Acts 26:23

KJV

That Christ should suffer, [and] that he should be the first that should rise from the dead, and should shew light unto the people, and to the Gentiles.

KJV (with Strong's)

That {G1487} Christ {G5547} should suffer {G3805}, and that {G1487} he should be the first {G4413} that should rise {G386} from {G1537} the dead {G3498}, and should {G3195} shew {G2605} light {G5457} unto the people {G2992}, and {G2532} to the Gentiles {G1484}.

Complete Jewish Bible

that the Messiah would die, and that he, as the first to rise from the dead, would proclaim light to both the People and the Goyim.”

Berean Standard Bible

that the Christ would suffer, and as the first to rise from the dead, would proclaim light to our people and to the Gentiles.”

American Standard Version

how that the Christ must suffer, and how that he first by the resurrection of the dead should proclaim light both to the people and to the Gentiles.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In Acts 26:23, Paul, in his defense before King Agrippa II, succinctly articulates the core tenets of his gospel message, asserting that his preaching aligns perfectly with the prophecies of Moses and the Prophets. He declares that the Christ, the Messiah, was destined not only to suffer but also to be the very first to rise from the dead, thereby demonstrating His preeminence and power, and subsequently to bring the light of salvation and truth to both the Jewish people and the Gentile nations. This verse encapsulates the universal scope and redemptive power of the Christian message, rooted deeply in Old Testament expectation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Acts 26:23 is the climactic summary of Paul's impassioned defense speech before King Agrippa II, Governor Festus, and Bernice, as recorded in [Acts 26:1-29](/acts/26-1-29 "Paul's Defense Before Agrippa"). Having been accused by the Jews and held in custody, Paul uses this opportunity not merely to defend himself against charges, but to boldly proclaim the gospel message and his personal encounter with the risen Christ. The verse serves as the theological bedrock of his argument, demonstrating that his mission is not a deviation from Judaism but its divinely ordained fulfillment. Paul explicitly states in [Acts 26:22](/acts/26-22 "Paul's Testimony: What Moses and the Prophets Said") that his message is precisely "what Moses and the prophets did say should come," setting the stage for the concise summary of Christ's suffering, resurrection, and universal mission in the subsequent verse.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul's trial takes place in Caesarea, the Roman provincial capital, before a Roman governor (Festus) and a Jewish king (Agrippa II), who, along with his sister Bernice, held significant influence and knowledge of Jewish customs and prophecies. This setting is crucial, as Paul leverages Agrippa's familiarity with the prophets to validate his message. The Jewish expectation of the Messiah was predominantly that of a conquering king who would liberate Israel from Roman rule, making the concept of a suffering and crucified Messiah a profound stumbling block. Furthermore, the idea that the Messiah's salvation would extend to the Gentiles was deeply controversial, challenging the prevailing ethnocentric views of many Jews. Paul's assertion of "light unto the people, and to the Gentiles" directly confronts these cultural and religious barriers, echoing the prophetic vision of a universal kingdom.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several overarching themes central to the book of Acts and Pauline theology. Firstly, it underscores the **fulfillment of prophecy**, asserting that Christ's life, death, and resurrection were not random events but the divinely orchestrated culmination of Old Testament predictions, particularly those concerning the suffering servant (e.g., [Isaiah 53](/isaiah/53 "Isaiah 53 - The Suffering Servant")) and the light to the nations (e.g., [Isaiah 49:6](/isaiah/49-6 "Isaiah 49:6 - A Light to the Gentiles")). Secondly, it highlights the **supremacy and uniqueness of Christ's resurrection**, portraying Him as the "first" to rise, signifying His victory over death and His role as the "firstfruits" of the resurrection, guaranteeing future resurrection for believers, as elaborated in [1 Corinthians 15:20](/1_corinthians/15-20 "1 Corinthians 15:20 - Christ, the Firstfruits")). Thirdly, the verse emphasizes the **universal scope of the gospel**, breaking down the traditional barriers between Jew and Gentile and affirming God's redemptive plan for all humanity, a theme Paul passionately championed throughout his ministry, often facing intense opposition for it.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **suffer (Greek, _pathētós'_):** Derived from the same root as "suffering" or "passion," this word signifies being "liable (i.e., doomed) to experience pain." In the context of Christ, it denotes that His suffering was not accidental or a deviation from God's plan, but a divinely appointed necessity. It emphasizes the preordained nature of His crucifixion and the redemptive purpose behind His pain, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies of a suffering Messiah.
* **first (Greek, _prōtos'_):** This term, a superlative of "before," means "foremost" in time, place, order, or importance. When applied to Christ's resurrection, it signifies not merely chronological priority (as others were raised before Him, e.g., Lazarus), but His preeminence and unique status. He is the inaugural one, the archetype, the one who rises with a glorified, incorruptible body, never to die again, thus establishing Him as the head of a new creation and the guarantee of the resurrection for all believers.
* **light (Greek, _phōs'_):** From an obsolete root meaning "to shine or make manifest," this word encompasses luminousness in its widest application, whether natural, artificial, abstract, or concrete, literal or figurative. In this verse, "light" is used metaphorically to represent spiritual understanding, truth, salvation, and divine revelation. It stands in stark contrast to the darkness of sin, ignorance, and spiritual death, signifying the illuminating power of the gospel message that dispels spiritual blindness.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"That Christ should suffer":** This clause asserts the necessary and predetermined nature of the Messiah's suffering. For Paul, the crucifixion was not a defeat but a central, prophesied component of God's redemptive plan. This directly challenged Jewish expectations of a triumphant, non-suffering Messiah, emphasizing instead the vicarious atonement accomplished through His passion.
* **"and that he should be the first that should rise from the dead":** This highlights the unique and foundational significance of Christ's resurrection. It underscores His victory over death and sin, establishing Him as the pioneer of resurrection life. His rising is not merely a resuscitation but a transformation, setting the pattern and guaranteeing the future resurrection of all who are united with Him by faith.
* **"and should shew light unto the people, and to the Gentiles":** This final clause declares the universal scope of the gospel's saving power. "The people" refers primarily to Israel (the Jewish people), while "the Gentiles" encompasses all other nations. This emphasizes that the illuminating truth and salvation offered through Christ are not exclusive to one ethnic group but are intended for all humanity, fulfilling God's ancient covenant promises to bless all nations through Abraham's seed.

