Acts 13:26

"As John was fulfilling his course, he said, ‘What do you suppose that I am? I am not he. But behold, one comes after me, the sandals of whose feet I am not worthy to untie.’"

Key Reflection

In Acts 13:26, Paul is drawing upon the prophecy and self-identification of John the Baptist during his ministry to underscore Jesus as the Messiah. The original audience would have recognized John's humility in acknowledging that he was not the expected Messiah but rather a preparer for someone greater. This statement by John highlights the expectation among Jews for a deliverer, setting up the narrative for Jesus' claims and mission, which were seen as fulfilling prophetic expectations of a divine savior.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 26. Men and brethren. Paul now exhorts them to embrace the Lord Jesus as the Messiah. He uses, therefore, the most respectful and fraternal language. Children of the stock of Abraham. Descendants of Abraham; who regard Abraham as your ancestor. He means here to address particularly the native -born Jews; and appellation is used because they valued themselves highly on account of their descent from Abraham, See Barnes "Mt 3:9" and because the promise of the Messiah had been specially given to him. And whosoever, etc. Proselytes. See Barnes "Ac 13:16". Is the word of this salvation sent. This message of salvation. It was sent particularly to the Jewish people.

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