Acts 1

Parallel Chapters and Verses, Greek and Hebrew Lexicon, Commentaries, Strong's Bible Dictionary, Concordances and Cross References for Acts 1 Acts: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Acts 1:1 New American Standard Bible: The first account I composed, Theophilus, about all that Jesus began to do and teach, God's Word Translation: In my first book, Theophilus, I wrote about what Jesus began to do and teach. This included everything from the beginning of his life King James Version: The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach, Bible in Basic English: I have given an earlier account, O Theophilus, of all the things which Jesus did, and of his teaching from the first, Weymouth New Testament: My former narrative, Theophilus, dealt with all that Jesus did and taught as a beginning, down to the day on which, World English Bible: The first book I wrote, Theophilus, concerned all that Jesus began both to do and to teach, Alphabetical: about account all and began book composed do first former I In Jesus my teach that The Theophilus to wrote GSB: 1:1 The {1} former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to {a} do and teach, (1) Luke switches over from the history of the Gospel, that is from the history of the sayings and doings of Christ, unto the Acts of the Apostles. (a) The acts of Jesus are the miracles and deeds which showed his Godhead, and his most perfect holiness, and examples of his doctrine. PNT: 1:1 Waiting for the Holy Spirit SUMMARY OF ACTS 1: The Preface. The Command to Witness. The Ascension. The Charge of the Angels. The Week of Prayer. The Fate of Judas. The Choice of an Apostle. The former treatise. Luke's Gospel. Luke, whose history of Acts is really a continuation of the history of his Gospel, very naturally refers to the former. Theophilus. See PNT Lu 1:3. WES: 1:1 The former treatise - In that important season which reached from the resurrection of Christ to his ascension, the former treatise ends, and this begins: this describing the Acts of the Holy Ghost, (by the apostles,) as that does the acts of Jesus Christ. Of all things - In a summary manner: which Jesus began to do - until the day - That is, of all things which Jesus did from the beginning till that day. MHC: 1:1-5 Our Lord told the disciples the work they were to do. The apostles met together at Jerusalem; Christ having ordered them not to depart thence, but to wait for the pouring out of the Holy Spirit. This would be a baptism by the Holy Ghost, giving them power to work miracles, and enlightening and sanctifying their souls. This confirms the Divine promise, and encourages us to depend upon it, that we have heard it from Christ; for in Him all the promises of God are yea and amen. Acts 1:2 New American Standard Bible: until the day when He was taken up to heaven, after He had by the Holy Spirit given orders to the apostles whom He had chosen. God's Word Translation: until the day he was taken to heaven. Before he was taken to heaven, he gave instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles, whom he had chosen. King James Version: Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen: Bible in Basic English: Till the day when he was taken up to heaven after he had given his orders, through the Holy Spirit, to the Apostles of whom he had made selection: Weymouth New Testament: after giving instruction through the Holy Spirit to the Apostles whom He had chosen, He was taken up to Heaven. World English Bible: until the day in which he was received up, after he had given commandment through the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom he had chosen. Alphabetical: after apostles by chosen day given giving had he heaven Holy instructions orders Spirit taken the through to until up was when whom PNT: 1:2 Through the Holy Ghost. Jesus received the Spirit without measure, and all he did was in the Spirit. He also imparted a measure of the Spirit, before he ascended, to the apostles to help them in their work (Joh 20:22). Commandments. The Great Commission. (Joh 20:22 Mt 28:18-20 Mr 16:15-16 Lu 24:49). WES: 1:2 After having given commandment - In the 3d verse Acts 1:3 St. Luke expresses in general terms what Christ said to his apostles during those forty days. But in the 4th Acts 1:4 and following verse s he declares what he said on the day of his ascension. He had brought his former account down to that day; and from that day begins the Acts of the Apostles. MHC: Acts 1:3 New American Standard Bible: To these He also presented Himself alive after His suffering, by many convincing proofs, appearing to them over a period of forty days and speaking of the things concerning the kingdom of God. God's Word Translation: After his death Jesus showed the apostles a lot of convincing evidence that he was alive. For 40 days he appeared to them and talked with them about the kingdom of God. King James Version: To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God: Bible in Basic English: And to whom he gave clear and certain signs that he was living, after his death; for he was seen by them for forty days, and gave them teaching about the kingdom of God: Weymouth New Testament: He had also, after He suffered, shown Himself alive to them with many sure proofs, appearing to them at intervals during forty days, and speaking of the Kingdom of God. World English Bible: To these he also showed himself alive after he suffered, by many proofs, appearing to them over a period of forty days, and speaking about God's Kingdom. Alphabetical: a about After alive also and appeared appearing by concerning convincing days forty gave God he himself his kingdom many men of over period presented proofs showed speaking spoke suffering that the them these things to was GSB: 1:3 {2} To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many {b} infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God: (2) Christ did not immediately ascend into heaven after his resurrection in order to thoroughly prove his resurrection, and with his presence strengthen and encourage his Apostles in the doctrine which they had heard. (b) He called those things infallible proofs which are otherwise termed necessary: now in that Christ spoke, and walked, and ate, and was felt by many, these are sure signs