Acts 3:14 (KJV)

What does Acts 3:14 mean?

Acts 3:14 says that the people rejected Jesus, who is described as the Holy One and the Just, and instead asked for a murderer to be released to them. This verse highlights the choice made by the crowd to deny someone innocent and righteous in favor of someone guilty.

Peter is speaking to a crowd in Jerusalem, reminding them of what happened during Jesus’ trial before Pilate. Peter calls Jesus the "Holy One and the Just," titles that emphasize Jesus’ innocence and moral purity. The verse points out the seriousness of the crowd’s decision to choose the release of a criminal over the release of Jesus.

The Greek behind Acts 3:14

• ἅγιος (hagios, "Holy One"): This word means set apart or sacred, often used for someone uniquely belonging to God. By using this term, Peter is stressing Jesus’ special relationship with God.
• δίκαιος (dikaios, "Just"): This word means righteous or morally upright. Peter is underlining that Jesus was not only innocent of crime but also lived in complete righteousness.
• φονεύς (phoneus, "murderer"): This word refers specifically to someone who has committed murder. The contrast is sharp—Jesus, the innocent, was denied, while a known murderer was chosen.

Why Acts 3:14 matters

• Acts 3:14 clarifies that the rejection of Jesus was not just a misunderstanding but a conscious choice to deny someone innocent and holy.
• The verse emphasizes the gravity of the crowd’s decision, making clear the moral contrast between Jesus and the released criminal.
• This statement by Peter sets up his call for repentance in the verses that follow, showing why the people needed forgiveness.