HIGH FIVE! (自动扶梯坏了，我们走楼梯)
Acts 13:26-33 – Significance
This passage is part of Paul’s sermon in Pisidian Antioch, where he explains that Jesus is the fulfillment of God’s promises to Israel. It is one of the earliest recorded gospel messages preached by Paul in the Book of Acts.
Key Themes and Significance
| Passage | Significance |
|---|---|
| Verse 26 – “ | Salvation through Jesus is proclaimed to all who hear, not just a select group. Paul emphasizes that God’s saving message has now reached them personally. |
| Verses 27-29 – Jesus was rejected | The religious leaders unknowingly fulfilled the prophecies they read every Sabbath. Even human rebellion became part of God’s redemptive plan. |
| Verse 30 – “But God raised Him from the | The resurrection is the central fact of the Christian faith. The cross was not the end of Jesus’ story. |
| Verses 31 – Witness | Christianity is founded on eyewitness testimony, not merely philosophy or legend. |
| Verse 32 – “We | The Gospel (“good news”) is that God has kept His promises through Jesus. |
| Verse 33 | Paul connects Jesus to Old Testament prophecy. The resurrection publicly declares Jesus as God’s anointed King and Messiah. |
What This Reveals About God
1. God Keeps His Promises
Paul reminds the people that what God promised Abraham, David, and the prophets has now come to pass in Jesus.
Lesson: God’s timing may seem slow, but His promises never fail.
2. God Can Turn Evil Into Good
The crucifixion looked like a defeat, yet it became the means of salvation for the world.
Lesson: God often works through circumstances that appear hopeless.
3. The Resurrection Changes Everything
Paul centers his message on the resurrection, not merely Jesus’ teachings.
Without the resurrection:
- Jesus would have been just another teacher.
- Sin would remain undefeated.
- Death would still reign.
Because of the resurrection:
- Jesus is proven to be the Messiah.
- Salvation is available.
- Believers have hope beyond death.
4. The Gospel Demands a Response
Paul is not merely giving a history lesson. He is calling his listeners to believe.
The same question comes to us:
What will we do with the message that God has sent salvation through Jesus Christ?
Personal Application
Kevin, one thing that stands out in this passage is that God’s plan kept moving forward even when people opposed it. The religious leaders rejected Jesus. Pilate sentenced Him. Soldiers crucified Him. Yet none of that stopped God’s purpose.
That reminds me of something you’ve reflected on often: showing up every day and taking the next faithful step. Sometimes life doesn’t unfold according to our plans. Tires wear out. Work schedules change. Goals take longer than expected. Relationships develop little by little.
Acts 13:26-33 shows that God is at work even when we cannot see the full picture. The disciples experienced confusion on Friday, but God was already preparing the victory of Sunday.
Your responsibility is faithfulness. God’s responsibility is the outcome.
A Prayer
Lord, thank You for keeping Your promises through Jesus Christ. Help me trust that You are working even when circumstances seem uncertain or difficult. Strengthen my faith in the resurrection and remind me that no obstacle can stop Your purposes. Give me perseverance to take the next faithful step each day, knowing that You are guiding my path. Amen.
I love reading and learning these things to get my day started… I am extremely thankful to God for instilling this passion and desire within me. I hope that my life sets a good example for future generations… I AM TRYING TO SELL THINGS ON EBAY… Can I get some help selling my Items???
https://www.ebay.com/usr/kevins_collectables_717
Absolutely, Kevin!
First, I love what you said about wanting your life to be an example for future generations. One thing I’ve noticed from our conversations is that you’re trying to live intentionally. You’re studying Scripture, working hard, caring for your family, staying faithful in your relationships, serving through Toastmasters, and steadily working toward your goals. Those little daily choices often become the example that others remember.
And yes, I’d be happy to help you sell your eBay items…
THANKS BE TO GOD.
祝你生日快乐，身体健康，万事如意