and proofs that he truly rose again. PNT: 1:3 To whom he also shewed himself alive. He is a living Savior. Otherwise he could not more be a Savior than Socrates, Buddha, or any other sage. After his passion. Suffering on the cross. Being seen of them forty days. At various times during forty days. Eleven appearances are recorded. There were probably others. Pertaining to the kingdom of God. His church, about to be established on the earth. WES: 1:3 Being seen by them forty days - That is, many times during that space. And speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God - Which was the sum of all his discourses with them before his passion also. MHC: Acts 1:4 New American Standard Bible: Gathering them together, He commanded them not to leave Jerusalem, but to wait for what the Father had promised, "Which," He said, "you heard of from Me; God's Word Translation: Once, while he was meeting with them, he ordered them not to leave Jerusalem but to wait there for what the Father had promised. Jesus said to them, "I've told you what the Father promises: King James Version: And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me. Bible in Basic English: And when they were all together, with him, he gave them orders not to go away from Jerusalem, but to keep there, waiting till the word of the Father was put into effect, of which, he said, I have given you knowledge: Weymouth New Testament: And while in their company He charged them not to leave Jerusalem, but to wait for the Father's promised gift. "This you have heard of," He said, "from me. World English Bible: Being assembled together with them, he commanded them, "Don't depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which you heard from me. Alphabetical: about but command commanded Do eating Father for from Gathering gave gift had have he heard Jerusalem leave me my not occasion of On one promised said speak the them this to together wait was what which while with you GSB: 1:4 And, being {c} assembled together with [them], commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, [saith he], ye have heard of me. (c) They were dispersed here and there, but he gathers them together so that all of them might together be witnesses of his resurrection. PNT: 1:4 Commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem. Because, right in the citadel of his enemies, where he had been slain, the Risen Lord was to be first proclaimed, his Gospel preached, the Holy Spirit shed forth, and his kingdom established. Because, too, the prophet Isaiah had declared that Jerusalem should be the place where the Gospel should be first preached (Isa 2:3,5). But wait for the promise of the Father. See Joe 2:28 Zec 2:10 Joh 14:16 15:26 Mt 3:11. They must wait for the Spirit, that they might speak, on the great day of the inauguration of the kingdom, as the Holy Spirit gave them utterance (Ac 2:4). The conditions of citizenship in the kingdom must be spoken by the Spirit. WES: 1:4 Wait for the promise of the Father, which ye have heard from me - When he was with them a little before, as it is recorded, Luke 24:49. MHC: Acts 1:5 New American Standard Bible: for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now." God's Word Translation: John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit." King James Version: For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. Bible in Basic English: For the baptism of John was with water, but you will have baptism with the Holy Spirit, after a little time. Weymouth New Testament: For John indeed baptized with water, but before many days have passed you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit." World English Bible: For John indeed baptized in water, but you will be baptized in the Holy Spirit not many days from now." Alphabetical: a baptized be but days few For from Holy in John many not now Spirit the water will with you GSB: 1:5 For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized {d} with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. (d) Either by the Father, or by me: so that either the Father or Christ is set here contrasted with John, as the Holy Spirit is contrasted with water, as things that are comparable to one another. PNT: 1:5 John truly baptized with water. They had received John's baptism; they were now to be baptized with the Holy Spirit. Not many days hence. Only ten days after these words were spoken. WES: 1:5 Ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost - And so are all true believers to the end of the world. But the extraordinary gifts of the Holy Ghost also are here promised. MHC: Acts 1:6 New American Standard Bible: So when they had come together, they were asking Him, saying, "Lord, is it at this time You are restoring the kingdom to Israel?" God's Word Translation: So when the apostles came together, they asked him, "Lord, is this the time when you're going to restore the kingdom to Israel?" King James Version: When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? Bible in Basic English: So, when they were together, they said to him, Lord, will you at this time give back the kingdom to Israel? Weymouth New Testament: Once when they were with Him, they asked Him, "Master, is this the time at which you are about to restore the kingdom of Israel?" World English Bible: Therefore, when they had come together, they asked him, "Lord, are you now restoring the kingdom to Israel?" Alphabetical: are asked asking at come going had him is Israel it kingdom Lord met restore restoring saying So the they this time to together were when you GSB: 1:6 {3} When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time {e} restore again the kingdom to Israel? (3) We must fight before we triumph, and we must not search curiously after those things which God has not revealed. (e) To the old and ancient state. PNT: 1:6 Wilt thou at this time, etc.? They still held to their old ideas of a worldly restoration of the kingdom of Israel. Their only question was, Wilt thou restore it 'now' ? After the Holy Spirit was given, this delusion was dismissed, and they understood that Christ's kingdom is not of this world. WES: 1:6 Dost thou at this time - At the time thou now speakest of? not many days hence? restore the kingdom to Israel? - They still seemed to dream