Easter · Third Sunday of Easter · Year B
Acts 3:11-21
Peter Speaks to the Onlookers
April 11, 2027
Overview & Insights
“Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out.” (Acts 3:19)
Luke’s report of Peter’s speech in Solomon’s Colonnade very likely contains a genuine recollection of what was actually said on this occasion. But in any case we may regard it as typical of what was generally said at this time by Christians in their approach to Jews. The speech exhibits a more developed Christology than that of the Pentecost address—or at least the Christology is expressed in far richer terms, though these are still distinctively Jewish and of the earliest period of the church. Here Peter stresses the role of Jesus as the Suffering Servant of God and as the Prophet-like-Moses who must be obeyed. “The chosen people with whom God covenanted are challenged to acknowledge Jesus as the fulfillment of ancient prophecy and promises, and are given this chance to return to God before Messiah comes again to bring God’s purposes to fruition” (Neil, p. 84).
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Commentary
Commentary on Acts 3:12-19 Working Preacher
Working Preacher's Lutheran commentary on Peter's temple sermon, valid as the RCL first reading (overlaps 3:11-21).
Acts 3: A Notable Miracle and Sermon Enduring Word · David Guzik
Guzik's evangelical exposition of the healing at the gate and Peter's call to repentance.
Acts 3 Commentary Precept Austin
Precept Austin gathers detailed study notes on Peter's Solomon's-portico sermon.
Acts 3:11 Commentaries BibleHub
Classic commentators on the astonished crowd and Peter's proclamation of the risen Author of life.
Acts 3:12-19 Commentary Center for Excellence in Preaching
A Reformed preaching commentary on repentance and times of refreshing from the Lord.
Background & Word Study
BibleProject: Book of Acts Overview BibleProject
An animated overview of Acts and the apostolic preaching of the resurrection.
Acts 3:11 Interlinear BibleHub
Greek-English interlinear for word study on archegos (Author or Prince) of life and apokatastasis (restoration).
Acts, Enter the Bible Enter the Bible
Luther Seminary background on the structure and themes of Acts.
The Church Fathers
Questions preachers ask
What does Peter preach after the healing?
When the crowd marvels at the healed lame man, Peter turns their wonder to Christ: the Author of life whom they crucified God raised, and he calls them to repent and be restored.
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