Commentary on Acts 5:31

Verse Text: "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." (Acts 5:31, KJV)

Introduction

The significance of Acts 5:31 lies in its proclamation of the exaltation of Jesus Christ and His dual role as both Prince and Savior. This verse encapsulates the core message of the Gospel—Jesus' lordship and His redemptive work. The following commentary synthesizes the insights of esteemed public domain biblical scholars Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke.

The Exaltation of Christ

According to Matthew Henry, the phrase “Him hath God exalted” reflects the divine acknowledgment and restoration of Jesus after His earthly ministry. Henry emphasizes that this exaltation is not merely a position of honor but is directly related to His authority to enact salvation and governance. As believers, understanding Jesus' exalted state is crucial as it assures them of His power to accomplish salvation.

Albert Barnes adds that the phrase indicates God’s active role in promoting Jesus to a place of supreme authority. He notes that the "right hand" symbolizes power and favor, aligning with the cultural understanding of honor in the biblical context. This exaltation speaks to the ultimate authority Jesus holds, not only in heaven but also as the active agent of salvation on earth.

Adam Clarke echoes these sentiments, focusing on the implications of such exaltation. He argues that Christ's elevation is a necessary component of His work as Savior, as it underscores His qualifications and fitness for mediating between God and humanity. Clarke encourages believers to see this as a transformative truth that impacts their faith and practice.

The Role of Jesus as Prince and Saviour

The dual titles of Jesus in this verse—“Prince” and “Saviour”—hold significant theological weight. As stated by Matthew Henry, the title of "Prince" implies governance and leadership. It conveys that Jesus is not only a rescuer but also a ruler who establishes His kingdom. Henry remarks that this kingdom is characterized by a gracious rule, one that invites repentance and transformation rather than coercion.

Albert Barnes comments on the implications of Jesus being a "Saviour." Salvation is presented as a comprehensive act that encompasses forgiveness of sins and the granting of repentance. He highlights that, through Christ, believers receive not only pardon but also empowerment for change—a transformative act that aligns them with God’s purpose. This reflection urges believers to confront their own need for ongoing repentance, viewing it as a gift from God facilitated by Christ's work.

Adam Clarke further explores the connection between Christ's titles and his mission. He emphasizes that these titles encapsulate the broader theological narrative of the New Testament — salvation through submission to Christ’s lordship. Clarke invites readers to appreciate how this duality fully represents the heart of the Gospel, where Jesus' rule translates into practical acts of mercy and redemption.

Repentance and Forgiveness: Gifts from God

The latter part of the verse reveals that Jesus' mission includes offering "repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins.” Matthew Henry notes that this provision is particularly directed toward Israel, reflecting God’s covenant faithfulness. Henry articulates that the offer of repentance is not merely a command but a divine gift, signifying God's desire for reconciliation with His people.

Albert Barnes elaborates that repentance is essential for the reception of forgiveness. He interprets this as a call for introspection among believers, encouraging a heart posture of humility and acceptance of God’s grace. Barnes encourages pastors and theologians to emphasize the necessity of preaching the full Gospel that includes both repentance and forgiveness — a call to action for the Church.

Adam Clarke provides insight into the necessity of repentance as a precursor to forgiveness, mentioning that true repentance leads to a transformed life. Clarke discusses various facets of repentance, including sorrow for past sins and a resolute commitment to change. He highlights that the act of repenting is a vital aspect of the believer’s journey, reflecting an active engagement with God's grace and mercy.

Theological Implications

Navigating through Acts 5:31, several key theological implications arise:

• Christology: This verse underscores the significance of Christ's dual nature as both sovereign ruler and savior, vital for understanding the relationship between Jesus and His followers.
• Soteriology: It emphasizes the necessity of repentance and the assurance of forgiveness, foundational elements in the doctrine of salvation.
• Eschatology: The exaltation of Christ points towards the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan, inviting believers to anticipate the culmination of God's kingdom on earth.

Conclusion

Acts 5:31 is a profound verse that encapsulates the essence of the New Covenant through Christ. By analyzing the insights from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, one can appreciate how this verse delineates the transformative power of faith in Jesus as both a Prince and a Saviour. For pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars, it serves as a rich text for understanding the depth of God’s grace and the call to repentance and forgiveness, urging believers to live in the reality of Christ's lordship and the redemption available through Him.