Acts 5:31

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

Him {G5126} hath God {G2316} exalted {G5312} with his {G846} right hand {G1188} to be a Prince {G747} and {G2532} a Saviour {G4990}, for to give {G1325} repentance {G3341} to Israel {G2474}, and {G2532} forgiveness {G859} of sins {G266}.

Complete Jewish Bible

God has exalted this man at his right hand as Ruler and Savior, in order to enable Isra’el to do t’shuvah and have her sins forgiven.

Berean Standard Bible

God exalted Him to His right hand as Prince and Savior, in order to grant repentance and forgiveness of sins to Israel.

American Standard Version

Him did God exalt with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, to give repentance to Israel, and remission of sins.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 5:31 stands as a profound declaration by Peter before the Sanhedrin, articulating the exalted status and redemptive purpose of Jesus Christ. It asserts that God has sovereignly elevated the crucified Jesus to the highest position of authority, commissioning Him as both a divine Leader and the ultimate Deliverer. This divine appointment serves the specific, gracious purpose of granting both repentance and the complete forgiveness of sins, initially to Israel, but with universal implications for all who believe.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within a pivotal narrative in the book of Acts, specifically Peter's second defense before the Sanhedrin (Acts 5:27-32). Following their miraculous release from prison by an angel (Acts 5:17-21) and their immediate return to public preaching in the temple, the apostles are rearrested and brought before the very council that had previously forbidden them from speaking in Jesus's name (Acts 4:18). Peter's declaration in Acts 5:29, "We must obey God rather than human beings," sets the stage for his bold proclamation of Jesus's resurrection and exaltation. Acts 5:30-32, including our focal verse, forms the core of Peter's unyielding testimony, directly challenging the Sanhedrin's authority by asserting God's supreme authority and Christ's divine commission. This passage reinforces the apostles' unwavering commitment to the gospel message, even in the face of severe persecution, and highlights the divine power backing their ministry.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Sanhedrin, the supreme Jewish judicial and religious council, wielded significant authority in Judea under Roman oversight. Their primary concern was maintaining religious and social order, particularly in Jerusalem, and they viewed the burgeoning Christian movement as a disruptive, heretical sect that threatened their established traditions and potentially their relationship with Rome. The crucifixion of Jesus, sanctioned by this very council, was seen by them as the definitive end of His movement. Peter's assertion that God "exalted" the one they "killed" (Acts 5:30) was a direct and scandalous accusation, challenging their authority and judgment. The concept of a "Prince" (Archēgos) would resonate with Jewish messianic expectations, though their understanding of Messiah was often political and military, not spiritual and redemptive in the way Peter presented Jesus. The offer of "repentance to Israel" was deeply significant, as it implied a turning away from their rejection of Jesus and a return to God through Him, a profound call to national spiritual renewal.
* **Key Themes:** Acts 5:31 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Acts and broader biblical theology. Foremost is the **sovereignty and exaltation of Jesus Christ**, demonstrating that God's plan for His Son transcends human opposition. Despite human rejection and crucifixion, God has vindicated and glorified Jesus, positioning Him as the ultimate authority. This ties into the theme of **divine reversal**, where what humans condemned, God approved and elevated. Another crucial theme is the **nature of salvation**, presented here as a divine gift encompassing both **repentance** and **forgiveness of sins**. This underscores that salvation is not merely human effort but a work initiated and enabled by God through Christ. Finally, the verse highlights the **continuity of God's covenant with Israel** even as the gospel begins to spread universally. The initial offer of repentance and forgiveness to "Israel" signifies God's faithfulness to His chosen people, while simultaneously laying the groundwork for the gospel's expansion to all nations, a theme found throughout [Acts](/acts/1 "The Book of Acts - The Early Church").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **exalted (Greek, _hypsóō'_):** From the root meaning "height," this verb signifies to elevate, lift up, or raise to a high position, literally or figuratively. In this context, it speaks of God's sovereign act of raising Jesus from the ignominy of the cross to a position of supreme honor, power, and authority at His right hand. It denotes a divine vindication and glorification, far beyond mere human recognition.
* **Prince (Greek, _archēgós'_):** This multifaceted term means a chief leader, author, pioneer, or founder. It implies not just a ruler, but one who initiates or begins something. As "Prince," Jesus is the originator and leader of salvation, the one who blazes the trail to eternal life, and the authoritative head of a new spiritual order. This title emphasizes His unique role as the one who brings humanity into a new relationship with God.
* **Saviour (Greek, _sōtḗr'_):** Derived from the verb "to save," this noun denotes a deliverer, preserver, or one who brings salvation. It highlights Jesus's essential function as the one who rescues humanity from the bondage and consequences of sin, offering deliverance, healing, and restoration. The combination with "Prince" underscores His authority to command and His power to rescue.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Him hath God exalted with his right hand":** This clause emphasizes the divine initiative and power behind Jesus's current status. "Him" (G5126 _toûton_) refers specifically to Jesus, the one whom the Sanhedrin had crucified. "God" (G2316 _theós_) is the ultimate agent, demonstrating His sovereign will and power. The phrase "with his right hand" (G1188 _dexiós_) is an anthropomorphism, symbolizing God's immense power, authority, and approval. It signifies that Jesus has been elevated to the highest position of honor and power alongside God Himself, fulfilling messianic prophecies of the Messiah's enthronement.
* **"[to be] a Prince and a Saviour":** This identifies the dual, essential roles that Jesus now holds as a result of His exaltation. As "Prince" (G747 _archēgós_), He is the authoritative leader, the pioneer who opens the way to salvation, and the founder of the new covenant community. As "Saviour" (G4990 _sōtḗr_), He is the one who delivers from sin, death, and judgment. These titles together encapsulate His complete authority and redemptive power, highlighting both His kingship and His atoning work.
* **"for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins":** This final clause states the gracious purpose of Jesus's exaltation. The verb "to give" (G1325 _dídōmi_) underscores that both repentance and forgiveness are divine gifts, not human achievements. "Repentance" (G3341 _metánoia_) signifies a change of mind, a turning from sin towards God, a fundamental reorientation of one's life. "Forgiveness" (G859 _áphesis_) refers to the remission or pardon of sins (G266 _hamartía_), the complete removal of guilt and its consequences. While specifically offered "to Israel" (G2474 _Israḗl_) as God's covenant people, this offer extends universally through the gospel, demonstrating God's desire for all to turn to Him and receive pardon.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several powerful literary devices. **Anthropomorphism** is evident in the phrase "with his right hand," which attributes a human characteristic (a hand) to God to convey His immense power, authority, and active involvement in Jesus's exaltation. This imagery is deeply rooted in Old Testament depictions of God's might. **Parallelism** is utilized in the pairing of "Prince and a Saviour" and "repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins." These parallel structures emphasize the comprehensive nature of Jesus's authority and the dual gifts He bestows. The titles "Prince" and "Saviour" also function as potent **symbolism**, encapsulating Jesus's royal authority and His redemptive work. The entire statement is a powerful **proclamation**, designed to convey absolute truth and challenge the listeners' existing beliefs, characteristic of Peter's bold and direct preaching style throughout Acts.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 5:31 is a theological cornerstone, revealing the divine order of salvation. It establishes that salvation, encompassing both the turning from sin (repentance) and the pardon of sin (forgiveness), is ultimately a gift from God, mediated through the exalted Christ. This challenges any notion of salvation as purely a human endeavor or a reward for moral effort. God's act of exalting Jesus signifies His complete approval of Christ's life, death, and resurrection, validating Him as the sole means of reconciliation with the Father. The verse beautifully intertwines Christ's authority ("Prince") with His redemptive work ("Saviour"), demonstrating that He is uniquely qualified and empowered to grant these indispensable gifts. It underscores the profound grace of God, who, despite humanity's rebellion, provides the very means by which we can return to Him and be cleansed.

