Acts 24:15

KJV

And have hope toward God, which they themselves also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust.

KJV (with Strong's)

And have {G2192} hope {G1680} toward {G1519} God {G2316}, which {G3739} they {G3778} themselves {G846} also {G2532} allow {G4327}, that there shall be {G3195}{G1510} a resurrection {G386} of the dead {G3498}, both {G5037} of the just {G1342} and {G2532} unjust {G94}.

Complete Jewish Bible

And I continue to have a hope in God — which they too accept — that there will be a resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous.

Berean Standard Bible

and I have the same hope in God that they themselves cherish, that there will be a resurrection of both the righteous and the wicked.

American Standard Version

having hope toward God, which these also themselves look for, that there shall be a resurrection both of the just and unjust.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In Acts 24:15, the Apostle Paul, while defending himself before Governor Felix, articulates a core tenet of his faith that aligns him with a significant portion of his Jewish accusers: the universal belief in a future resurrection. He declares his unwavering hope in God for this event, asserting that even his adversaries acknowledge the doctrine that there will be a resurrection of all the dead, encompassing both those deemed righteous and those considered unrighteous. This statement strategically underscores the continuity of his beliefs with Jewish tradition while simultaneously foreshadowing the ultimate divine judgment.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Acts 24 finds Paul on trial in Caesarea, accused by the Jewish high priest Ananias and the orator Tertullus of various offenses, including being a "pestilent fellow" and a "ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes" ([Acts 24:5](/acts/24-5 "Acts 24:5 - Accusations Against Paul")). Paul's defense is a carefully constructed argument that refutes the specific charges while also affirming his adherence to the Law and the Prophets. This particular verse, [Acts 24:15](/acts/24-15 "Acts 24:15 - Paul's Hope in the Resurrection"), serves as a crucial point in his defense, demonstrating that his "heresy" (Christianity) is, in fact, deeply rooted in a widely accepted Jewish belief. By appealing to the shared hope of resurrection, Paul strategically seeks to find common ground, particularly with the Pharisees present, who, unlike the Sadducees, believed in the resurrection (as highlighted in [Acts 23:6-8](/acts/23-6-8 "Acts 23:6-8 - Paul Divides the Sanhedrin")). His statement here reinforces his consistency and integrity, portraying himself not as a radical innovator but as a faithful Jew.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The trial takes place in Caesarea Maritima, the Roman administrative capital of Judea, before the Roman governor Antonius Felix. Roman law permitted the accused to present a defense, and Paul, as a Roman citizen, was afforded this right. The Jewish religious landscape of the 1st century was complex, marked by various sects with differing theological views. The Pharisees, a prominent group, believed in the resurrection of the dead, angels, and spirits, while the Sadducees, primarily aristocratic priests, rejected these doctrines, adhering strictly to the Pentateuch. Paul, himself a former Pharisee, leverages this theological divide to his advantage. His assertion that "they themselves also allow" the resurrection directly refers to the Pharisees among his accusers, creating a subtle but powerful appeal to their shared theological convictions and exposing the disunity among his Jewish opponents. This context highlights the political and religious tensions of the era and Paul's astute navigation of them.