#### Literary Devices
Acts 26:23 employs several potent literary devices. **Parallelism** is evident in the phrase "unto the people, and to the Gentiles," which highlights the dual recipients of the gospel message, emphasizing its universal reach. The use of **Symbolism** is profound, particularly with "light" (Greek: _phōs_), which represents spiritual truth, salvation, and divine revelation, contrasting with the darkness of ignorance and sin. This imagery is deeply rooted in both Old Testament prophecy (e.g., God as light) and New Testament theology (Jesus as the Light of the World). Furthermore, the entire verse functions as a powerful declaration of **Fulfillment**, asserting that Christ's life, death, and resurrection are the precise realization of what "Moses and the prophets did say should come," thereby lending divine authority and historical continuity to Paul's message.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 26:23 stands as a theological cornerstone, articulating the very heart of the gospel message that Paul proclaimed. It underscores the profound continuity between the Old Testament prophecies and their New Testament fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The suffering of the Messiah, His preeminent resurrection, and the universal dissemination of His light are not new doctrines but the unfolding of God's eternal plan for salvation, meticulously foretold and now gloriously revealed. This verse affirms God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises, demonstrating that His redemptive purposes extend beyond any single nation to embrace all humanity, thereby establishing the foundation for a truly global church. It challenges any narrow, exclusive view of God's grace, proclaiming an inclusive salvation available to all who believe.

* [Isaiah 53:5](/isaiah/53-5 "Isaiah 53:5 - The Suffering Servant's Atonement"): "But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed."
* [1 Corinthians 15:20](/1_corinthians/15-20 "1 Corinthians 15:20 - Christ as the Firstfruits of Resurrection"): "But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept."
* [Luke 24:46-47](/luke/24-46-47 "Luke 24:46-47 - Prophecy of Christ's Suffering, Resurrection, and Global Preaching"): "And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 26:23 serves as a powerful reminder of the unchanging, foundational truths of the Christian faith. For believers today, it encourages a deep appreciation for God's sovereign plan, which meticulously orchestrated Christ's suffering and resurrection for our salvation. This verse calls us to embrace the universal scope of the gospel, recognizing that the "light" of Christ is meant for every person, regardless of their background, ethnicity, or social status. Just as Paul boldly declared this message before kings and governors, we are likewise empowered to share the good news with confidence, knowing that it is rooted in ancient prophecy and offers ultimate hope. It challenges us to look beyond our immediate circles and actively participate in God's mission to bring His illuminating truth to "the people, and to the Gentiles" in our own communities and across the globe, living out the inclusive love of Christ in a divided world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding Christ's suffering as a divinely appointed necessity, rather than a tragic accident, deepen your appreciation for His sacrifice?**
* **In what ways does Christ being "the first that should rise from the dead" provide assurance and hope for your own future and the future of creation?**
* **How can you personally contribute to "shewing light unto the people, and to the Gentiles" in your daily life and through your church's mission?**
* **Considering Paul's boldness in proclaiming this message before powerful officials, what fears or hesitations might you need to overcome to share the gospel more courageously?**

