Acts 13:37 (KJV)

What does Acts 13:37 mean?

Acts 13:37 states that the one whom God raised from the dead did not experience decay or bodily corruption. This verse highlights that Jesus, unlike others who died, was resurrected by God and his body did not undergo the normal process of decomposition.

In this passage, Paul is speaking to a synagogue audience in Antioch, explaining how Jesus’ resurrection sets him apart from King David and all others. Paul is making the point that while David died and his body decayed, Jesus was raised by God and did not see corruption, showing Jesus’ unique role in God’s plan.

The Greek behind Acts 13:37

• διαφθορά (G1312; diaphthora): This word means "corruption" or "decay," referring specifically to the physical decomposition of a body after death. Its use here emphasizes that Jesus’ resurrection was not just spiritual but physical, with his body preserved from decay.
• ἤγειρεν (G1453; ēgeiren): Translated as "raised again," this verb stresses the active role of God in bringing Jesus back to life. It highlights resurrection as a divine act, not something that happened naturally or by human means.

Why Acts 13:37 matters

• Acts 13:37 clarifies that the resurrection of Jesus was different from any other person’s death, including revered figures like David, because Jesus’ body did not decay.
• This verse connects to Paul’s larger argument that Jesus fulfills promises made in the Hebrew Scriptures, showing that he is the one God chose to defeat death.
• Understanding this verse helps clear up confusion about what early Christians meant by resurrection: it was a real, bodily event, not just a spiritual idea.