* [Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Christ's Supreme Exaltation")
* [Luke 24:47](/luke/24-47 "Luke 24:47 - Repentance and Forgiveness Proclaimed")
* [Ephesians 1:7](/ephesians/1-7 "Ephesians 1:7 - Redemption Through His Blood")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 5:31 offers profound truths for personal reflection and practical application. It calls us to acknowledge the supreme authority of Jesus Christ, recognizing that His exaltation by God means His reign is absolute and His power is unmatched. For believers, this provides immense assurance: our salvation is rooted in God's sovereign act, not our fluctuating efforts. The fact that repentance and forgiveness are "given" by Christ reminds us that genuine transformation and pardon are divine gifts, prompting humility and reliance on His grace. This should inspire us to continually turn from sin and embrace the freedom of forgiveness. For those who have not yet submitted to Christ, the verse presents a clear invitation: the exalted Prince and Saviour stands ready to grant these essential gifts. It challenges us to examine our own lives: are we truly living in light of Christ's supreme authority, embracing the repentance He offers, and walking in the freedom of His forgiveness? Furthermore, it empowers us for witness, knowing that the message we proclaim is of a Christ who is able to deliver and transform.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding Jesus as both "Prince" and "Saviour" deepen your appreciation for His role in your life?**
* **If repentance and forgiveness are gifts from God, what does this imply about our human capacity to achieve them on our own?**
* **In what areas of your life do you need to embrace the "repentance" and "forgiveness" that Christ offers more fully?**
* **How does the Sanhedrin's opposition to Jesus, contrasted with God's exaltation of Him, encourage you when facing opposition for your faith?**