### FAQ

**Why was Christ's suffering necessary according to this verse?**

Answer: Acts 26:23 states "That Christ should suffer," indicating that His suffering was not an unforeseen event but a divinely ordained and prophesied necessity. This aligns with numerous Old Testament prophecies, particularly those concerning the "suffering servant" in [Isaiah 53](/isaiah/53 "Isaiah 53 - The Suffering Servant"), which foretold that the Messiah would bear the sins of many through His pain and death. His suffering was essential for atonement, providing the means for humanity's reconciliation with God and fulfilling God's redemptive plan. It was through His suffering that He accomplished salvation, demonstrating the depth of God's love and justice.

**What does "the first that should rise from the dead" imply about Jesus?**

Answer: This phrase signifies Christ's preeminence and unique victory over death. While others were brought back to life before Him (e.g., Lazarus in [John 11](/john/11 "John 11 - The Raising of Lazarus")), Jesus was the first to rise with a glorified, immortal body, never to die again. He is the "firstfruits" of the resurrection (as described in [1 Corinthians 15:20](/1_corinthians/15-20 "1 Corinthians 15:20 - Christ as the Firstfruits of Resurrection") and [Colossians 1:18](/colossians/1-18 "Colossians 1:18 - Christ, the Head of the Church")), meaning His resurrection guarantees the future resurrection of all who believe in Him. It validates His identity as the Son of God and the efficacy of His atoning work, establishing Him as sovereign over death and the beginning of a new spiritual creation.

**Why is it significant that Christ "should shew light unto the people, and to the Gentiles"?**

Answer: This statement highlights the universal scope of the gospel message. "The people" refers primarily to the Jewish nation, while "the Gentiles" refers to all other non-Jewish nations. For many Jews, salvation and God's blessings were seen as exclusive to Israel. However, Paul's message, rooted in Old Testament prophecy (e.g., [Isaiah 49:6](/isaiah/49-6 "Isaiah 49:6 - A Light to the Gentiles")), declares that the "light" of spiritual truth, salvation, and understanding through Christ is intended for all humanity. This inclusivity was a revolutionary concept and a major point of contention for Paul, but it underscores God's desire for all people to come to repentance and knowledge of the truth, breaking down ethnic and cultural barriers to salvation.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 26:23 masterfully encapsulates the Christ-centered fulfillment of God's redemptive plan, demonstrating how Jesus is the culmination of all Old Testament prophecy. The declaration that "Christ should suffer" directly points to Jesus as the prophesied suffering Servant of [Isaiah 53](/isaiah/53 "Isaiah 53 - The Suffering Servant"), whose vicarious death atones for the sins of humanity, a truth profoundly explored in [Hebrews 2:9-10](/hebrews/2-9-10 "Hebrews 2:9-10 - Jesus, Crowned with Glory and Honor Through Suffering"). Furthermore, His being "the first that should rise from the dead" establishes Jesus as the ultimate victor over death and the pioneer of new creation life, not merely a resuscitation, but a glorified resurrection that guarantees the future hope of all believers, as illuminated in [Colossians 1:18](/colossians/1-18 "Colossians 1:18 - Christ, the Head of the Church") and [Revelation 1:5](/revelation/1-5 "Revelation 1:5 - Jesus, the Firstborn from the Dead"). Finally, the promise that He "should shew light unto the people, and to the Gentiles" reveals Jesus as the universal Light of the World, fulfilling prophecies like [Isaiah 49:6](/isaiah/49-6 "Isaiah 49:6 - A Light to the Gentiles") and echoing His own declaration in [John 8:12](/john/8-12 "John 8:12 - Jesus, the Light of the World"). Thus, Acts 26:23 presents Jesus Christ as the suffering, resurrected, and universally illuminating Messiah, perfectly fulfilling God's ancient promises and extending His saving grace to every corner of the earth.

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

Luke 24:26

Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory?

Isaiah 53:1

¶ Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed?

Isaiah 53:12

Therefore will I divide him [a portion] with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.

Revelation 1:5

And from Jesus Christ, [who is] the faithful witness, [and] the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,

Colossians 1:18

And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all [things] he might have the preeminence.

Daniel 9:24

Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy.

Daniel 9:26

And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself: and the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof [shall be] with a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are determined.