That Christ should suffer, and that he should be the first that should rise from the dead, and should shew light unto the people, and to the Gentiles.

ACTS 26:23KJV
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Acts 26:23 (KJV)

What does Acts 26:23 mean?

Acts 26:23 says that the Messiah (Christ) was destined to suffer, to be the first to rise from the dead, and to bring light (understanding or revelation) both to the Jewish people and to non-Jews (Gentiles). This verse sums up the core message about Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection as a fulfillment of what was promised.

In this scene, Paul is speaking before King Agrippa, defending himself and explaining his faith. Paul emphasizes that what happened to Jesus was not a new or strange idea, but something rooted in the promises given to Israel. Paul’s claim is that Jesus’ suffering, resurrection, and message for all nations were always part of God’s plan, and that this message is for everyone, not just for Jews.

The Greek behind Acts 26:23

  • Χριστός (Christos): This word means "the Anointed One" or "Messiah." Paul is making it clear that he is talking about the promised deliverer from Jewish Scriptures.
  • πάσχω (paschō, "suffer"): The Greek word here means to undergo pain or hardship. Paul stresses that the Messiah’s suffering was expected, not a sign of failure.
  • ἀνάστασις (anastasis, "rise"): This word refers to rising from the dead. Paul calls Jesus the "first" (πρῶτος, prōtos) to rise, suggesting that others will follow in resurrection.
  • φῶς (phōs, "light"): This word means light in the sense of understanding or revelation. Paul says Jesus brings this light to both the Jewish people (λαός, laos) and the Gentiles (ἔθνη, ethnē), highlighting the universal scope of Jesus’ mission.

Why Acts 26:23 matters

  • Acts 26:23 clarifies that Jesus’ suffering and resurrection were not unexpected events, but were always part of the promises made in the Jewish Scriptures, which Paul is careful to point out to his Jewish and Gentile audience.
  • The verse highlights the inclusive nature of the message about Jesus: it is meant for both Jews and Gentiles, breaking down barriers and expanding the scope of God’s promise.
  • In the context of Paul’s defense, this verse shows that his teaching is not a betrayal of Jewish hope, but its fulfillment, which is a key point in understanding Paul’s mission and the early Christian movement.