Acts 10:42

And He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that He is the One appointed by God to judge the living and the dead.

Study Bible

He commanded us
This phrase underscores the divine authority and imperative nature of the mission given to the apostles. The Greek word for "commanded" is "παραγγέλλω" (parangellō), which conveys a sense of authoritative instruction. In the historical context of Acts, this command is not merely a suggestion but a divine mandate. The apostles, as eyewitnesses of Christ's resurrection, are entrusted with a sacred duty. This reflects the Great Commission found in Matthew 28:19-20, where Jesus instructs His followers to make disciples of all nations. The use of "commanded" emphasizes the seriousness and urgency of their mission.

to preach to the people
The Greek word for "preach" is "κηρύσσω" (kērussō), meaning to proclaim or herald. This term was often used in the context of a royal proclamation, indicating the importance and authority of the message. "The people" refers to both Jews and Gentiles, highlighting the inclusive nature of the Gospel. Historically, this was a radical shift, as the early church began to understand that the message of salvation through Jesus Christ was for all humanity, not just the Jewish nation. This aligns with the broader narrative of Acts, where the Gospel breaks ethnic and cultural barriers.

and to testify
The word "testify" comes from the Greek "διαμαρτύρομαι" (diamarturomai), which means to bear witness or affirm solemnly. This term implies a personal and experiential knowledge of the truth being declared. The apostles are not merely sharing secondhand information; they are providing firsthand testimony of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection. This is crucial in the early church's mission, as their testimony serves as the foundation for the faith of new believers. The act of testifying is both a privilege and a responsibility, as it involves sharing the transformative power of the Gospel.

that He is the One
This phrase affirms the unique and exclusive role of Jesus Christ in God's redemptive plan. The Greek word "ὁ" (ho) is a definite article, emphasizing that Jesus is the singular, chosen one. This echoes the messianic prophecies of the Old Testament, where the coming of the Anointed One was foretold. In the context of Acts, this declaration is a bold affirmation of Jesus' identity as the Messiah and the Son of God, countering any claims of other messianic figures or religious leaders.

appointed by God
The Greek word for "appointed" is "ὁρίζω" (horizō), meaning to determine or ordain. This term indicates divine selection and purpose. Jesus' role as judge and savior is not a human invention but a divine appointment. This reflects the sovereignty of God in the unfolding of His redemptive plan. Historically, this appointment is rooted in the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the divine orchestration of events leading to Jesus' life, death, and resurrection.

as judge of the living and the dead
This phrase encapsulates the eschatological role of Jesus Christ. The Greek word for "judge" is "κριτής" (kritēs), which denotes one who has the authority to make decisions and pass judgment. The inclusion of both "the living and the dead" signifies the comprehensive scope of Christ's judgment. This is a central tenet of Christian eschatology, affirming that all humanity will stand before Christ, who will judge with perfect justice and righteousness. This truth serves as both a warning and a comfort: a warning to those who reject the Gospel and a comfort to believers who trust in Christ's righteous judgment.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Peter
The apostle who is speaking in this passage. He is delivering a message to Cornelius and his household, emphasizing the universality of the Gospel.

2. Cornelius
A Roman centurion who is devout and God-fearing. He receives a vision from God, leading to Peter's visit and the subsequent sharing of the Gospel.

3. Jesus Christ
Referred to as the One appointed by God to judge the living and the dead, highlighting His divine authority and role in salvation history.

4. Caesarea
The location where this event takes place. It is a significant city in the Roman Empire and a center for early Christian activity.

5. The Apostles
The group commanded by Jesus to preach and testify about Him. They are the primary witnesses to His life, death, and resurrection.

Teaching Points

The Universality of the Gospel
The command to preach to "the people" signifies the inclusive nature of the Gospel message, breaking down barriers between Jews and Gentiles.

The Authority of Christ
Jesus is appointed by God as the judge, affirming His divine authority and the necessity of recognizing His lordship in our lives.

The Responsibility of Witnesses
As followers of Christ, we are called to be His witnesses, sharing the truth of His life, death, and resurrection with others.

The Urgency of the Message
Understanding that Christ will judge the living and the dead should instill a sense of urgency in our mission to share the Gospel.

Living in Light of Judgment
Knowing that Jesus will judge all should influence our daily lives, encouraging us to live righteously and share the hope we have in Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding Jesus as the judge of the living and the dead impact your view of His authority in your life?

2. In what ways can you actively participate in the command to "preach to the people" in your own community?

3. How does the account of Cornelius challenge or encourage you in reaching out to those who are different from you?

4. What are some practical steps you can take to live with a sense of urgency in sharing the Gospel?

5. How do the connections to other scriptures, such as the Great Commission, enhance your understanding of the mission given to the apostles and to us today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 28:18-20
The Great Commission, where Jesus commands His disciples to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to obey His commands. This parallels the command to preach and testify in Acts 10:42.

John 5:22-27
Jesus speaks about His authority to judge, given by the Father. This passage reinforces the role of Jesus as the judge of the living and the dead.

2 Timothy 4:1
Paul charges Timothy in the presence of God and Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, to preach the word. This echoes the command given in Acts 10:42.