Acts 3:26
Unto you first God, having raised up his Son Jesus, sent him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from his iniquities.
Acts 3:26 (KJV)
Context
This verse concludes Peter’s sermon to the Jewish crowd gathered in the temple after he and John healed a man lame from birth. Peter speaks directly to the people of Israel, saying “Unto you first.” This phrase signals the priority of the Jewish people in God’s plan of blessing, a theme consistent with the early Christian movement’s initial focus on reaching Jews before extending to Gentiles.
Meaning
The phrase “having raised up his Son Jesus” points to God’s action in bringing Jesus forth. This can be understood as the incarnation—God raising up a deliverer from David’s line—or as the resurrection and exaltation of Jesus. Both readings affirm that Jesus came from God with divine authority.
God sent Jesus “to bless you,” and the verse defines that blessing specifically: “in turning away every one of you from his iniquities.” The blessing is not primarily material or physical. Its core is the forgiveness of sins and the transformation of the heart.
This turning away is both God’s work and a personal call. The phrase “every one of you” emphasizes that each individual must respond in repentance. Through faith in Jesus, believers receive salvation, reconciliation with God, and the power of the Holy Spirit to live righteously.
Biblical connections
The “raising up” language echoes the Old Testament pattern of God raising judges and deliverers, and it is applied here to Jesus as the ultimate deliverer. The call to turn from iniquities reflects the prophetic summons to repentance. Peter’s earlier command in Acts 2:38 to repent and be baptized connects directly to this blessing.
This verse also fulfills the promise to Abraham that all families of the earth would be blessed (Acts 3:25). The blessing of Abraham is realized in the turning away from sin, showing the continuity of God’s plan from the prophets to Jesus.
Application
Acts 3:26 reminds us that God’s grace in sending Jesus is the foundation for our response. The gospel’s blessing is inseparable from repentance—turning from sin and embracing the life Jesus offers. This invitation extends to all people, regardless of background, because the message of salvation is available to everyone.
As we reflect on this verse, we are called to examine our own hearts, turn from iniquities, and receive the blessing of forgiveness and transformation through Jesus Christ.
Reflection
God’s initiative in sending Jesus demonstrates His love and mercy. The blessing of being turned from sin is both a gift and a command. How will you respond to this blessing today?
