Acts 13:31 – “And for many days he was seen by those who had traveled with him from Galilee to Jerusalem. They are now his witnesses to our people.”

Extended Explanation

In this verse, Paul continues his sermon in the synagogue at Pisidian Antioch, explaining how Jesus was not only raised from the dead but also seen by many witnesses. This is critical because the resurrection was not just a spiritual idea or a myth—it was a historical event verified by real people.

Paul points out that Jesus appeared to those who had followed Him from Galilee to Jerusalem, meaning His closest disciples and other followers. These weren’t just random individuals, but people who had walked with Him, knew Him personally, and could confidently testify that He was truly alive.

Now, these eyewitnesses were spreading the message. They weren’t keeping it to themselves—they were “witnesses to our people,” boldly telling others what they had seen and experienced. Paul is making it clear that the resurrection was not a hidden event but a public truth that had been proclaimed by reliable witnesses.

Historical Context

After Jesus rose from the dead, He appeared to His disciples and others over a period of 40 days before ascending to heaven (Acts 1:3). The Gospels and other New Testament writings confirm that many people saw Him alive, including:

• Mary Magdalene (John 20:11-18)
• The two disciples on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35)
• The eleven apostles (Luke 24:36-49)
• Thomas, who initially doubted but later believed (John 20:24-29)
• Over 500 people at once (1 Corinthians 15:6)

The phrase “those who had traveled with him from Galilee to Jerusalem” refers to His disciples, who had spent years following Him and knew Him well. If anyone could confirm whether He was really alive, it was them.

Paul also emphasizes that these witnesses were still alive and actively sharing their testimony. This means that anyone who doubted could go and ask them directly. This was not a distant legend—it was a living truth being proclaimed at that very moment.

Theological Implications

This verse highlights several key theological truths:

1. The Resurrection is a Historical Fact – The foundation of Christianity is not based on emotions or personal experiences alone but on a real, verifiable event.
2. Eyewitness Testimony Strengthens Faith – Christianity does not ask people to believe blindly; it is based on credible testimony from those who saw Jesus alive.
3. The Importance of Witnessing – Those who saw Jesus alive could not stay silent. They were called to testify, just as we are today.
4. God Provides Evidence – God did not expect people to believe in Jesus’ resurrection without proof. He ensured that many saw Him alive so that their testimony could be passed down to future generations.

Literary Analysis

Paul’s sermon follows a pattern of building evidence:

1. He recounts Israel’s history.
2. He presents Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s promises.
3. He explains Jesus’ death and resurrection.
4. Now, he emphasizes that the resurrection was confirmed by witnesses.

The phrase “for many days he was seen” highlights that Jesus did not just appear once. He repeatedly showed Himself to different people, reinforcing that His resurrection was real.

The word “witnesses” is crucial. In legal terms, a witness provides testimony about what they have personally seen. The fact that multiple people witnessed the same event gives credibility to the truth of the resurrection.

Biblical Cross-References

• Luke 24:36-43 – Jesus appears to His disciples and even eats with them to prove He is physically alive.
• John 20:24-29 – Thomas touches Jesus’ wounds and declares, “My Lord and my God!”
• Acts 1:3 – Jesus appeared to His disciples for 40 days, providing “many convincing proofs.”
• 1 Corinthians 15:3-8 – Paul lists the eyewitnesses of the resurrection, including 500 people at one time.
• 2 Peter 1:16 – “We did not follow cleverly devised stories… but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty.”

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For believers today, this verse is a powerful reminder that our faith is built on a solid foundation. We don’t follow myths or legends—we follow the truth of a risen Savior who was seen, touched, and heard by real people.

This also challenges us to be witnesses like those early disciples. We may not have seen Jesus in person, but we have the testimony of Scripture and the transformation He has brought into our lives. Just as they boldly proclaimed what they saw, we are called to share what Jesus has done for us.

Additionally, this verse reassures us in times of doubt. When life is difficult or when people challenge our faith, we can stand firm knowing that Christianity is not based on feelings but on the rock-solid truth of the resurrection.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God did not leave us wondering whether Jesus really rose from the dead. He provided many witnesses to confirm the truth. This shows His love and kindness—He doesn’t expect us to believe without evidence.

God also calls people to be part of His plan. Instead of simply announcing the resurrection in a supernatural way, He chose ordinary men and women to be His witnesses. This shows that God wants a personal relationship with people and that He works through us to spread His message of love and salvation.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

This verse directly points to Jesus as the risen Lord.

1. Jesus Proved He Was Alive – He didn’t just rise from the dead and disappear; He stayed for 40 days, showing Himself to many.
2. Jesus Calls Witnesses – His resurrection wasn’t meant to be a secret. He appeared to people so that they would spread the truth.
3. Jesus is the Living Savior – Unlike other religious leaders who died and stayed dead, Jesus is alive, and His followers could confirm it.
4. Jesus Empowers His Disciples – Those who saw Him became bold witnesses, even willing to die for their testimony (Acts 4:33). This transformation proves that they truly encountered the risen Christ.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Why is it important that Jesus’ resurrection was witnessed by many people?
2. How does knowing that real people saw Jesus alive strengthen your faith?
3. In what ways can you be a witness for Jesus in your own life?
4. Why do you think God chose to spread the truth of Jesus’ resurrection through human witnesses instead of just revealing it supernaturally?
5. How does this verse challenge you to share your faith with others?

This verse is a powerful reminder that Jesus’ resurrection is a well-documented reality, not just a religious idea. The early believers boldly testified about what they saw, and now it is our turn to carry that message to the world. Because He lives, we have confidence, hope, and a mission to be His witnesses.