### FAQ
**Is repentance a gift from God, or something we initiate?**

Answer: Acts 5:31 clearly states that God exalted Jesus "for to give repentance." This indicates that repentance (G3341 _metánoia_), a change of mind leading to a change of direction, is fundamentally a divine gift, enabled by God's grace and the work of the Holy Spirit. While humans are called to repent and must respond in faith (as seen in [Acts 2:38](/acts/2-38 "Acts 2:38 - Peter's Call to Repentance")), this verse emphasizes that the very capacity and desire to turn from sin and toward God originate with Him. It's not something we can conjure up on our own power; rather, it is graciously extended through the exalted Christ, allowing us to respond to His call.

**Does "to Israel" mean this offer of repentance and forgiveness is only for Jews?**

Answer: While the immediate context of Peter's sermon is to the Jewish Sanhedrin and the people of Israel, the theological implications of Jesus's role as "Prince and Saviour" extend universally. Acts itself demonstrates the expansion of the gospel beyond Israel to the Gentiles (e.g., [Acts 10](/acts/10 "Acts 10 - Peter and Cornelius")). The initial offer to Israel underscores God's faithfulness to His covenant people, but the nature of Jesus's saving work is for all humanity. The gifts of repentance and forgiveness are available to "everyone who believes" (as seen in [Romans 10:9-13](/romans/10-9-13 "Romans 10:9-13 - Salvation for All Who Believe")). Therefore, while rooted in Israel's history, the offer is for all who respond to Christ.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 5:31 powerfully encapsulates the Christ-centered fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. The "Him" whom God exalted is Jesus of Nazareth, the promised Messiah, whose crucifixion was not the end but the necessary prelude to His glorification. As the "Prince" (G747 _archēgós_), Jesus fulfills the Old Testament prophecies of a coming King and Leader, but His kingship is uniquely spiritual, leading His people into a new covenant relationship with God. He is the "Author of life" (as Peter also states in [Acts 3:15](/acts/3-15 "Acts 3:15 - Jesus, the Author of Life")), the one who initiates and perfects our faith ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of Faith")). As "Saviour" (G4990 _sōtḗr_), He is the ultimate deliverer, whose atoning death on the cross secured the forgiveness of sins, a reality foreshadowed in the sacrificial system but fully realized in His once-for-all sacrifice ([Hebrews 9:22](/hebrews/9-22 "Hebrews 9:22 - Without the Shedding of Blood")). His exaltation "with His right hand" signifies His enthronement at the Father's side, where He now intercedes for His people ([Romans 8:34](/romans/8-34 "Romans 8:34 - Christ's Intercession")) and pours out the Holy Spirit ([Acts 2:33](/acts/2-33 "Acts 2:33 - The Spirit Poured Out")). Thus, through the exalted Christ, God sovereignly provides the very means for humanity to turn from sin and receive complete pardon, fulfilling His ancient promises and establishing the New Covenant in His Son's blood ([Luke 22:20](/luke/22-20 "Luke 22:20 - The New Covenant in His Blood")).

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 24:47

And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.

Acts 2:33

Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear.

Luke 2:11

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

Acts 11:18

When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.

1 John 4:14

¶ And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son [to be] the Saviour of the world.

Hebrews 2:10

¶ For it became him, for whom [are] all things, and by whom [are] all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.

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,