The Book of Acts
Lesson Number 17
TRANSLATION LEGEND: ALT = Analytical-Literal Translation (2005), AMPLIFIED = Amplified Bible (1965), ASV = American Standard Version (1901), BBE=Bible in Basic English (1949), DRA = Douay-Rheims (1899), ERV = English Revised Version (1885), ESV = English Stand Version (2001), GNB = Good News (1966), GWN = God’S Word (1995), IE = International English, ISV = International Standard Version (1967), JPS = Jewish Publication Society (1917), KJV = King James Version (1611), L.ITV = Literal Translation of the Bible ((1976), LIVING = Living Bible (1971), MKJV = Modern KJV (1962), MONTGOMERY = Montgomery’s New Testament (2001), MRD = Peshitta-James Murdock Translation (1852), NAB = New American Bible (2002), NASB = New American Standard Bible (1977), NAU = New American Standard Bible (1995), NIB = New International Bible, NIV = New International Version (1984), NJB = New Jerusalem Bible (1985), NKJV = New King James Version (1979), NLT =New Living Translation (1996), NRSV = New Revised Standard Version (1989), PHILLIPS = J B Phillips New Testament (1962), PNT = BISHOP’S New Testament (1595), RSV = Revised Standard Version (1952), TNK = JPS Tanakj (1985), Webster = The Webster Bible (1833),WEYMOUTH = Weymouth’s New Testament (1903), WILLIAMS = William’s New Testament (1937), TYNDALE = Tyndale’s Bible (1526), WYCLIFFE = Wycliffe New Testament (1382), YLT =Young’s Literal Translation (1862).
---------- Lexicon and Bible Translation Codes with Identification -----------
LEXICON LEGEND: FRIEBERG = Friberg Lexicon, UBS = UBS Lexicon, LOUW-NIDA = Louw-Nida Lexicon, LIDDELL SCOTT = Liddell Scott Lexicon, THAYER = Thayer’s Greek Lexicon,
LEH = LEH Lexicon, GINGRICH = Gingrich Lexicon
DISCLAIMER: The quoting of other translations is not to be taken as a condoning of them. My purpose is rather to show the remarkable diversity, and sometimes outright contradictions that exist among these various versions of Scripture. Our understanding of the Word of God ultimately depends upon our comprehension of the Lord Himself and His eternal purpose. Where this understanding is not present, we are shut up to scholasticism and conjecture, both of which are of the world, not of God.
PETER RESPONDS TO THE LEADERS
4:8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel, 9 If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole; 10 Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. 11 This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. 12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. 13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus. 14 And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it.” (Acts 4:8-14)
INTRODUCTION
Peter and John have been confronted by Jewish leaders from the Temple: the priests, the captain of the Temple guard, and the Sadducees. They have been asked concerning the power or authority under which they operated. This had particular regard to the healing of the lame man – a man with whom all the people were acquainted.
NO WORLDLY HELP AVAILABLE
Peter and John do not have an organization to represent them. There is no help group that has been set up to assist those oppressed by the authorities. What is happening to them is outside of the provisions of Roman law. They can make no appeal to Temple precedent, and the rights of men who heal people lame from birth. This is an occasion in which faith is their only asset. They cannot depend upon oratorical skills, and rely upon certain Temple friendships that have been developed over the years. There is no known defender of Temple rights, or some individual or group to champion the exercise of public religious liberties. There are no friends in the Roman senate who can intervene for Peter and John, negating the influence of the religious leaders. All of the supposed provisions for social and individual human rights of an imagined Christian nation are non-existent at this time.
FELLOWSHIP WITH CHRIST IS REQUIRED TO DO HIS WORK
What Peter and John do now will depend wholly upon the fellowship they have with Christ, and whether or not they are suitable vessels through whom He can speak and work. Their only effective resources will come through their faith. Of course, this is the manner of the Kingdom, and no work for God is ever done any other way. However, because of the prominence of carnal religion, scarcely a Christian leader is ever brought to the point where these things are clearly seen. There is too much fleshly help that is held out as available to opposed and oppressed believers.
For those who are working for the Lord – doing the real work of the Kingdom – a wholly different set or circumstances exist. If they are close to Christ, they will be sustained. If they are not close to Him, they will not be sustained. If they are abiding in Christ, the resources that are required will be ministered to them. If they are not abiding in Him, these resources will not be given to them. If they are laboring together with Christ, they will be granted what is necessary for those labors. If they are not laboring together with Christ, having rather adopted their own agenda, they will not be given such necessities. If their faith is strong, they will stand. If their faith is not strong, they will not stand. If they fear God more than men, He will come to their aid. If they fear men, they will fall into a snare. If they are holding fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope, they will not be intimidated. If they are not holding these fast, they will be shaken by opposition.
The work of Christ cannot be done apart from an immediate association with Him by faith. It is not so much that this is owing to a moral law, so that it is simply wrong to attempt to do the work of God apart from Christ. Rather, it is that it is impossible to do God’s work apart from a lively affiliation with His Son. The body of Christ, whether individual members or as a whole, cannot function acceptably or effectively apart from its Head. All nourishment and required aptitudes are ministered “from the Head” as the members are holding to Him. As it is written: “And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God” (Col 2:19).
If the connection between the members and the Head is not being maintained, the work being done will fall to the ground. The work simply cannot be done without the involvement of the One for whom it is being done. Further, that involvement can be no stronger than the faith through which it is realized.
THE SERIOUSNESS OF NOT FEEDING THE FLOCK OF GOD
Right here the seriousness of not feeding the flock of God becomes more evident. Where edification is not occurring, the people are actually becoming unsuitable vessels for the honor of God. Importing praise leaders, motivational gurus, and organizational experts will not make the people usable, or “meet for the Master’s use, and prepared unto every good work” (2 Tim 2:21). A people who are not themselves being blessed by the Lord cannot, in any sense, become a source of genuine blessing to others.
There are “good works” that God has “before ordained that we should walk in them” (Eph 2:10). Our involvement in those works, however, requires men to be “created in Christ Jesus.” That creation is “unto,” or in order to, the doing of the specified pre-ordained works. I am not sure that a suitable defense can be made for these being generic work’s that are only general in nature, and are common to all saints. To be sure, there are works like that, described as “doing good unto all men, specially those of the household of faith” (Gal 6:10). However, it seems to me that being “prepared unto every good work” carries the idea of specificity – a particular deed at a particular time, and regarding a particular people.