of an outward, temporal kingdom, in which the Jews should have dominion over all nations. It seems they came in a body, having before concerted the design, to ask when this kingdom would come. MHC: 1:6-11 They were earnest in asking about that which their Master never had directed or encouraged them to seek. Our Lord knew that his ascension and the teaching of the Holy Spirit would soon end these expectations, and therefore only gave them a rebuke; but it is a caution to his church in all ages, to take heed of a desire of forbidden knowledge. He had given his disciples instructions for the discharge of their duty, both before his death and since his resurrection, and this knowledge is enough for a Christian. It is enough that He has engaged to give believers strength equal to their trials and services; that under the influence of the Holy Spirit they may, in one way or other, be witnesses for Christ on earth, while in heaven he manages their concerns with perfect wisdom, truth, and love. When we stand gazing and trifling, the thoughts of our Master's second coming should quicken and awaken us: when we stand gazing and trembling, they should comfort and encourage us. May our expectation of it be stedfast and joyful, giving diligence to be found of him blameless. Acts 1:7 New American Standard Bible: He said to them, "It is not for you to know times or epochs which the Father has fixed by His own authority; God's Word Translation: Jesus told them, "You don't need to know about times or periods that the Father has determined by his own authority. King James Version: And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. Bible in Basic English: And he said to them, It is not for you to have knowledge of the time and the order of events which the Father has kept in his control. Weymouth New Testament: "It is not for you," He replied, "to know times or epochs which the Father has reserved within His own authority; World English Bible: He said to them, "It isn't for you to know times or seasons which the Father has set within his own authority. Alphabetical: authority by dates epochs Father fixed for has He his is It know not or own said set the them times to which you GSB: 1:7 And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the {f} seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. (f) That is, the proper occasions that provide opportunities for doing matters, which occasions the Lord has appointed to bring things to pass in. PNT: 1:7 It is not for you to know. This was a reproof, not only to them, but to those in all ages who seek to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put into his own power. WES: 1:7 The times or the seasons - Times, in the language of the Scriptures, denote a longer; seasons, a shorter space. Which the Father hath put in his own power - To be revealed when and to whom it pleaseth him. MHC: Acts 1:8 New American Standard Bible: but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth." God's Word Translation: But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes to you. Then you will be my witnesses to testify about me in Jerusalem, throughout Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." King James Version: But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. Bible in Basic English: But you will have power, when the Holy Spirit has come on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and all Judaea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. Weymouth New Testament: and yet you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judaea and Samaria and to the remotest parts of the earth." World English Bible: But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you. You will be witnesses to me in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the uttermost parts of the earth." Alphabetical: all and be both But come comes earth ends even has Holy in Jerusalem Judea my of on part power receive remotest Samaria shall Spirit the to upon when will witnesses you PNT: 1:8 Ye shall receive power. Not temporal power, such as they dreamed of, but spiritual and moral power. Ye shall be witnesses to me. Testify of him of their personal knowledge. They all knew personally of his life, his miracles, his death, his resurrection, and the Great Commission. There could be no mistake. Their witness is true, unless they were deceivers. In Jerusalem. First, in the headquarters of Judaism, the capital of their own country, the place where the Lord was crucified; then in an ever-widening circle from that center; in Judea, then in Samaria, then to the uttermost parts of the earth. This order was followed exactly. It should always be followed in our efforts to evangelize the world. WES: 1:8 But ye shall receive power - and shall be witnesses to me - That is, ye shall be empowered to witness my Gospel, both by your preaching and suffering. MHC: Acts 1:9 New American Standard Bible: And after He had said these things, He was lifted up while they were looking on, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. God's Word Translation: After he had said this, he was taken to heaven. A cloud hid him so that they could no longer see him. King James Version: And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight. Bible in Basic English: And when he had said these things, while they were looking, he was taken up, and went from their view into a cloud. Weymouth New Testament: When He had said this, and while they were looking at Him, He was carried up, and a cloud closing beneath Him hid Him from their sight. World English Bible: When he had said these things, as they were looking, he was taken up, and a cloud received him out of their sight. Alphabetical: a After and before cloud eyes from had he hid him lifted looking of on out received said sight taken their these they things this up very was were while GSB: 1:9 {4} And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight. (4) After Christ had promised the full power of the Holy Spirit, with whom he would govern his church (even though he would be absent in body), he took up his body from us into heavenly tabernacles to remain there until the latter day of judgment, as the angels witness. PNT: 1:9 He was taken up. See PNT Lu 24:50. MHC: Acts 1:10 New American Standard Bible: