Acts 17:3 Meaning and Explanation
“Opening and alleging, that Christ must needs have suffered, and risen again from the dead; and that this Jesus, whom I preach unto you, is Christ.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Paul's case has two steps: the Scriptures foretold a Messiah who must suffer and rise, and Jesus is that Messiah.
What Does Acts 17:3 Mean?
Luke summarizes what those three sabbaths contained. Paul was "opening" the Scriptures -- unfolding passages such as Isaiah 53 and Psalm 16 -- and "alleging," laying the evidence alongside them, to show that the Messiah had to suffer and rise from the dead. Then came the identification on which everything turns: this Jesus, whom I preach unto you, is Christ.
A crucified Messiah was the great stumbling block, so Paul shows from Scripture that it was the plan all along -- the Christ "must needs have suffered." The cross was not a defeat hastily reversed but the appointed road to glory, and the resurrection its public vindication. All true preaching lands where Paul lands: not on an idea but on a person -- Jesus, the Christ.
Acts 17:3 in the Original Language
dianoigo (διανοίγω), 'opening' -- to open up thoroughly, to explain.
Frequently Asked Questions About Acts 17:3
What does Acts 17:3 mean?
Paul's case has two steps: the Scriptures foretold a Messiah who must suffer and rise, and Jesus is that Messiah.