Jesus and the Resurrection in Acts
In the book of Acts, Jesus and his resurrection are mentioned in nearly every sermon and chapter, with Jesus's resurrection being a central theme of the entire book woven throughout the entire narrative. The book itself is essentially the story of Jesus continuing his work through the Holy Spirit and his apostles, with the resurrection as the validating event.
Where Jesus and his resurrection are mentioned
The following key passages illustrate the persistent focus on these themes.
Chapters 1–7 (In Jerusalem)
Acts 1:2–3, 9–11: The book begins with the resurrected Jesus appearing to his disciples before his ascension and promising his return.
Acts 2:24, 31–32: Peter's Pentecost sermon declares that God raised Jesus and connects this to prophecy.
Acts 3:15, 26: Peter preaches that God raised Jesus, the "Author of Life," whom the Israelites killed.
Acts 4:2, 10, 33: Peter and John testify to the Sanhedrin about healing in the name of the resurrected Jesus, and the apostles continue preaching the resurrection.
Acts 5:30: Before the Sanhedrin, Peter states that the God of their ancestors raised Jesus, whom they killed.
Acts 7:55–56: The dying Stephen sees a vision of the resurrected and ascended Jesus.
Chapters 8–12 (In Judea and Samaria)
Acts 9:1–9, 17, 20: The resurrected Jesus appears to Saul (Paul), leading to his conversion.
Acts 10:40–42: Peter tells Cornelius that God raised Jesus on the third day and appointed him as judge.
Chapters 13–28 (To the ends of the earth)
Acts 13:30–31, 37: Paul preaches in Antioch that God raised Jesus to fulfill prophecy and prevent decay.
Acts 17:3, 18, 31–32: In Athens, Paul preaches Jesus and the resurrection, stating God proved judgment by raising him from the dead, which garners mixed reactions.
Acts 23:6: Paul declares he is on trial concerning the hope of the resurrection of the dead.
Acts 24:21: Paul again states his offense was proclaiming the "resurrection of the dead".
Acts 26:23: Paul explains to King Agrippa that the Messiah would suffer and be the first to rise from the dead, bringing light to all people.
The significance of Jesus and his resurrection in Acts
The constant focus on Jesus and his resurrection in Acts highlights key aspects of early Christian belief:
A historical fact: The resurrection is presented as a real event with eyewitnesses.
Divine validation: It proves Jesus is the Messiah and Son of God.
The basis for salvation: The resurrection is linked to forgiveness of sins and eternal life.
Fulfillment of prophecy: The apostles show how Jesus's suffering and resurrection fulfill Old Testament prophecies.
The Source of the Holy Spirit: Jesus's ascension after the resurrection allows for the sending of the Holy Spirit.
