Overview of the Verse

This verse is part of Peter's sermon when he addresses the household of Cornelius, emphasizing the apostolic witness to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It highlights the key events of Jesus' ministry and His crucifixion, showing the apostles’ firsthand experience of these truths.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry suggests that the phrase "we are witnesses" indicates the importance of firsthand testimonies in the early Christian community. The apostles were not merely relaying information; they had experienced Jesus' miracles, His teachings, and His ultimate sacrifice, which positions them as credible witnesses of His ministry.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes elaborates on the nature of the "tree" referenced in the verse, interpreting it as a euphemism for the cross. He underlines that the choice of words emphasizes both the humiliation and the reality of the crucifixion while also hinting at the redemptive significance of Jesus' death, as it was the means of salvation for all believers.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke points out the significance of the term "witness" in the context of Jewish law, where two or three witnesses were necessary to establish a matter. This underscores the authority and reliability of the apostles' testimony regarding Jesus, suggesting that their collective experience serves to affirm the truth of the gospel message they preached.

Meaning of Key Phrases

• "We are witnesses":

  This phrase is crucial as it establishes the apostles’ role in the early church—a role centered around their direct experiences with Jesus.

• "Slew and hanged on a tree":

  This depicts the brutal nature of Jesus' death, highlighting humanity’s rejection of Him yet setting the stage for the narrative of redemption through His sacrifice.

Application of the Verse

The applications derived from Acts 10:39 are profound for both personal faith and community witness.

• Personal Reflection:

  As believers, reflecting on our own witness of Christ in our lives can deepen our faith and commitment to sharing our testimony with others.

• Community Witness:

  Churches can draw from the apostolic example, fostering environments where personal testimonies and collective experiences of God’s work in believers’ lives are shared and celebrated.

Cross References

Acts 10:39 is related to the following scripture:

• Luke 24:48: "And ye are witnesses of these things."
• 1 Corinthians 15:3-5: This passage discusses the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ, to which the apostles testify.
• Hebrews 12:2: "Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith," emphasizing Jesus’ role as central to the apostolic witness.

Conclusion

In summary, Acts 10:39 serves as a pivotal transition in the book of Acts, emphasizing the apostolic witness of Jesus Christ's life and sacrificial death. Engaging in rigorous Bible verse interpretations and Bible study insights enables believers to deepen their understanding of scripture, appreciating the historical context and contemporary applications. Such study aids in enriching personal faith and equipping communities to share the transformative message of Christ effectively.