And as they were gazing intently into the sky while He was going, behold, two men in white clothing stood beside them. God's Word Translation: They were staring into the sky as he departed. Suddenly, two men in white clothes stood near them. King James Version: And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; Bible in Basic English: And while they were looking up to heaven with great attention, two men came to them, in white clothing, Weymouth New Testament: But, while they stood intently gazing into the sky as He went, suddenly there were two men in white garments standing by them, World English Bible: While they were looking steadfastly into the sky as he went, behold, two men stood by them in white clothing, Alphabetical: And as behold beside clothing dressed gazing going he in intently into looking men sky stood suddenly the them They two up was were when while white MHC: Acts 1:11 New American Standard Bible: They also said, "Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky? This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in just the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven." God's Word Translation: They asked, "Why are you men from Galilee standing here looking at the sky? Jesus, who was taken from you to heaven, will come back in the same way that you saw him go to heaven." King James Version: Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven. Bible in Basic English: And said, O men of Galilee, why are you looking up into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken from you into heaven, will come again, in the same way as you saw him go into heaven. Weymouth New Testament: who said, "Galilaeans, why stand looking into the sky? This same Jesus who has been taken up from you into Heaven will come in just the same way as you have seen Him going into Heaven." World English Bible: who also said, "You men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky? This Jesus, who was received up from you into the sky will come back in the same way as you saw him going into the sky." Alphabetical: also as back been come do from Galilee go has have heaven here him in into Jesus just looking Men of said same seen sky stand taken the they This up watched way who why will you GSB: 1:11 Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up {g} from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven. (g) That is, out of your sight. PNT: 1:11 Ye men of Galilee. The apostles were mostly, if not all, Galileans. This same Jesus... shall so come. The cloud received him from their sight. He shall come in the clouds of heaven (Da 7:13 Mt 24:30 26:24). MHC: Acts 1:12 New American Standard Bible: Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is near Jerusalem, a Sabbath day's journey away. God's Word Translation: Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mountain called the Mount of Olives. It is near Jerusalem, about half a mile away. King James Version: Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is from Jerusalem a sabbath day's journey. Bible in Basic English: Then they went back to Jerusalem from the mountain named Olivet, which is near Jerusalem, a Sabbath day's journey away. Weymouth New Testament: Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mountain called the Oliveyard, which is near Jerusalem, about a mile off. World English Bible: Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mountain called Olivet, which is near Jerusalem, a Sabbath day's journey away. Alphabetical: a away called city day's from hill is Jerusalem journey Mount near of Olives Olivet returned Sabbath the Then they to walk which GSB: 1:12 Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is from Jerusalem a sabbath {h} day's journey. (h) About two miles. PNT: 1:12 Then returned they... from the mount called Olivet. See Lu 24:50. The place of ascent was near Bethany. A church now stands on the supposed place. A sabbath day's journey. The traditions of the elders defined the distance that might be traveled on the Sabbath. It was a little less than a mile. Bethany is nearly two miles, but Luke here is stating the distance of the Mount of Olives from the city. WES: 1:12 A Sabbath - day's journey - The Jews generally fix this to two thousand cubits, which is not a mile. MHC: 1:12-14 God can find hiding-places for his people. They made supplication. All God's people are praying people. It was now a time of trouble and danger with the disciples of Christ; but if any is afflicted, let him pray; that will silence cares and fears. They had now a great work to do, and before they entered upon it, they were earnest in prayer to God for his presence. They were waiting for the descent of the Spirit, and abounded in prayer. Those are in the best frame to receive spiritual blessings, who are in a praying frame. Christ had promised shortly to send the Holy Ghost; that promise was not to do away prayer, but to quicken and encourage it. A little company united in love, exemplary in their conduct, fervent in prayer, and wisely zealous to promote the cause of Christ, are likely to increase rapidly. Acts 1:13 New American Standard Bible: When they had entered the city, they went up to the upper room where they were staying; that is, Peter and John and James and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon the Zealot, and Judas the son of James. God's Word Translation: When they came into the city, Peter, John, James, Andrew, Philip, Thomas, Bartholomew, Matthew, James (son of Alphaeus), Simon the Zealot, and Judas (son of James) went to the second-story room where they were staying. King James Version: And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James. Bible in Basic English: And when they came in, they went up into the room where they were living; Peter and John and James and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James, the son of Alphaeus, and Simon the Zealot, and Judas, the son of James. Weymouth New Testament: They entered the city, and they went up to the upper room which was now their fixed place for meeting. Their names were Peter and John, James and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas the brother of James. World English Bible: When they had come in, they went up into the upper room, where they were