THE REQUIREMENT FOR HOLINESS
All believers are required to be holy – and the requirement is declared with unusual clarity. “But as He which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy” (1 Pet 1:15-16). “Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children” (Eph 5:1). “For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness” (1 Thess 4:7). “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord” (Heb 12:14).
In Christ God has provided all of the resources required to be holy in every aspect of our lives. There is really only one basic reason for a professing Christian to lack holiness – self interests have taken the precedence over the will of the Lord. This condition is a contradiction of new creatureship (2 Cor 5:17). It belies any claim to newness of life (Rom 6:4). A lack of holiness is opposed to a condition in which the stony heart has been removed and a heart of flesh has been given (Ezek 36:26).
There are consequences for refusing to be holy. In a nutshell, those results may be summarized like this: all of the benefits associated with salvation are forfeited. Godlike qualities cannot be poured into un-godlike people.
I know that much of what is paraded as the work of the Lord fails to make these associations. The vitality and effectiveness of spiritual life have been upstaged by the traditions and institutions of men. Certain organizers and motivators, moved by the prevailing ignorance that is resident in the professed church, have crept in to market their wares, and they have been very well received.
But let me get more to the point of these words. I am saying that the account of Peter and John answering the Jewish council cannot fit into the modern view of the church, giving answers, and standing up for Christ. They conducted themselves in a manner that is at total variance with many of the ways that are being taught within the professed church. You sense in their reply that they are not placing a high value on their own lives, being accepted by their peers, or appearing successful before men – all of which rank very high in the institutional church. They are keenly aware of the sharp conflict between flesh and Spirit, this world and the world to come, and life and death. They are not trying to bridge the gap between the spiritually minded and the carnally minded. Their aim is not to impress men or be approved by them.
PETER, FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT
“ 4:8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel.”
Concerning the healing of the man lame from birth, Peter and John have been asked, “By what power, or by what name have ye done this?” (4:7). Peter will now answer this question. He will not do so with his own welfare in mind, but will speak for the glory of the Lord, for he is His witness.
PETER, FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT
“Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them . . .” Other versions read, “being full of the Holy Spirit,” BBE “because he was filled with the Holy Spirit,” GWN “full of the Holy Ghost,” PNT “having been filled with the Holy Spirit,” YLT and “[because he was] filled with [and controlled by] the Holy Spirit. AMPLIFIED
This is now the second time a point is made of the servants of God being “filled with the Spirit” (2:4; 4:8). The point of the text does not seem to be that Peter became filled at this time, but that he had been filled previously, and the filling had remained. What is recorded of Peter must be perceived as him speaking through the Holy spirit, and not through the flesh.
1. His preaching on the day of Pentecost (2:14-37).
2. His answer to the inquirers on the day of Pentecost (2:37-40).
3. The “apostles’ doctrine” in which the early believers continued (2:42).
4. Peter’s words to the man born lame (3:6).
5. Peter’s words to the people who noted the miracle of the healing of the lame man, and came running to them (3:12-26).
What Does It Mean to Be
Filled with the Spirit?
What is involved in a person being “filled with the Holy Spirit.” Is this an experience that throws one into a subconscious state, where the mind and the will are basically unproductive – a state where the person becomes like a robot, speaking independently of the involvement of the human spirit?
First, the “Filler” is the Lord Jesus. He is the One who determines the recipient of the Holy Spirit, then sends Him to the individual. There is no automatic process involved in being filled with the Spirit that excludes the involvement of the One who gives the Spirit. Therefore, in his explanation of the initial pouring forth of the Holy Spirit, with which individuals were filled, Peter declared, “Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, He hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear” (Acts 2:33).
Second, being filled with the Holy Spirit involves the sanctification of the spiritual qualities of men – the heart, soul, mind, and strength. This, in turn, impacts upon the person’s expressive capabilities. They are able to think the thoughts of God, speak His Word, and do His works. All of this is done consciously and perceptively – with the “soul.” Unless those hearing and beholding the expressions of those filled with the Spirit are privy to the working of the Lord, there is nothing about the expressions that associate them with the Holy Spirit. They appear to the uninitiated to be human expressions. While they are unusual, and staggering to consider, those expressions are viewed as being purely human expressions. It is only when faith comes, and the individual is illuminated, that they can be recognized as the working of the Lord. All of this will become very evident in our text.
The book of Acts contains a number of references to people being filled with the Holy Spirit.
➪ The disciples were “filled” on the day of Pentecost (2:4).
➪ Peter’s defense in this text was made when he was “filled with the Holy Spirit” (4:8).
➪ All of the disciples after an insightful prayer was made to God (4:31).
➪ The first deacons were required to be “full of the Holy Spirit” (6:3).
➪ Stephen is said to have been “full... of the Holy Spirit” (6:5).
➪ When Stephen was being stoned to death he was said to have been “full of the Holy Spirit” (7:55).
➪ Ananias told Saul of Tarsus he was sent to him in order that he might be “filled with the Holy Spirit” (9:17).
➪ Barnabas is described as a “good man, and full of the Holy Spirit” (11:24).
➪ When Paul dealt harshly with Elymas the sorcerer, he was “filled with the Holy Spirit” (13:9).
➪ The disciples at Iconium were said to have been “filled with the Holy Spirit” (13:52).
Peter will now speak the mind of the Lord. His words will reflect Divine purpose and the will of the Lord. There will be no element of “flesh” in them – no worldly agenda or ambitions. They will fit the description Paul gave the Thessalonians: “For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe” (1 Thess 2:13).
YE RULERS OF THE PEOPLE, AND ELDERS OF ISRAEL
“ . . . Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel.” Other versions read, “rulers of the people and men of authority,” BBE “princes of the people and ancients,” DOUAY “rulers and leaders of the people,” GWN “rulers of the people and Elders of the house of Israel,” MRD and “Rulers of the people and members of the council (the Sanhedrin).” AMPLIFIED
Previously, with regard to the crucifixion of Jesus, Peter had charged the leaders of the people with ignorance: “And now, brethren, I wot that through ignorance ye did it, as did also your rulers” (Acts 3:17). At that time, the leaders did not appear to be present. Now, however, they are not only present, but are attempting to establish themselves as being the judges of Peter and John. Peter is not intimidated by this circumstance. He is filled with the Spirit, and will therefore speak the mind of the Lord on this matter. Here we will see how the Lord addresses leaders who have walked in ignorance.
