Acts 26:23
That Christ should suffer, and that he should be the first that should rise from the dead, and should shew light unto the people, and to the Gentiles.
Acts 26:23 (KJV)
Context
In Acts 26, the apostle Paul stands before King Agrippa, defending himself and recounting his conversion and calling. He insists that he teaches nothing beyond what Moses and the prophets said would happen. This verse is the climax of that defense, summarizing the three things they foretold and Paul preached: that the Messiah must suffer, that He would be the first to rise from the dead, and that He would proclaim light to the Jewish people and to the Gentiles.
Meaning
The suffering of Christ refers to His great afflictions in soul and body, and to His death. This was recorded in the Old Testament, beginning with the promise in Genesis 3:15, and pictured in types such as the Passover lamb, the brazen serpent, and the sacrificial system. The resurrection of Christ is described as Him being the first to rise from the dead, the firstfruits of them that slept. This was foretold by the prophets, including Psalms 16:10, Isaiah 26:19, and Hosea 6:2. The phrase “shew light” means to proclaim light, or salvation, to the people. Christ showed this light in His own person to the Jewish people, and by His apostles to the Gentiles. The prophets foretold that He would be a light to both Jews and Gentiles, as seen in Isaiah 9:2, 42:6, and 49:6.
Biblical connections
This verse connects to 1 Corinthians 15:20, where Christ is called the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep, and 1 Corinthians 15:23, which states that Christ is the firstfruits, and afterward those who belong to Him will be raised at His coming. The verse affirms that the gospel message is not a departure from the Old Testament but the fulfillment of it. The light of salvation is offered to all people, both Jewish and non-Jewish, through the suffering and resurrection of the Messiah.
Application
Paul’s message centered on repentance and turning to God, first to the Jews in Damascus, Jerusalem, and Judaea, and then to the Gentiles. True repentance is accompanied by “works meet for repentance“—visible evidence of a changed heart. Genuine repentance results in a transformation that affects how a person lives and interacts with others. It is not merely a verbal declaration but a lifestyle that aligns with God’s principles and reflects His love and righteousness.
Reflection
Acts 26:23 reminds us that the gospel is rooted in the Old Testament promises and fulfilled in Christ. The suffering and resurrection of Jesus are not isolated events but the center of God’s plan for all people. As we receive the light of salvation, we are called to walk in that light, turning from sin and living lives that honor God.