* **Key Themes:** The central theme in [Acts 24:15](/acts/24-15 "Acts 24:15 - Paul's Hope in the Resurrection") is the **Hope of Resurrection**. Paul's declaration of hope "toward God" signifies a profound trust in God's power and faithfulness to raise the dead, a hope that transcends his immediate legal predicament. This hope is not merely an abstract belief but a foundational pillar of his faith, providing strength and perspective in the face of adversity. Another crucial theme is the **Universal Scope of Resurrection**. The explicit mention of "both the just and unjust" underscores that resurrection is not an exclusive privilege for the righteous but a universal event encompassing all humanity. This universality points to the overarching theme of **Divine Justice and Accountability**. The resurrection of the unjust implies a future reckoning or judgment, where every individual will stand before God to account for their deeds. This concept of ultimate justice is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, from Old Testament prophecies like [Daniel 12:2](/daniel/12-2 "Daniel 12:2 - Resurrection of Life and Contempt") to Jesus' teachings in [John 5:28-29](/john/5-28-29 "John 5:28-29 - Resurrection of Life and Condemnation"), emphasizing that God's moral order will ultimately be vindicated.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Hope (Greek, _elpís'_):** From a primary root meaning "to anticipate, usually with pleasure," this word signifies expectation, either abstractly or concretely, or confidence. Paul's "hope toward God" is not a mere wish but a confident expectation rooted in God's character and promises, particularly concerning the future resurrection. It is a theological virtue, a firm assurance of future good.
* **Resurrection (Greek, _anástasis'_):** Derived from _anístēmi_ (to stand up again), this term literally means "a standing up again." It refers to a resurrection from death, whether individual or by implication of its author. In this context, it vividly conveys the physical raising of the dead from their graves, a central tenet of both Jewish and Christian eschatology.
* **Just (Greek, _díkaios'_):** From _díkē_ (justice), this word describes someone who is equitable in character or act, innocent, or holy (absolutely or relatively). It refers to those who are righteous before God, either by their adherence to the Law or, in a New Testament context, by faith. The contrast with "unjust" highlights the moral and spiritual distinction between humanity, implying different outcomes in the resurrection.
* **Unjust (Greek, _ádikos'_):** Formed from a negative particle 'a' and _díkē_ (justice), this word means "unjust," and by extension, "wicked," or "treacherous." It describes those who are not righteous, who live contrary to God's standards, and are therefore subject to His judgment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And have hope toward God":** Paul asserts that his fundamental hope is directed not towards human institutions, legal outcomes, or earthly powers, but solely "toward God." This signifies a deep theological conviction and trust in God's ultimate sovereignty and faithfulness. His hope is anchored in divine promise, not human endeavor, providing stability in his tumultuous circumstances.
* **"which they themselves also allow":** This phrase is a crucial rhetorical move. Paul claims that the very people accusing him (specifically the Pharisees among them, as the Sadducees denied it) acknowledge or admit this doctrine of resurrection. By stating this, Paul highlights a shared theological conviction, undermining the basis of their accusation that he is teaching something entirely new or contrary to their shared heritage. It points to a common ground that transcends their immediate conflict.
* **"that there shall be a resurrection of the dead":** This is the core theological declaration. Paul affirms the future reality of a resurrection for all who have died. This is not a metaphorical or spiritual resurrection, but a literal "standing up again" of physical bodies, a belief central to both Old Testament prophecy and New Testament teaching. It underscores God's power over death itself.
* **"both of the just and unjust":** This critical qualification expands the scope of the resurrection to include all humanity, without exception. It implies a dual outcome: the resurrection of the "just" (the righteous) to eternal life and blessing, and the resurrection of the "unjust" (the unrighteous) to judgment and condemnation. This distinction highlights God's perfect justice, where every individual will ultimately face accountability for their life.

#### Literary Devices
Paul's statement in [Acts 24:15](/acts/24-15 "Acts 24:15 - Paul's Hope in the Resurrection") employs several potent literary devices. The most prominent is **Rhetorical Strategy**, as Paul masterfully uses a shared theological conviction (the resurrection) to bridge the divide between himself and his Pharisaic accusers, thereby weakening the prosecution's case. He appeals to common ground, subtly exposing the internal divisions within the Sanhedrin. Furthermore, the verse features clear **Antithesis** in the pairing of "the just and unjust." This juxtaposition highlights the universal scope of the resurrection while simultaneously emphasizing the distinct destinies awaiting these two categories of humanity, underscoring the theme of divine judgment. The phrase "hope toward God" also functions as a powerful **Declaration of Faith**, revealing Paul's unwavering spiritual orientation and the ultimate source of his confidence, even in the face of persecution.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 24:15 is a profound theological statement that connects to the broader biblical narrative of God's sovereignty over life and death, His ultimate justice, and the eschatological hope of His people. The resurrection of the dead is not merely a Jewish belief but a cornerstone of Christian theology, affirming God's power to overcome death and His commitment to a final reckoning. The inclusion of both the "just" and "unjust" reveals the comprehensiveness of God's plan, which includes both salvation for those who are righteous by faith and judgment for those who reject Him. This dual resurrection underscores the seriousness of human accountability and the necessity of responding to God's grace in this life, for the future holds an undeniable encounter with the divine Judge.

