King James Version

What Does Acts 3:15 Mean?

“And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses. Prince: or, Author”

Context

The God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, hath glorified his Son Jesus; whom ye delivered up, and denied him in the presence of Pilate, when he was determined to let him go.

But ye denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer to be granted unto you;

And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses. Prince: or, Author

And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all.

And now, brethren, I wot that through ignorance ye did it, as did also your rulers.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(15) **And killed the Prince of life.**—The word translated “Prince” is applied to Christ here and in Acts 5:31. In Hebrews 2:10 we meet with it in “the *Captain* of their salvation;” in Hebrews 12:2, in “the *Author* and Finisher of our faith.” Its primary meaning, like that of prince (*princeps*)*, *is one who takes the lead—who is the originator of that to which the title is attached. The “Prince of life,” the “Captain of salvation,” is accordingly He who is the source from which life and salvation flow. In the LXX. of the Old Testament it is used for the “chieftains” or “princes” of Moab and the like (Numbers 13:3; Numbers 24:17). **Whereof we are witnesses.**—St. Peter falls back, as in Acts 2:32 (where see Note), on this attestation to the one central fact.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Acts. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Acts 3:15 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.