a deeper understanding and unwavering conviction regarding the absolute identity and authority of Jesus Christ. For those who profess faith in Him, this verse is a powerful reminder that the Jesus we worship is not merely a historical figure or a good teacher, but the sovereign Lord of the universe and the promised Messiah, exalted by God Himself. This truth should inspire profound worship, humble submission, and courageous proclamation. Recognizing Jesus as "Lord" means acknowledging His rightful place as the supreme authority in every area of our lives, prompting us to align our will with His. Recognizing Him as "Christ" reminds us of His redemptive work, His fulfillment of God's plan, and His ongoing role as our Savior. Just as Peter's audience was "cut to the heart" by this declaration ([Acts 2:37](/acts/2-37 "Acts 2:37 - The Audience's Conviction and Response")), so too should we allow this truth to penetrate our hearts, leading us to a renewed commitment to live under His Lordship and to share the good news of His Messiahship with a world in need.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does it mean for me personally that Jesus, whom humanity crucified, has been made "both Lord and Christ" by God?**
* **In what areas of my life do I need to more fully acknowledge Jesus' Lordship and submit to His authority?**
* **How does the certainty expressed in "know assuredly" impact my confidence in sharing the gospel with others?**
* **Considering the audience's reaction in Acts 2:37, what is my own response to the truth of Jesus' identity as Lord and Christ?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of Jesus being declared "both Lord and Christ" in this verse?**

Answer: The declaration that Jesus is "both Lord and Christ" is profoundly significant because it encapsulates His dual identity and supreme authority. "Lord" (Greek: _Kyrios_) signifies His divine sovereignty and universal dominion, often echoing the Septuagint's use of _Kyrios_ for Yahweh, implying deity. It means Jesus is the supreme ruler over all creation. "Christ" (Greek: _Christos_) is the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew _Messiah_, meaning "Anointed One." This title affirms Jesus as the long-awaited, prophesied deliverer, king, and savior of Israel, the fulfillment of centuries of Old Testament expectation. Together, these titles assert that Jesus is not only the promised Messiah who fulfills God's redemptive plan for Israel but also the divine sovereign who holds ultimate authority over all things. This comprehensive identity demands worship, submission, and faith from all who hear it.

**Why does Peter emphasize that "God hath made" Jesus Lord and Christ, especially after mentioning that "ye have crucified" Him?**

Answer: Peter emphasizes that "God hath made" Jesus Lord and Christ to highlight God's ultimate sovereignty and His ability to bring about His divine purposes despite human sin and opposition. The phrase "whom ye have crucified" serves as a direct and convicting accusation, holding the audience accountable for their role in Jesus' death. However, immediately following this, Peter proclaims that God actively "made" or established Jesus in His exalted position. This juxtaposition powerfully demonstrates that human rebellion could not thwart God's plan. Instead, God sovereignly used the crucifixion—the ultimate act of human rejection—as the very means to accomplish His redemptive purpose and to exalt Jesus to His rightful place as Lord and Christ. It underscores that Jesus' authority is not self-proclaimed but divinely ordained and established by the Father.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 2:36 serves as a pivotal Christ-centered fulfillment, standing as the New Testament's foundational declaration of Jesus' complete identity and exalted status, which was foreshadowed throughout the Old Testament. Peter's sermon, culminating in this verse, reveals that the crucified Jesus of Nazareth is none other than the promised Messiah (Christ) and the sovereign God (Lord) of Israel. This fulfills the long-held messianic expectations, showing that the Davidic King prophesied in [2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12-16 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - God's Covenant with David") and the suffering servant of [Isaiah 53](/isaiah/53 "Isaiah 53 - The Suffering Servant") are one and the same in Jesus. Furthermore, the declaration of Jesus as "Lord" resonates with Old Testament passages where Yahweh is depicted as the supreme ruler, establishing Jesus' divine authority and universal dominion, a truth affirmed throughout the New Testament, as seen in [Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Jesus' Exaltation and Universal Lordship") where every knee will bow to Him. God's act of "making" Jesus Lord and Christ is the ultimate vindication of His Son, demonstrating His triumph over sin and death, and His enthronement at the Father's right hand, as described in [Ephesians 1:20-22](/ephesians/1-20-22 "Ephesians 1:20-22 - Christ's Exaltation and Authority"). This verse therefore encapsulates the very heart of the gospel: that the Jesus whom humanity rejected is the Christ whom God has exalted, reigning as Lord over all creation, and offering salvation to all who believe in His name, as powerfully articulated in [Romans 10:9](/romans/10-9 "Romans 10:9 - Confessing Jesus as Lord").

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Acts 5:30

The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree.

Acts 5:31

Him hath God exalted with his right hand [to be] a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.

Romans 14:8

For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's.

Romans 14:12

So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.

2 Corinthians 5:10

For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things [done] in [his] body, according to that he hath done, whether [it be] good or bad.

Acts 4:11

This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.

Acts 4:12

Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.