staying; that is Peter, John, James, Andrew, Philip, Thomas, Bartholomew, Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas the son of James. Alphabetical: Alphaeus and Andrew arrived Bartholomew city entered had is James John Judas Matthew of Peter Philip present room Simon son staying that the they Thomas Those to up upper upstairs went were When where Zealot GSB: 1:13 {5} And when they were {i} come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James [the son] of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas [the brother] of James. (5) Ecclesiastical assemblies to hear the word, and to make common prayer, were first instituted and kept in private houses by the Apostles. (i) They went into the house which the Church had chosen at that time to be a gathering place for the whole assembly. PNT: 1:13 Went into an upper room. A guest chamber on the second floor. Where abode. All the apostles are named except Judas Iscariot, who had fallen away and was now dead. WES: 1:13 They went up into the upper room - The upper rooms, so frequently mentioned in Scripture, were chambers in the highest part of the house, set apart by the Jews for private prayer. These, on account of their being so retired and convenient, the apostles now used for all the offices of religion. Matt 10:2; Mark 3:14; Luke 6:13. MHC: Acts 1:14 New American Standard Bible: These all with one mind were continually devoting themselves to prayer, along with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers. God's Word Translation: The apostles had a single purpose as they devoted themselves to prayer. They were joined by some women, including Mary (the mother of Jesus), and they were joined by his brothers. King James Version: These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren. Bible in Basic English: And they all with one mind gave themselves up to prayer, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers. Weymouth New Testament: All of these with one mind continued earnest in prayer, together with some women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and His brothers. World English Bible: All these with one accord continued steadfastly in prayer and supplication, along with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers. Alphabetical: all along and brothers constantly continually devoting his in Jesus joined Mary mind mother of one prayer the themselves These They to together were with women GSB: 1:14 These all {k} continued with {l} one accord in {m} prayer and supplication, with the {n} women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his {o} brethren. (k) The Greek word signifies an invincible constancy and steadfastness. (l) It is to good purpose that this agreement is mentioned: for those prayers are most acceptable to God which are made with agreeing minds and wills. (m) The disciples prayed for the sending of the Holy Spirit, and also to be delivered from present dangers, of which there were many that they were experiencing. (n) For it was appropriate to have the wives strengthened and encouraged who would afterwards be partakers of the dangers with their husbands. (o) With his relatives. PNT: 1:14 These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication. The latter clause is omitted in the Revised Version. They were waiting for the promise of the Father (Ac 1:4), and the time was spent in worship. There were ten days of prayer, the best preparation for the Pentecostal blessing; an example to all churches which seek an ingathering of souls. With the women. Especially those women who had followed and ministered to the Lord, lingered at his cross, and at his tomb. Mary. This is the last time she is named in the sacred history. Tradition reports that she lived until the near the time of the overthrow of Jerusalem. His brethren. The sons of Joseph and Mary. One of them, James, was afterwards the James of Jerusalem and the author of the Epistle of James. See Ac 15:13 Mt 13:55. They were unbelievers six months before (Joh 7:5), but now believed. James had seen the risen Lord (1Co 15:7). WES: 1:14 His brethren - His near kinsmen, who for some time did not believe; it seems not till near his death. MHC: Acts 1:15 New American Standard Bible: At this time Peter stood up in the midst of the brethren (a gathering of about one hundred and twenty persons was there together), and said, God's Word Translation: At a time when about 120 disciples had gathered together, Peter got up and spoke to them. He said, King James Version: And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,) Bible in Basic English: And in those days Peter got up among the brothers (there were about one hundred and twenty of them), and said, Weymouth New Testament: It was on one of these days that Peter stood up in the midst of the brethren--the entire number of persons present being about 120--and said, World English Bible: In these days, Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples (and the number of names was about one hundred twenty), and said, Alphabetical: a a about among and At believers brethren days gathering group hundred In midst numbering of one persons Peter said stood the there this those time together twenty twenty up was GSB: 1:15 {6} And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of {p} names together were about an hundred and twenty,) (6) Peter is made the spokesman and interpreter of the whole company of the Apostles, either by secret revelation of the Holy Spirit, or by the express judgment of the congregation. (p) Because men are commonly referred to and enrolled by their names. PNT: 1:15 And in those days. The interval of ten days. Were about an hundred and twenty. This was the number of disciples at Jerusalem, but not all who were then disciples. See 1Co 15:6. WES: 1:15 The number of persons together - Who were together in the upper room. were a hundred and twenty - But he had undoubtedly many more in other places; of whom more than five hundred saw him at once after his resurrection, 1Cor 15:6. MHC: 1:15-26 The great thing the apostles were to attest to the world, was, Christ's resurrection; for that was the great proof of his being the Messiah, and the foundation of our hope in him. The apostles were ordained, not to wordly dignity and dominion, but to