We also learn from this text that rulers and leaders are held in account for their deeds. In this world, men imagine that leadership puts them beyond the scrutinizing eye. But this is not the case at all. Just as surely as servants are held responsible for properly serving, so leaders are held accountable for leading correctly. No position puts a person beyond the circumference of judgment – particularly the judgment of the Lord Jesus Christ.
The prophets declared the Messiah would be noted for righteous judgment.
➪ GOVERNING WITH A LOVE FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS, AND A HATRED FOR WICKEDNESS. “Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: the sceptre of thy kingdom is a right sceptre. Thou lovest righteousness, and hatest wickedness: therefore God, thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows” (Psa 45:6-7; Heb 1:9).
➪ HE WILL JUDGE RIGHTEOUSLY AND REPROVE WITH EQUITY. “But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek of the earth . . .” (Isa 11:4).
➪ HE WILL REIGN IN RIGHTEOUSNESS AND RULE IN JUDGMENT. “Behold, a king shall reign in righteousness, and princes shall rule in judgment” (Isa 32:1).
➪ HE WILL EXECUTE JUDGMENT AND JUSTICE. “Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth” (Jer 23:5).
➪ HE WILL EXECUTE JUDGEMENT AND RIGHTEOUSNESS. “In those days, and at that time, will I cause the Branch of righteousness to grow up unto David; and He shall execute judgment and righteousness in the land” (Jer 33:15).
When Jesus walked among men, He held religious leaders in strict account for their devious manners. He rebuked the scribes and Pharisees severely (Matt 23:13-36). The lawyers also were subject to His righteous scrutiny (Lk 11:46-52). He rebuffed the Sadducees, telling them they erred because they did not know the Scriptures or the power of God (Matt 22:23-32).
This is a Divine characteristic that we do well to remember. It is said of God, “He hath prepared His throne for judgment” (Psa 9:7). And again, “Justice and judgment are the habitation of His throne” (Psa 89:14). And again, “righteousness and judgment are the habitation of His throne” (Psa 97:2). It was prophesied of the Messiah that he would order the Kingdom “to establish it with judgment and with justice” (Isa 9:7). Isaiah also saw the coming Savior “judging, and seeking judgment, and hasting righeousness” (Isa 16:5).
Now Jesus, through the Holy Spirit, will speak to the Jewish council – the priests, the captain of the Temple, the Sadducees and others who had convened to judge His apostles. While the circumstances appear to indicate that Peter and John were being examined and judged, it was really their critics who were now on trial.
IF WE ARE BEING EXAMINED
“ 9 If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole”
Peter will clear the air of the fog of vain tradition, clarifying the real issue, and shedding light upon what has been done in the Temple courts. He will not subject himself to the analysis of these men, or pretend as though their judgment was anything but wrong.
IF WE ARE BEING EXAMINED
“ If we this day be examined . . .” Other versions read, “are judged,” NKJV “are on trial today,” NASB “are being called to account today,” NIV “are questioned today,” NRSV “called upon to answer,” DARBY “for as much as we this day are examined,” GENEVA “today you are cross-examining us,” GWN “if we are judged by you this day,” MRD and “If we are being put on trial [here] today and examined.” AMPLIFIED
Peter cuts straight to the heart of the matter. A naive person might have imagined that the council was asking an honest question . But Peter knew that was not the case. Even though Peter and John were the servants of the Lord, this council was examining them as though they were under their authority. It reminds me of Paul’s response to certain in Corinth who took it upon themselves to examine him. “But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged of you, or of man's judgment: yea, I judge not mine own self” (1 Cor 4:3).
The word “examined” comes from a word meaning “investigate, examine, inquire into, scrutinize, sift, question,” THAYER “hold a preliminary hearing, cross-examine, investigate, interrogate,” FRIBERG “sit in judgment, call to account.” UBS As used here, the examination was not an honest one. It was not an effort to establish the truth of a matter. Rather, the council was called because of the conflict of what Peter and John were preaching with the position of the leaders – particularly the Sadducees. Actually, Peter and John were already considered guilty of unacceptable conduct. This caucus was nothing more than an attempt to justify that conclusion.
THIS GOOD DEED
“ . . . of the good deed done to the impotent man . . .” Other versions read, “a good deed done to a helpless man,” NKJV “a benefit done to a sick man,” NASB “an act of kindness shown to a cripple,” NIV “good deed done to someone who was sick,” NRSV “a good work done to a man who was ill,” BBE “good deed done to a disabled man,” CSB “good deed done to an infirm man,” DARBY “the good we did for a crippled man,” GWN “the good deed to the ailing man,” YLT “the benefit conferred on a man helplessly lame,” WEYMOUTH and “a good deed done to benefit a feeble (helpless) cripple,” AMPLIFIED
At once, Peter shines the light on the nature of the work that had been done. A man who had been crippled from the moment he was born had been thoroughly healed, and was standing before them in perfect health. This court had referred to this good work as “this”: “By what power, or by what name, have ye done this?” (4:7). Every version reads the same way: “this.”
Peter will not submit to such a demeaning reference to the working of the Lord. He will refer to it in the proper manner: “the good deed,” “benefit done,” NASB “act of kindness,” NIV and “benefit conferred.” WEYMOUTH This was one of those “good works” that had been ordained of old, to be done by Peter and John (Eph 2:10).
In confronting His critics, it was also Jesus’ manner to more precisely define what was being done. After calling for a man with a withered hand to “Stand forth” in the local synagogue, Jesus addressed His opponents. “ Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath days, or to do evil? to save life, or to kill?” (Mark 3:4). Another time, when Jesus had healed a woman who had been bowed over with a spirit of infirmity for eighteen years, He faced an indignant ruler of the synagogue. Heartlessly this pretentious ruler said, “There are six days in which men ought to work: in them therefore come and be healed, and not on the sabbath day” (Luke 13:14). Jesus responded with these words, “The Lord then answered him, and said, Thou hypocrite, doth not each one of you on the sabbath loose his ox or his ass from the stall, and lead him away to watering? And ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan hath bound, lo, these eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the Sabbath day?” (Luke 13:15-16). Another time, when the Jews took of stones to kill Jesus, He challenged them by saying, “Many good works have I showed you from my Father; for which of those works do ye stone Me?” (John 10:32).
