Acts 1:3

To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God:

To whom {G3739} also {G2532} he shewed {G3936} himself {G1438} alive {G2198} after {G3326} his {G846} passion {G3958} by {G1722} many {G4183} infallible proofs {G5039}, being seen {G3700} of them {G846}{G1223} forty {G5062} days {G2250}, and {G2532} speaking {G3004} of the things pertaining {G4012} to the kingdom {G932} of God {G2316}:

After his death he showed himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. During a period of forty days they saw him, and he spoke with them about the Kingdom of God.

After His suffering, He presented Himself to them with many convincing proofs that He was alive. He appeared to them over a span of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God.

to whom he also showed himself alive after his passion by many proofs, appearing unto them by the space of forty days, and speaking the things concerning the kingdom of God:

Commentary

Context

Acts 1:3 serves as a pivotal bridge between Luke's Gospel and the book of Acts. Written by Luke, this verse immediately follows the dedication to Theophilus, reminding the reader of the foundational events that precede the church's formation. It firmly establishes the reality of Jesus' post-resurrection appearances and teachings, setting the stage for the disciples' mission and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. This verse emphasizes the continuity of Jesus' ministry, even after His suffering and death.

Key Themes

  • The Certainty of Christ's Resurrection: The phrase "many infallible proofs" underscores the undeniable evidence of Jesus being truly alive after His crucifixion. This was not a spiritual vision but a physical, tangible reality, essential for strengthening the disciples' faith and validating their future testimony. The resurrection is the cornerstone of Christian belief, demonstrating Christ's victory over sin and death (1 Corinthians 15:4).
  • Jesus' Post-Resurrection Ministry and Teaching: For a significant period of "forty days," Jesus continued to appear to His disciples. During this time, He didn't just show Himself but actively taught them, consolidating their understanding of His mission and preparing them for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the Great Commission.
  • The Kingdom of God: Jesus' central message throughout His earthly ministry, and continued even after His resurrection, revolved around "the kingdom of God." This refers to God's sovereign rule and reign, both spiritual and ultimately physical, which Jesus inaugurated and which continues to expand through His church. His teachings prepared the disciples to understand their role in advancing this divine kingdom.

Linguistic Insights

  • "Passion": Derived from the Latin passio, meaning suffering. In this context, it specifically refers to Jesus' profound suffering, crucifixion, and death.
  • "Infallible proofs": The Greek word used here is tekmerion (τεκμήριον). It signifies a decisive, undeniable proof that leads to absolute certainty and cannot be refuted. This word emphasizes the objective and compelling nature of the evidence for Jesus' resurrection, leaving no room for doubt among those who witnessed it.

Practical Application

Acts 1:3 offers profound assurance and direction for believers today:

  • Foundation of Faith: This verse reminds us that Christian faith is grounded in historical reality, particularly the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This truth provides unwavering hope and confidence in God's power and promises.
  • Continued Learning and Growth: Just as Jesus continued to teach His disciples after His resurrection, we are called to continually grow in our understanding of God's Word and His purposes. This involves diligent study and application of biblical truths.
  • Focus on God's Kingdom: The emphasis on "the kingdom of God" challenges believers to align their lives with God's reign and priorities. It encourages us to seek His will first in all things (Matthew 6:33) and to participate actively in the ongoing mission of spreading the Gospel and seeing God's influence expand in the world.
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Cross-References

  • 1 Corinthians 15:5 (17 votes)

    And that he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve:

  • 1 Corinthians 15:7 (17 votes)

    After that, he was seen of James; then of all the apostles.

  • Acts 13:31 (12 votes)

    And he was seen many days of them which came up with him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are his witnesses unto the people.

  • John 20:26 (11 votes)

    ¶ And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: [then] came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace [be] unto you.

  • 1 John 1:1 (8 votes)

    ¶ That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life;

  • John 21:1 (7 votes)

    ¶ After these things Jesus shewed himself again to the disciples at the sea of Tiberias; and on this wise shewed he [himself].

  • John 21:14 (7 votes)

    This is now the third time that Jesus shewed himself to his disciples, after that he was risen from the dead.