preach Christ, and the power of his resurrection. An appeal was made to God; Thou, Lord, who knowest the hearts of all men, which we do not; and better than they know their own. It is fit that God should choose his own servants; and so far as he, by the disposals of his providence, or the gifts of his Spirit, shows whom he was chosen, or what he has chosen for us, we ought to fall in with his will. Let us own his hand in the determining everything which befalls us, especially in those by which any trust may be committed to us. Acts 1:16 New American Standard Bible: "Brethren, the Scripture had to be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit foretold by the mouth of David concerning Judas, who became a guide to those who arrested Jesus. God's Word Translation: "Brothers, what the Holy Spirit predicted through David in Scripture about Judas had to come true. Judas led the men to arrest Jesus. King James Version: Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus. Bible in Basic English: My brothers, the word of God had to be put into effect, which the Holy Spirit had said before, by the mouth of David, about Judas, who was guide to those who took Jesus, Weymouth New Testament: "Brethren, it was necessary that the Scripture should be fulfilled--the prediction, I mean, which the Holy Spirit uttered by the lips of David, about Judas, who acted as guide to those who arrested Jesus. World English Bible: "Brothers, it was necessary that this Scripture should be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit spoke before by the mouth of David concerning Judas, who was guide to those who took Jesus. Alphabetical: a ago and arrested as be became Brethren Brothers by concerning David for foretold fulfilled guide had Holy Jesus Judas long mouth of said Scripture served Spirit spoke the those through to which who GSB: 1:16 {7} Men [and] brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus. (7) Peter anticipates the offence that might be taken at the falling away of Judas the betrayer, showing that all things which happened to him were foretold by God. PNT: 1:16 This scripture must needs have been fulfilled. Ps 69:26. WES: 1:16 Psa 41:9. MHC: Acts 1:17 New American Standard Bible: "For he was counted among us and received his share in this ministry." God's Word Translation: He had been one of us and had been given an active role in this ministry. King James Version: For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry. Bible in Basic English: For he was numbered among us, and had his part in our work. Weymouth New Testament: For Judas was reckoned as one of our number, and a share in this ministry was allotted to him." World English Bible: For he was numbered with us, and received his portion in this ministry. Alphabetical: among and counted For he his in ministry number of one our received share shared this us was MHC: Acts 1:18 New American Standard Bible: (Now this man acquired a field with the price of his wickedness, and falling headlong, he burst open in the middle and all his intestines gushed out. God's Word Translation: With the money he received from the wrong he had done, he bought a piece of land where he fell headfirst to his death. His body split open, and all his internal organs came out. King James Version: Now this man purchased a field with the reward of iniquity; and falling headlong, he burst asunder in the midst, and all his bowels gushed out. Bible in Basic English: (Now this man, with the reward of his evil-doing, got for himself a field, and falling head first, came to a sudden and violent end there. Weymouth New Testament: (Now having bought a piece of ground with the money paid for his wickedness he fell there with his face downwards, and, his body bursting open, he became disembowelled. World English Bible: Now this man obtained a field with the reward for his wickedness, and falling headlong, his body burst open, and all his intestines gushed out. Alphabetical: Now With a acquired all and body bought burst falling fell field for got gushed he headlong his in intestines Judas man middle of open out price reward spilled the there this wickedness with GSB: 1:18 Now this man {q} purchased a field with the reward of iniquity; and {r} falling headlong, he burst asunder in the midst, and all his bowels gushed out. (q) Luke did not consider Judas' purpose, but that which followed it, and so we used to say that a man has done himself harm, not that he wanted and intended to, but in respect of that which followed. (r) The Greek words signify this much, that Judas fell down flat and was torn apart in the middle, with a tremendously great noise. PNT: 1:18 This man purchased a field. He returned the bribe money to the priests, who used it to purchase the potter's field. Peter here intends to say that his money bought the field. The Greek verb ktaomai, rendered purchased, has the form that means caused to be purchased. Falling headlong. Mt 27:5 says he hanged himself. Peter tells some additional particulars, which Matthew omitted. He probably hanged himself on a tree projecting over the precipices of the Valley of Hinnom, and afterwards, on account of the rope or limb breaking, fell headlong with such force as to burst his body open on the jagged rocks. This is the traditional account of his death. WES: 1:18 This man purchased a field with the reward of iniquity - That is, a field was purchased with the reward of his iniquity; though very possibly Judas might design the purchase. And falling down on his face - It seems the rope broke before, or as he died. MHC: Acts 1:19 New American Standard Bible: And it became known to all who were living in Jerusalem; so that in their own language that field was called Hakeldama, that is, Field of Blood.) God's Word Translation: Everyone living in Jerusalem knows about this. They even call that piece of land Akeldama, which means 'Field of Blood' in their dialect. King James Version: And it was known unto all the dwellers at Jerusalem; insomuch as that field is called in their proper tongue, Aceldama, that is to say, The field of blood. Bible in Basic English: And this came to the knowledge of all those who were living in Jerusalem, so that the field was named in their language, Akel-dama, or, The field of blood.) Weymouth New Testament: This fact became widely known to the people of Jerusalem, so that the place received the name, in their language, of Achel-damach, which means 'The Field of Blood.') World English Bible: It became known to everyone who lived in Jerusalem that in their language that field was called'Akeldama,' that is,'The field of blood.' Alphabetical: about Akeldama all And became Blood called Everyone field Hakeldama heard in is it Jerusalem known language living of own so that their they this to was were who PNT: 1:19 That field is called... Aceldama. The field bought with the bribe money of Judas. He came to such a bloody end that this, and the origin of the purchase money, gave the field its name. WES: 1:19 In their own tongue - This expression, That is, the field of blood, St. Luke seems to have added to the words of St. Peter, for the use of Theophilus and other readers who did not understand Hebrew. MHC: Acts 1:20 New American Standard Bible: "For it is written in the book of Psalms, 'LET HIS HOMESTEAD BE MADE DESOLATE, AND LET NO ONE DWELL IN IT'; and, 'LET ANOTHER MAN TAKE HIS OFFICE.' God's Word Translation: You've read in Psalms, 'Let his home be deserted, and let no one live there,' and 'Let someone else take his position.' " "Therefore, someone must be added to our number to serve with us as a witness that Jesus came back to life. King James Version: For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishoprick let another take. Bible in Basic English: For in the book of Psalms it says, Let his house be waste, and let no man be living in it: and, Let his position be taken by another. Weymouth New Testament: "For it is written in the Book of Psalms, "'Let his encampment be desolate: let there be no one to dwell there'; and "'His work let another take up.' World English Bible: For it is written in the book of Psalms,'Let his habitation be made desolate. Let no one dwell therein;' and,'Let another take his office.' Alphabetical: and another be book deserted desolate dwell For his homestead in is it leadership' let made man May no of office' one Peter place Psalms said take the there to written GSB: 1:20 For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his {s} bishoprick let another take. (s) His office and ministry: David wrote these words against Doeg the King's herdsman: and these words shepherd, sheep, and flock are used with reference to the Church office and ministry, so that the Church and the offices are called by these names. PNT: 1:20 His office let another take. This is, rather, an application of the spirit of Ps 109:8. than its exact words. It sets forth the desert of persecutors. WES: 1:20 His bishopric - That is, his apostleship. Psa 69:25. MHC: Acts 1:21 New American Standard Bible: "Therefore it is necessary that of the men who have accompanied us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us-- God's Word Translation: He must be one of the men who accompanied Jesus with us the entire time that the Lord Jesus was among us. King James Version: Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, Bible in Basic English: For this reason, of the men who have been with us all the time, while the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, Weymouth New Testament: "It is necessary, therefore, that of the men who have been with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us-- World English Bible: "Of the men therefore who have accompanied us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, Alphabetical: accompanied all among and been choose have in is it Jesus Lord men necessary of one out that the Therefore time to us us- went who whole with GSB: 1:21 {8} Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus {t} went in and out among us, (8) The Apostles do not deliberate at all, but first they consult and take guidance from God's word: and again they do nothing that concerns and is incumbent upon the whole body of the congregation, without making the congregation a part of the decision. (t) This kind of speech signifies as much in the Hebrew language as the exercising of a public and difficult office, when they speak of such as are in any public office; De 31:2; 1Ch 27:1. PNT: 1:21,22 Wherefore, etc. These verses set forth the necessary qualifications of an apostle. In order to be a witness, he must have (1) been a disciple of John, (2) left him in order to follow Jesus, (3) attended his ministry, and (4) seen him after his resurrection. He must be able to testify of all these as an eye witness. WES: 1:21 All the time that the Lord Jesus was going in and out - That is, conversing familiarly: over us - as our Master. Psa 109:8. MHC: Acts 1:22 New American Standard Bible: beginning with the baptism of John until the day that He was taken up from us-- one of these must become a witness with us of His resurrection." God's Word Translation: This person must have been with us from the time that John was baptizing people to the day that Jesus was taken from us." King James Version: Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection. Bible in Basic English: Starting from the baptism of John till he went up from us, one will have to be a witness with us of his coming back from death. Weymouth New Testament: beginning from His baptism by John down to the day on which He was taken up again from us into Heaven--one should be appointed to become a witness with us as to His resurrection." World English Bible: beginning from the baptism of John, to the day that he was received up from us, of these one must become a witness with us of his resurrection." Alphabetical: a baptism become beginning day For from He his Jesus John John's must of one resurrection taken that the these time to until up us us-one was when with witness GSB: 1:22 Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up {u} from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection. (u) From our company. PNT: 1:21,22 Wherefore, etc. These verses set forth the necessary qualifications of an apostle. In order to be a witness, he must have (1) been a disciple of John, (2) left him in order to follow Jesus, (3) attended his ministry, and (4) seen him after his resurrection. He must be able to testify of all these as an eye witness. WES: 1:22 To be a witness with us of his resurrection - And