The people of God do well to culture a godly manner of referring to what the Lord has done. When facing questions about our life in Christ Jesus, let us be swift to call it what it is: “newness of life,” “born again,” “begotten of God,” the “new creation,” etc. Let us never speak in such a manner as to confuse darkness and light, or life and death. Well did Isaiah say, “Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!” (Isa 5:20).
BY WHAT MEANS
“ . . . by what means he is made whole” Other versions read, “how this man has been made well,” NASB “how he was healed,” NIV “you want to know how he was made well,” GWN “Are you asking us who made him well?” IE “as to how this man was cured,” WEYMOUTH and “by what means this man has been restored to health.” AMPLIFIED
Again, Peter speaks with wisdom and godly care. The Spirit of God is in him, sanctifying both his mind and his heart. What his judges have referred to as “this,” Peter refers to as the man being “made whole.” He will now testify to the “means” by which this man was “made whole.” That is not the way in which the council preferred to state the case, but Peter clearly defines the circumstance before declaring precisely how it was produced.
In my judgment, a severe weakness exists in the modern church when it comes to defining matters. Too often the jargon of the world is used, and that reduces, if not altogether removes, any need for appealing to the Word of God. It also excludes Divine power.
BE IT KNOWN UNTO YOU
“ 10a Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth . . . ”
The confidence with which Peter speaks will be very apparent. It is the assurance that proceeds from faith, and the unwavering persuasion of the truth concerning Jesus Christ. As Jesus had promised, it was given to Peter at that very hour what he should say: “But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak. For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you” (Matt 10:19-20). Yet, Peter does not speak as a sort of robot. It is apparent that he knows what he is saying and is speaking with great personal confidence. That is what real faith does for a person.
BE IT KNOWN UNTO YOU ALL
“Be it known unto you all . . . ” Other versions read, “Let it be known to you all,” NKJV “then know this,” NIV “Take note, all of you,” BBE “You . . . must understand,” GWN “all of you . . . should know,” NAB “Let me clearly state to all of you,” NLT “We want all of you . . . to know,” IE “Let it be known and understood by all of you,” AMPLIFIED and “it is high time that all of you . . . knew.” PHILLIPS
Those who are sent forth by God to speak a word, generally have a compelling desire to be understood. It is true that some of God’s messengers were told to speak to people who would not understand. That condition, however, constituted a sort of trial, because it is not a normal situation. Thus Ezekiel was told, “And thou shalt speak my words unto them, whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear: for they are most rebellious. But thou, son of man, hear what I say unto thee; Be not thou rebellious like that rebellious house: open thy mouth, and eat that I give thee” (Ezek 2:7-8).
In this case, Peter is not rebellious, even though he is standing before his critics. He will speak boldly and call upon the council to comprehend what he says. “Be it known!” Here something that is not to be hidden. It is a public word, and it is to be spoken. This is what God told Ezekiel to say to Israel – “be it known unto you” (Ezek 36:32). It is what Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego said to Nebuchadnezzar when they refused to bow before his idol – “be it known unto thee” (Dan 3:18). It is what Paul declared to those in a synagogue in Antioch of Pisidia when he announced that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins was being preached – “be it known unto you” (Acts 13:38). During the close of his ministry, these are the words Paul spoke to some Jews when he boldly announced the salvation of God was being sent to the Gentiles – “be it known therefore unto you” (Acts 28:28).
We also see in this expression an essential aspect of the Kingdom of God. It is an economy of understanding and spiritual knowledge – not of raw emotion of feeling. There is a segment of the Christian community who teaches that utterances that are not understood are profitable, and even designed to build the faith of those who speak them. Such utterances cannot be preceded by, “Be it known unto you all.”
AND TO ALL THE PEOPLE OF ISRAEL
“ . . . and to all the people of Israel . . .” One version reads “the whole house of Israel.” AMPLIFIED The others all read the same – “people of Israel.”
This word was not for the council alone. Peter is saying that his answer to the inquiry of his pretentious judges is not for them alone, but for all the people of Israel – all of the covenanted people. His words would be tailored for the group before him, but would not be limited to them. The promises pertained to all the house of Israel, and Peter knew it (Rom 9:3). Concerning the New Covenant, God has never made promises to only a segment of the people who would be accepted in Christ Jesus. Therefore, Peter addresses all of the leaders and all of the people of Israel. Earlier, on the day of Pentecost, he also said “the promise” was to “all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call” (Acts 2:39).
The Gospel of Christ, and all things relating to it, is tailored for everyone – “every creature” (Mk 16:15). It addresses the needs that are common among men, and announces a resolution to a universal dilemma. Ponder what Peter has offered thusfar.
➪ The remission of sins (2:38a).
➪ The gift of the Holy Spirit (2:38b).
➪ Sins blotted out (3:19a).
➪ Times of refreshing (3:19b).
➪ God will send Jesus to them (3:20).
➪ Jesus sent to bless you (3:26a).
➪ Turning away every one from their iniquities (3:26b).
These are all benefits for all of those participating in the New Covenant.
BY THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST OF NAZARETH
“ . . . that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth . . . ” Other versions read, “in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth,” BBE “because of the power of Jesus Christ from Nazareth,” GWN “by the powerful name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene,” NLT “in the name and power of Jesus from Nazareth, the Messiah,” LIVING “by the authority of Jesus of Nazareth,” IE “through the name of Jesus the Anointed, the Nazarene,” WEYMOUTH “in the name and through the power and authority of Jesus Christ of Nazareth,” AMPLIFIED and “through the power of the name of Jesus of Nazareth.” GNB
The expression “the name of Jesus of Nazareth” is pregnant with meaning. I have never been fully satisfied with “the name of” being equivalent to “by the authority of.” It is true that “all authority” in heaven and earth has been given to the Lord Jesus (Matt 28:18). Peter, however, mentions the name of “Jesus Christ of Nazareth.” This is not the name by which Jesus is known in heaven. It is rather the name by which He was known particularly among the Jews, and those who were close to them – as Cornelius. The phrase is used seventeen times in Scripture (Matt 26:71; Mk 1:24; 10:47; 14:67; 16:6; Lk 4:34; 18:37; 24:19; John 1:45; 18:5,7; 19:19; Acts 2:22; 6:14; 10:38; 22:6; 26:9). He is referred to as “Jesus Christ of Nazareth” in Acts 3:6 and 4:10, and “Jesus the prophet of Nazareth” in Matthew 21:11.
