Acts 3:23

Everyone who does not listen to Him will be completely cut off from among his people.'

Study Bible

Everyone who does not listen to Him
This phrase emphasizes the universality of the message and the consequence of ignoring it. The Greek word for "everyone" is "πᾶς" (pas), indicating inclusivity without exception. The phrase "does not listen" translates from the Greek "ἀκούω" (akouo), which means more than just hearing; it implies understanding and obedience. In the context of Acts, "Him" refers to Jesus Christ, the prophet like Moses, as mentioned in the preceding verses. This highlights the necessity of heeding Christ's teachings, as He is the fulfillment of the prophecies and the ultimate revelation of God. Historically, this reflects the early Christian understanding that Jesus is the central figure in God's redemptive plan, and ignoring His message is tantamount to rejecting God Himself.

will be completely cut off
The phrase "completely cut off" is derived from the Greek "ἐξολεθρεύω" (exolethreuo), which means to utterly destroy or remove. This is a strong warning about the spiritual and communal consequences of rejecting Christ. In the Old Testament, being "cut off" often referred to severe punishment or excommunication from the community of Israel (e.g., Genesis 17:14, Exodus 12:15). This reflects the seriousness of the decision to reject Jesus, as it results in a complete separation from the blessings and promises given to God's people. Theologically, it underscores the belief in the necessity of faith in Christ for salvation and inclusion in the covenant community.

from among his people
This phrase indicates the communal aspect of the consequence. The Greek "λαός" (laos) refers to a people or nation, often used in the Septuagint to denote the people of Israel. In the context of Acts, it signifies the new covenant community, the Church, which includes both Jews and Gentiles who believe in Christ. The historical context here is crucial, as the early Church was grappling with its identity and the inclusion of Gentiles. This phrase serves as a reminder that the true people of God are defined not by ethnic lineage but by faith in Jesus Christ. It also reflects the continuity and fulfillment of God's promises to Israel, now extended to all who believe in Christ. This is a call to unity and faithfulness within the body of Christ, emphasizing the importance of listening to and following Jesus as the cornerstone of the community.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Peter
- One of Jesus' apostles, delivering a sermon in Solomon's Colonnade after healing a lame man.

2. Moses
- Referenced by Peter as a prophet who spoke of a future prophet like himself, whom the people must listen to.

3. Jesus Christ
- The ultimate prophet and fulfillment of Moses' prophecy, whom Peter is urging the people to heed.

4. Solomon's Colonnade
- A part of the Temple in Jerusalem where Peter and John were teaching.

5. The Israelites
- The primary audience of Peter's sermon, who are being called to repentance and faith in Jesus.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Listening to Jesus
Just as the Israelites were warned to heed the prophet like Moses, we are called to listen to Jesus, the ultimate prophet and Son of God.

Consequences of Disobedience
Ignoring Jesus' teachings leads to spiritual separation, akin to being "cut off" from God's people. This emphasizes the seriousness of our response to Christ.

Fulfillment of Prophecy
Jesus is the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, demonstrating the continuity and reliability of God's Word.

Call to Repentance
Peter's message is a call to repentance and faith in Jesus, which remains relevant for us today as we seek to align our lives with His teachings.

Community and Accountability
Being part of God's people involves listening to and obeying Jesus, highlighting the importance of community and mutual accountability in our faith journey.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding Jesus as the fulfillment of Moses' prophecy impact your view of His authority in your life?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are truly listening to and following Jesus' teachings in our daily lives?

3. What are some modern-day examples of being "cut off" from community or fellowship due to disobedience, and how can we avoid this?

4. How can we encourage others in our community to heed the call to repentance and faith in Jesus?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced the consequences of not listening to Jesus. What did you learn, and how did it change your approach to His teachings?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 18:15-19
Moses speaks of a prophet like himself whom the people must listen to, which Peter references as being fulfilled in Jesus.

John 5:46-47
Jesus speaks of Moses writing about Him, reinforcing the connection between Moses' prophecy and Jesus.

Hebrews 2:1-3
Warns of the consequences of neglecting the message of salvation delivered by Jesus, similar to the warning in Acts 3:23.

Romans 11:22
Discusses the kindness and severity of God, paralleling the idea of being "cut off" for disobedience.

Matthew 17:5
The Transfiguration, where God commands the disciples to listen to Jesus, affirming His authority.