of the circumstances which preceded and followed it. MHC: Acts 1:23 New American Standard Bible: So they put forward two men, Joseph called Barsabbas (who was also called Justus), and Matthias. God's Word Translation: The disciples determined that two men were qualified. These men were Joseph (who was called Barsabbas and was also known as Justus) and Matthias. King James Version: And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias. Bible in Basic English: And they made selection of two, Joseph, named Barsabbas, whose other name was Justus, and Matthias. Weymouth New Testament: So two names were proposed, Joseph called Bar-sabbas--and surnamed Justus--and Matthias. World English Bible: They put forward two, Joseph called Barsabbas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias. Alphabetical: also who also and as Barsabbas called forward Joseph Justus known Matthias men proposed put So they two was GSB: 1:23 {9} And they {x} appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias. (9) The Apostles must be chosen immediately from God: and therefore after praying, Matthias is chose by lot, which is as it were God's own voice. (x) Openly, and by the voices of the entire company. PNT: 1:23 They appointed two. Not the apostles, but the brethren, men who met these conditions, then cast lots between them in order that the Lord might make the choice. The two men named are not mentioned elsewhere. WES: 1:23 And they appointed two - So far the faithful could go by consulting together, but no further. Therefore here commenced the proper use of the lot, whereby a matter of importance, which cannot be determined by any ordinary method, is committed to the Divine decision. MHC: Acts 1:24 New American Standard Bible: And they prayed and said, "You, Lord, who know the hearts of all men, show which one of these two You have chosen God's Word Translation: Then they prayed, "Lord, you know everyone's thoughts. Show us which of these two you have chosen. King James Version: And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen, Bible in Basic English: And they made prayers and said, Lord, having knowledge of the hearts of all men, make clear which of these two has been marked out by you, Weymouth New Testament: And the brethren prayed, saying, "Thou, Lord, who knowest the hearts of all, show clearly which of these two Thou hast chosen World English Bible: They prayed, and said, "You, Lord, who know the hearts of all men, show which one of these two you have chosen Alphabetical: all And chosen everyone's have heart hearts know Lord men of one prayed said Show the Then these they two us which who you PNT: 1:24 They prayed. That the Lord might choose between them. A choice of men for any responsible church work ought to be made with earnest prayer. It is likely that one of the apostles offered the prayer, all joining in the petition. MHC: Acts 1:25 New American Standard Bible: to occupy this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside to go to his own place." God's Word Translation: Show us who is to take the place of Judas as an apostle, since Judas abandoned his position to go to the place where he belongs." King James Version: That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place. Bible in Basic English: To take that position as a servant and Apostle, from which Judas by his sin was shut out, so that he might go to his place. Weymouth New Testament: to occupy the place in this ministry and Apostleship from which Judas through transgression fell, in order to go to his own place." World English Bible: to take part in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas fell away, that he might go to his own place." Alphabetical: and apostleship apostolic aside belongs from go he his Judas left ministry occupy over own place take this to turned where which GSB: 1:25 That he may take {y} part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression {z} fell, that he might go to his own place. (y) That he may be a member and partaker of this ministry. (z) Departed from, or fallen from: and it is a metaphor taken from the word way: for callings are signified by the name of ways with the Hebrews. WES: 1:25 Fell - By his transgression - Some time before his death: to go to his own place - That which his crimes had deserved, and which he had chosen for himself, far from the other apostles, in the region of death. MHC: Acts 1:26 New American Standard Bible: And they drew lots for them, and the lot fell to Matthias; and he was added to the eleven apostles. God's Word Translation: They drew names to choose an apostle. Matthias was chosen and joined the eleven apostles. King James Version: And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles. Bible in Basic English: And they put it to the decision of chance, and the decision was given for Matthias, and he was numbered with the eleven Apostles. Weymouth New Testament: Then they drew lots between them. The lot fell on Matthias, and a place among the eleven Apostles was voted to him. World English Bible: They drew lots for them, and the lot fell on Matthias, and he was numbered with the eleven apostles. Alphabetical: added and apostles cast drew eleven fell for he lot lots Matthias so the them Then they to was PNT: 1:26 The lot fell upon Matthias. Some have held that the choice of Matthias was unauthorized and that he was never accepted as an apostle. The reasons for this view are that he is not named again, and Paul was finally chosen as an apostle. To this it may be replied: (1) Neither are more than half the other names in the apostolic band again mentioned, Thomas, Thaddeus and Bartholomew, for example. (2) Paul was not an apostle to the Jews, but to the Gentiles, and hence, not one of the Twelve. (3) There is no hint anywhere in Acts, or elsewhere, that the selection of Matthias was not recognized. (4) In Ac 6:2 the twelve are spoken of, and he must have been one of the twelve, for Paul was not yet converted. These facts show that such speculations as those referred to above are without foundation. MHC: Online Parallel Bible NASB, GWT, KJV, NIV, GWT, NLT, ASV, Matthew Henry's Commentary, Chapter and Verse Old and New Testament Christian Bible Study, Concordance, Chain Links, Cross Reference for pastors, teachers and students