The “name” is the repository into which what has been revealed of a person is poured. It stands for everything that is known about that person. In this case, there are certain things that have been tied to the name “Jesus” – the One came from Nazareth. These are things that had an impact in heaven as well as upon the earth. Upon earth, His human identity was established among men as “Jesus of Nazareth.” He was noted for being a spokesman for God – a “prophet, mighty in deed and word” (Lk 24:19). He was also noted for His deeds – “mighty works” (Matt 14:2; Mk 6:2). Nature yielded to Him, the wind and sea obeying Him (Mk 4:41). In all of these things, He was, in a sense, gaining a name.
But never was the name of Jesus more prominent that when He was exalted in heaven. As it is written, “Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given Him a name which is above every name: that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth” (Phil 2:9-10). Again, speaking of the presence of Jesus in heaven, it is written, “ . . . the working of His mighty power, which He wrought in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead, and set Him at His own right hand in the heavenly places, far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: and hath put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be the head over all things to the church” (Eph 1:19-22).
Earlier in human history, it was revealed that “the heavens do rule” (Dan 4:26). It has always been true that God “doeth according to His will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay His hand, or say unto Him, What doest Thou?” (Dan 4:35). That is the way it has always been! It has always been true that God’s counsel stands, and He does all of His pleasure. If He wants Adam and Eve in the Garden, He places them there. If He does not want them there, He expels them. If He does not want the building of the tower of Babel to continue, it will be stopped. If He no longer wants His earth to be contaminated by Sodom and Gomorrah, He will remove them. If He wants Joseph on the throne of Egypt, He will place him there. If He is displeased with King Nebuchadnezzar, He will remove him from the throne. In every way, and in ever sense, “the heavens do rule.”
Now, the exalted Christ is heaven’s Ruler. So far as men are concerned, He is “the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords” (1 Tim 6:15). This is the very Jesus the Jewish leaders, before whom Peter and John are standing, rejected and “killed” (Acts 3:15). Now, two of Jesus’ men come into the Temple and do a work that no priest or Sadducee was ever able to do. They did not engage in a battle with the forces of evil, but simply told a man afflicted from birth to “rise up and walk” (Acts 3:6). The disease yielded to the word of these men because of the One for whom they spoke. They were not speaking a mere formula when they said, “In the name of Jesus of Nazareth.” If they had not been connected with that Jesus by faith, nothing would have happened.
It was Jesus who actually did the work, but He did it through vessels who were “meet for the Master’s use, and prepared unto every good work” (2 Tim 2:21). Further, if Jesus was not everything for which His name stands, the man would not have got up and walked – it would have been impossible.
However, none of this is known by those who have taken upon themselves to examine Peter and John. Therefore, Peter will spell it out for them, confirming how this was done. He will not depend upon them going home and thinking about it, but will declare the truth of the matter, regardless of whether or not it is received.
HERE IS WHAT YOU DID, AND HERE IS WHAT GOD DID
“ 10b . . . whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole.”
Fortunately, Peter had not been trained in the theology of our time. He will not say the Jews really were not responsible for Jesus’ death – that it was something for which all humanity was responsible. That might appear a wise course to take for those who are battling against racial prejudice. However, when men commit unusual sins, it is not to be swept under the rug as though such sins are common – or that all sin carries the same weight.
WHOM YOU CRUCIFIED
“ . . . whom ye crucified . . . ” Other versions read, “whom you put to death on the cross,” BBE “whom ye have crucified,” DARBY “You crucified Jesus Christ,” GWN “the man you crucified,” NLT “whom ye did crucify,” YLT “Although you nailed Him to the cross,” IE and “He is the One whom you crucified.” PHILLIPS
Is it possible for a clearer statement to be made on the matter? Think of the statements made on this subject through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit.
➪ “Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain” (Acts 2:23).
➪ “Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ” (Acts 2:36).
➪ “The God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, hath glorified his Son Jesus; whom ye delivered up, and denied him in the presence of Pilate, when he was determined to let him go” (Acts 3:13).
➪ “But ye denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer to be granted unto you; and killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses” (Acts 3:14-15).
➪ “The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree” (Acts 5:30).
➪ “Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which showed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers” (Acts 7:52).
➪ “ . . . the Jews: who both killed the Lord Jesus, and their own prophets, and have persecuted us; and they please not God, and are contrary to all men” (1 Thess 2:14-15).
The Jews arrested and tried Jesus (Mk 14:60-65; Acts 2:23), delivered Him up (Acts 3:13), denied Him (Acts 3:14), demanded that He be crucified (Acts 2:36), and pressured Pilate on the matter (John 18:30; 19:7,12). They are categorically said to have crucified him (Acts 2:23,36), slain Him (Acts 2:23), killed Him (Acts 3:15; 1 Thess 2:15), hanged Him on a tree (Acts 5:30), and murdered Him (Acts 7:52).
It simply is not right to speak in a politically-right manner as though the Holy Spirit had not spoken clearly and concisely concerning the responsibility of the Jews in Christ’s death. In fact, the following statement concerning Christ’s resurrection will not have its intended power if the Jew were really not guilty of killing Him.
WHOM GOD RAISED FROM THE DEAD
“ . . . whom God raised from the dead . . .” Other versions read, “whom God gave back from the dead,” BBE “whom God has raised from among the dead,” DARBY “whom God raised again from the dead,” GENEVA “God has brought Him back to life,” GWN “whom God raised again from death,” TNT and “whom God did raise out of the dead.” YLT
The resurrection of Jesus was a miracle – but it was more than a miracle. It was also a heavenly denunciation of all who rejected Jesus – particularly those who demanded his death. When Caiaphas asked Jesus, “Art Thou the Christ, the son of the Blessed,” Jesus answered Him in truth. “I am: and ye shall see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven” (Mark 14:61-62). Instead of Caiaphas believing the truth, he tore his clothes and said, “What need we any further witnesses. Ye have heard the blasphemy: what think ye? And they all condemned him to be guilty of death” (Mark 14:64). Now, in raising Jesus from the dead, God exposed how wrong they were. He revealed the hardness of their hearts, and how they had been willing vassals of the devil himself.