* [Daniel 12:2](/daniel/12-2 "Daniel 12:2 - Resurrection to Everlasting Life and Contempt")
* [John 5:28-29](/john/5-28-29 "John 5:28-29 - Resurrection of Life and Condemnation")
* [Revelation 20:11-15](/revelation/20-11-15 "Revelation 20:11-15 - The Great White Throne Judgment")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 24:15 offers profound implications for believers today, serving as a powerful anchor for Christian hope and a sobering reminder of divine accountability. For those who place their faith in Christ, this verse reinforces the glorious promise that death is not the end, but a transition to a future where bodies will be resurrected, transformed, and reunited with their spirits for eternity with God. This hope provides immense comfort in grief, courage in the face of suffering, and perspective in the midst of life's trials, knowing that our ultimate destiny is secured in God's hands. Conversely, the inclusion of the "unjust" in the resurrection serves as a stark warning, emphasizing the reality of a future judgment for all who reject God's offer of salvation. This truth compels believers to live lives of righteousness, to walk in holiness, and to embrace the urgency of sharing the Gospel, knowing that every person will one day stand before the Creator. It underscores the critical importance of responding to God's grace now, through faith in Jesus Christ, for the resurrection of the unjust leads to eternal condemnation.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Paul's "hope toward God" in a time of trial inform your own hope when facing adversity?**
* **What does the universal nature of the resurrection (for both just and unjust) teach us about God's character and His ultimate plan for humanity?**
* **How should the reality of a future resurrection and judgment impact the way you live your life today and your urgency in sharing the Gospel?**

### FAQ

**Who are "they themselves" that "allow" this hope, and why is that significant?**

Answer: "They themselves" primarily refers to the Pharisees among Paul's Jewish accusers. This is significant because, unlike the Sadducees who denied the resurrection, the Pharisees firmly believed in it. Paul, a former Pharisee, strategically highlights this shared theological conviction to demonstrate that his Christian faith is not a radical departure from Jewish tradition but rather a fulfillment of it. By appealing to a belief that even his accusers "allow" (meaning acknowledge or admit), Paul cleverly undermines the charges against him and exposes the internal divisions within the Jewish leadership, particularly between the Pharisees and Sadducees, as seen previously in [Acts 23:6-8](/acts/23-6-8 "Acts 23:6-8 - Paul Divides the Sanhedrin").

**What is the difference between the resurrection of the "just" and the "unjust"?**

Answer: The distinction between the resurrection of the "just" and the "unjust" points to two different outcomes or destinies. The "just" are those who are righteous before God, primarily through faith in Him, and their resurrection leads to eternal life and blessedness in God's presence. The "unjust" are those who are unrighteous and have rejected God's ways; their resurrection is unto judgment and condemnation, as described in passages like [John 5:29](/john/5-29 "John 5:29 - Resurrection of Life and Condemnation") and [Revelation 20:11-15](/revelation/20-11-15 "Revelation 20:11-15 - The Great White Throne Judgment"). Both groups will be raised, but for vastly different purposes, highlighting God's ultimate justice and the accountability of every individual.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 24:15 finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in Jesus Christ. The "hope toward God" for a universal resurrection is not a vague expectation but a concrete reality established by Christ's own victory over death. His resurrection from the dead, as recorded in the Gospels (e.g., [Matthew 28:1-10](/matthew/28-1-10 "Matthew 28:1-10 - The Resurrection of Jesus")), is the firstfruits and guarantee of the resurrection for all who believe in Him, as powerfully articulated by Paul in [1 Corinthians 15](/1_corinthians/15 "1 Corinthians 15 - The Resurrection of Christ")). Furthermore, Jesus is the one who embodies and grants the "just" status mentioned in the verse; it is through faith in His atoning work that believers are declared righteous before God ([Romans 3:21-26](/romans/3-21-26 "Romans 3:21-26 - Righteousness Through Faith")). He is also the appointed Judge of both the living and the dead ([Acts 10:42](/acts/10-42 "Acts 10:42 - Jesus Appointed Judge")), meaning the resurrection of the "unjust" ultimately leads them to stand before Him for judgment ([John 5:22](/john/5-22 "John 5:22 - The Father Judges No One, But Has Given All Judgment to the Son")). Thus, Christ is not only the object of our hope for resurrection but also the means by which we become "just" and the ultimate arbiter of the destiny of both the just and the unjust in the coming resurrection.

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

Daniel 12:2

And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame [and] everlasting contempt.

John 5:28

Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice,

John 5:29

And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.

1 Thessalonians 4:14

For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.

1 Thessalonians 4:16

For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:

Revelation 20:12

And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is [the book] of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.

Revelation 20:13

And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works.