IT IS BY HIM
“ . . . even by Him doth this man stand here before you whole.” Other versions read, “by this name this man stands here before you in good health,” NASB “by this man stands before you healed,” NIV “this man is standing before you in good health by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth,” NRSV “by Him this man is standing before you well, “ RSV “it is by His authority that this man stands here healed,” LIVING “This man who was crippled is now well and able to stand here before you because of Jesus,” IE “through that name this man stands here before you in perfect health,”WEYMOUTH “in Him does this man stand before you strong and well,” MONTGOMERY and “in Him and by means of Him this man is standing here before you well and sound in body.” AMPLIFIED
The Jesus whom they killed, and whom God raised again, is the One through whom the man standing before them had been made perfectly whole. No natural man could have done this, and that was very apparent. The works of the Lord are not only “great” (Psa 111:2) and “wonderful” (Psa 40:5), they are also unique, for only He can do them. They are all “done in truth” (Psa 33:4), and all of them are “holy” (Psa 145:17). None of them can be replicated by unholy or unacceptable people.
This confirms that the “same Jesus,” whom they rejected, is the One who, seated at the right hand of God, had wrought this deed they have all seen. The resurrected Christ was not a new Messiah, but the very One who had went about doing good, and healing all who were oppressed of the devil.
We learn something significant here about the resurrection of the dead. It is only the body that will be changed – not the person. It is the body, and the body alone, that is “sown in corruption,” “in weakness,” “in dishonor,” and as a “natural body” (1 Cor 15:42-44). The spirit, which is the essential man, is not “sown,” and it will not be “raised” from death. Those who belong to Christ will be brought back with Jesus when He comes again (1 Thess 4:14). However, they will come with the same character they had when they left the body. It will be the same for the wicked.
While this may not be expressly said by the modern church, it seems that a general notion exists that the resurrection will resolve basic character flaws. This is not so. The persons we are when we die will be the persons we are when we are raised from the dead. We know this is the case because of the resurrection of Christ. Further, His resurrection is the prelude of our own resurrection. As it is written, “And God hath both raised up the Lord, and will also raise up us by his own power” (1 Cor 6:14). And again, “Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you” (2 Cor 4:14).
THIS IS THE STONE YOU SET AT NOUGHT
“ 11 This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.”
Peter will not let this matter go, only saying a few words about it, so as not to be too offensive. At this point, he is more interested in the honoring of Jesus than the appeasement of men. He will show the deliberate nature of the Jews’ treatment of Jesus, and how determined they were to fulfill their own will.
THIS IS THE STONE
“This is the Stone . . . ” Other versions read, “He is the Stone,” NASB “This Jesus is the Stone,” NRSV “For Jesus is the one referred to in the Scriptures, where it says, 'The stone . . . ” NLT and “For Jesus the Messiah is [the One referred to in the Scriptures when they speak of] a Stone.” LIVING
Peter will base his statements upon the affirmation of Scripture. It is the responsibility of His hearers to see the truth of what He says. Of course, in that day, devout Jews were familiar with the Scriptures – particularly those regarding the Messiah. It ought to be noted here that when a professed church is not familiar with the word of God, it puts the preacher, as well as the people, at a great disadvantage. Sound reasoning, whether in the conviction of sin or the perfecting of the saints, must be founded upon the Word of God.
“The Stone”
Nearly eight hundred years before, David had written about the rejection of Christ by the Jewish leaders. “The Stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner. This is the LORD'S doing; it is marvelous in our eyes” (Psa 118:22-23).
Isaiah also spoke of this Stone as a foundation: “Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a Stone, a tried Stone, a precious corner Stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste” (Isa 28:16).
During the ministry of Jesus, he brought the attention of the leaders to these things, leaving them without excuse. “Did ye never read in the scriptures, The Stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner: this is the Lord's doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes?” (Matt 21:42; Mk 12:10-12; Lk 20:17).
Later, in his First epistle to scattered believers, Peter wrote, “Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Zion a chief corner Stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded. Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the Stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner” (1 Pet 2:6-7).
Jesus of Nazareth was, then, the prophesied “Stone” which would be the most prominent part of the “house” God was going to build for David (2 Sam 7:27). He was a Teacher, but not merely a teacher! He went about doing good, but there was more to Him than that. He decimated the devil’s kingdom, but He was sent to do much more than this!
The Word “Stone”
The word from which the word “Stone” is translated is a critical one. Interestingly, it is not the word translated “rock” (Pe,troj – petros, or pe,tra| – petra). That word refers to a ledge of rock upon which the house is built. This is not the kind of “Stone” to which our text refers. This “Stone” is integral to the building itself. It is a smaller, yet most critical, stone. The word from which it is translated is li,qoj (lithos). This is the word used in the texts referring to Jesus as the “Stone” (Matt 21:42,44; Mk 12:10; Lk 20:17-18; Acts 4:11; 1 Pet 2:4,6,7,8). This “Stone” will be more precisely defined later.
SET AT NOUGHT OF YOU BUILDERS
“ . . . which was set at nought of you builders . . .” Other versions read, “rejected by you builders,” NKJV “rejected by you, the builders,” NASB”you builders rejected,” NIV “set at nought of you the builders,” ASV “which you builders had no use for,” BBE “despised by you builders,” CSB “cast aside of you builders,” GENEVA “discarded by the builders,” LIVING “which you builders thought worthless,” IE “treated with contempt by you the builders,” WEYMOUTH “that was thrown away by you builders,” WILLIAMS “which was despised and rejected by you, the builders,” AMPLIFIED and “having been rejected by you the builders.” ALT
The primary Stone of the building was “set at nought,” “rejected,” NKJV “discarded,” LIVING and “thrown away” WILLIAMS by the builders. They saw it, considered it, and “despised” CSB it. They thought is “worthless,” IE treated it with “contempt,” WEYMOUTH and “had no use for” BBE it. The “Stone” had been placed among them, and was “approved of God” in their presence by unparalleled confirmations (Acts 2:22). In word and deed, He was confirmed to be superior. His words were with power, and His deeds with staggering effectiveness. Yet, “the builders” – THE BUILDERS – saw no use for the Stone.
“The builders” are the leaders charged with the responsibility of putting the people on the right path. They are responsible for the establishment of proper thoughts and objectives. It is their duty to prepare the people for what God gives, and lead them in seeing this world and the world to come with clarity. “The builders” are not merely religious leaders. They are to ready the people for the work of the Lord – the building. They are to prepare the people to receive the blessing. That is what they will be held accountable for doing. That is how they will be judged!
There is no acceptable excuse for “the builders” constructing something that is wrong. In the work of the Lord, whether preparing people for the initial appearance of Jesus, or when He appears “the second time,” the builders are to get the people ready. They are to make sure those who are under their influence have a proper perception of Jesus. Their ministry is to lead the people to see the Lord Jesus correctly, and to be prepared to be fed and led by Him to glory. If they do not do this, they will be held accountable for their negligence, for everything has been supplied for them to do the work. If that work is not done, it had better not be because of “the builders.”
In our text, Jesus of Nazareth did not fit in with what these “builders” were doing – no place for Him in the work in which they were engaged. Peter does not gloss this condition as though it did not exist. He plainly tells them “you builders” have “set at nought” the main Stone!
It ought to be noted that this is also the reason for the general neglect of Jesus today. Men have chosen to specialize in other things, and they can find no prominent place for Jesus in those things. He simply does not fit into them as an emphasis, whose will is supreme and whose work involves deliverance from the world. Such men can use a little Jesus – something like a spiritual spice that supposedly makes their teaching palatable.
However – and it is essential that men know this – Jesus will not take second place! He will not come to assist men in fulfilling objectives that are wholly unrelated to God’s revealed and eternal purpose.
WHICH IS THE HEAD OF THE CORNER
“ . . . which is become the head of the corner.” Other versions read, “which has become the chief cornerstone,” NKJV “but which is become the very corner stone,” NASB “which has become the capstone,” NIV “which was made the head of the corner,” ASV “which has been made the chief stone of the building,” BBE“which is set in the chief place of the corner,” TNT and “which became the capstone of the arch.” LIVING
In ancient architecture, the “cornerstone,” or “head stone of the corner,” was the primary stone of a building. As seen in the illustration, it not only joined the corners of a building, but was the foundation upon which an entrance arch was based. It is what held everything together, making the building stable.
God has made Jesus the primary Component of life, and of the church itself – the “Cornerstone.” The principal part of the church is not its members, but its Head. It is not its name, but the One presiding over it. It is not its role in society, but Christ’s role within it. Take Jesus out of the church, and it is nothing and has no purpose. The professed church is relevant only to the degree that Christ Jesus is working within it, fulfilling the will of the Father.
In the same way Jesus is the main component of life. No person will benefit from Christ by treating Him as an adjunct or accessory to life. He is not like medicine, to be taken when sick, but stored away when everything appears to be going well. Obtaining grace to help in “the time of need” (Heb 4:16) assumes that we are within the proximity of grace, living in fellowship with Christ and the communion of the Holy Spirit.
One of the Dangers of Our time
One of the great dangers of our time is the growing prevalence of an approach to religion in which Jesus is not the primary component. He is seen more as an assistant designed to help men fulfill their own ambitions. Life in this world is being held forth as the primary life, and thus Jesus is rejected as the “Head of the corner” of life. The nominal church assists the maintenance of this corrupt view by offering all manners extracurricular activities, designed to make carnally-minded people more comfortable. Everyone with even a modicum of understanding knows that Jesus Christ is not the center of such activities. His Gospel is not the primary subject of exposition, and the Scriptures themselves are largely unknown.
Let me be clear about this. There is no place for Jesus other than that of the Head of the corner. If He is not received as the primary Person, and His work as the primary work, He cannot be received, and no advantages can be experienced from Him. Jesus will not take a secondary position to anyone but God the Father Himself. He is the only one who is not subject to Christ (1 Cor 15:27). For Jesus to be anything but primary would be a sin, for the Father has exalted Him as “Head over all things” (Eph 1:22). It is not possible to receive Jesus as anyone but Lord, for that is what He is.
Jesus Refers to David’s Statement
Jesus referred to David’s statement concerning “the builders” rejecting the very Stone that became the Head of the corner. “Did ye never read in the scriptures, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner: this is the Lord's doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes?” (Matt 21:42; Mk 12:10-11). Luke says of this Stone, “Whosoever shall fall upon that stone shall be broken; but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder” (Luke 20:18). That is, whoever rejects Jesus as the principal Person will be destroyed by Him. Paul affirms that Jesus is “the chief Cornerstone” (Eph 2:20). Peter says of Jesus, “To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious,” (1 Pet 2:4).
Peter also says of Jesus Christ, “Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Zion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on Him shall not be confounded. Unto you therefore which believe He is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner, and a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed” (1 Pet 2:6-8). Thus, Jesus is the Stone revealed in three different ways.
➪ The Head of the corner, solidifying the house of God, which is the church.
➪ A stone of stumbling, that causes men who reject Him to stumble, or err.
➪ A rock of offense, that causes those who reject Him to fall into a helpless and hopeless state.
Failing to recognize the real Person of Jesus is disastrous in every sense of the word – particularly when we are speaking of “the builders.” Although I have said this before, I must affirm it again. Men cannot be wrong about Jesus!
If men do not receive Jesus as the “Head of the corner,” they will stumble over Him, falling into perdition. To perceive Jesus as anything but Head over all things, and the Objective of living, will cause Him to be offensive to the individual, and thus rejected. That is why Jesus said, “And whosoever shall fall on this Stone shall be broken: but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder” (Matt 21:44). To “fall on this Stone” means to depend wholly upon Him for salvation, willingly placing our destiny in His hands, and being subject to Him in all things. The result of that will be the destruction of self-will, and a godly sorrow over the vanity to which one has given himself. If, however, the person does not throw himself upon the mercy of the Lord, submitting to Jesus without any qualifications, Jesus will ultimately destroy him. He will “grind him to powder,” or punish him “with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of His power” (2 Thess 1:9).
Peter is setting the facts before “the builders” – the religious leaders – in order that they might recover from their blunder. He is calling upon them to fall upon the Stone that they had previous rejected, and thereby be saved. Their treatment of Jesus did not have any effect upon who He was and is. He is still the Head of the corner, even though the builders had rejected Him.
NO SALVATION OUTSIDE OF JESUS CHRIST
“ 12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.”
Because men speak too casually about salvation, it is particular important to grasp what Peter here affirms. In heaven, there is zero-tolerance of those who do not receive Jesus as God has presented Him – “the record God has given of His Son” (1 John 5:10-11). I am not speaking of how Jesus is referenced in creedal statements. This gets to the matter of how the individual or group actually goes about appropriating and maintaining salvation. If Jesus in any sense takes the back seat, or is perceived as being in a secondary or subordinate position to anyone or anything else, salvation is forfeited. God will not play games with men on this matter, or engage in semantics and philosophical bantering. Whatever men may perceive to be important, Jesus is always more important! Whatever men may identify as the critical issue, Jesus is a more critical issue! There is no leeway or margin of tolerance on this matter! If, for example, a person defers to anyone other than Jesus, he cannot possibly be a disciple of Jesus, be taught by Him, or led by Him. Here is how Jesus stated the matter: “If any man come to Me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple” (Luke 14:26). In this case, “hate” means that when there is a conflict between Jesus and father, mother, wife, children, brothers, sisters, or personal preferences, if the person does not choose Jesus, he cannot be Jesus’ disciple.
This is not an ideological statement. This is really the way it is, even though the statement appears to disqualify great segments of the professing church. An absolute requirement for being Jesus’ disciple is forsaking every competing interest. Jesus said, “So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be My disciple” (Luke 14:33). Jesus taught men to consider the cost of following Him, and to do so before they attempt to enroll in his ranks (Lk 14:27-32). Salvation is serious business, and that is why Peter is speaking as he does. Zealously rid yourself of any approach to salvation or being in Christ that allows for your interests to compete with His, or that permits you to give the affections that belong to Him to anyone else. Once you have made this decision, the words that follow will make perfect sense.
NEITHER IS THERE SALVATION IN ANY OTHER
“Neither is there salvation in any other . . .” Other versions read, “Nor is there salvation in any other,” NKJV “And there is salvation in no one else,” NASB “Salvation is found in no one else,” NIV “No one else can save us,” GWN “Neither is there deliverance in any other,” MRD “There is no salvation through anyone else,” NAB “Jesus is the only One who can save people,” IE “And in no other is the great salvation to be found,” WEYMOUTH “And there is salvation in and through no one else,” AMPLIFIED and “Salvation is to be found through Him alone.” GNB
Salvation has to be accomplished by someone outside of ourselves. We are saved by a Person, not a procedure. We are saved by God’s Man, not an organization. While this Savior is eager to save, He is not so eager as to violate the will of His Father, or to allow you to dictate the means by which you are saved. It goes without saying that the person who is to be saved must be on good terms with the Savior. Those good terms are met when faith is found in the individual – an unwavering trust in Jesus that compels the individual to cry out, “What wilt Thou have me to do” (Acts 9:6), and then responds to what he is told.
For multitudes, this has not yet dawned upon the soul: “Neither is there salvation in any other.” I know this is the case, for they seem to have no other interests than their own. They give too much value to their families, their peers and their favorite institutions. They speak too much of themselves, their friends, their church, their will, etc. However, if a person wants salvation, freedom from sin, deliverance from the curse, and reconciliation with God, he must come to the “none other” point – be able to perceive it and desire it above everything else.
NONE OTHER NAME UNDER HEAVEN
“ . . . for there is none other name under heaven . . . ” Other versions read, “neither is there another name under heaven,” DARBY “Under all heaven there is no other name,” LIVING “His authority is the only power,” IE and “there is no second name under heaven.” WEYMOUTH
There is a single “name” through which we are “saved.” It is the “name” of the only Person God has unqualifiedly received, and to whom He has given all power in heaven and earth. He will honor to no other “name” – no other Person.
We should be interested in the expression “under heaven,” for that is where we presently are. Solomon spoke of things “done under heaven” (Eccl 1:13), but Peter speaks of a name that has been given “under heaven.” That is, this is a Person who has been given to “every creature under heaven” (Col 1:23). God has only given one name, and there is no other, even though some affirm that one exists.
GIVEN AMONG MEN
“ . . . given among men . . .” Other versions read, “given to men,” NIV “given among mortals,” NRSV “given to people,” CSB “given to the human race,” NAB “for men,” LIVING “given to the world,” IE and “appointed among men.” WILLIAMS
This is a Person who has been provided for men – Adam’s offspring, for he is the federal head of natural men, who, as a consequence of his transgression, are sinners (Rom 5:12). Jesus has not been given to angels, but to men.
By saying “among men,” Peter means that He has been made accessible to men. It would be pointless to declare this name if man could not derive eternal benefits from it. If any person remains ignorant of Jesus, it is not because He has not been made accessible to men. No person will ever be lost because God did not do enough! The catch is that the name of Jesus has been given to the church, who is the custodian of the truth of God (1 Tim 3:15). It is responsible for declaring the name, and making men aware of the salvation of God.
If the church is distracted from its stewardship to other things, a most serious condition will ensue, as confirmed in the Dark Ages, a dreadful period of spiritual darkness that spanned a thousand years (500-1500 A.D.). This was an era in which stagnation and obscurity dominated in literature and art – but chiefly in Christianity. It was a time when, in the minds of men, Jesus was displaced by the institutional church.
WHEREBY WE MUST BE SAVED
“ . . . whereby we must be saved.” Other versions read, “by which we must be saved,” NKJV “wherein we must be saved,” ASV “through which we may have salvation,” BBE “whereby to live,” MRD “by which we are to be saved,” NAB “in which it behoveth us to be saved,” YLT “for men to call upon to save them,” LIVING “by and in which we must be saved,” AMPLIFIED and “it is by this name that we must be saved.” PHILLIPS
Being saved by the name of Jesus is not being saved by a formula, or merely fulfilling a routine. The idea here is that Jesus Himself is involved in the salvation. It is through Him that men are forgiven, escape the pollutions of the world, and receive the benefits of the New Covenant. As mediator of the New Covenant, Jesus administers the blessings of that covenant, as affirmed in Hebrews 8:10-12.