Acts 26:8 – “Why should any of you consider it incredible that God raises the dead?”
Extended Explanation
Paul asks this question as he defends himself before King Agrippa. He challenges his listeners—many of whom believe in God—to consider why the idea of resurrection should be so hard to accept. If God is truly all-powerful, then raising the dead should not be impossible.
This question is both logical and theological. Paul is speaking to an audience that includes Jews who already believe in a future resurrection and Romans who believe in gods with supernatural abilities. He is pointing out that rejecting the idea of resurrection is inconsistent for those who claim to believe in God’s power.
Paul is making a direct connection between God’s ability to give life and the resurrection of Jesus. If God can raise the dead, then Jesus’ resurrection is not only possible but expected. This was the core message that Paul preached—the resurrection of Christ is proof of God’s power and the foundation of Christian hope.
Historical Context
Paul is standing trial because he preaches that Jesus rose from the dead. This was controversial among Jewish leaders, especially the Sadducees, who denied the resurrection (Acts 23:8). However, the Pharisees did believe in resurrection, making Paul’s question particularly pointed—why were they rejecting the very thing they claimed to believe?
For the Roman officials in the audience, resurrection was not a common belief. Many Greeks and Romans thought of the afterlife as a shadowy existence rather than a bodily resurrection. Paul’s challenge forces them to consider whether the God of Israel is truly all-powerful.
At the heart of this debate is Jesus’ resurrection. The Jewish leaders rejected it because they refused to accept Jesus as the Messiah. The Romans dismissed it because it did not fit their worldview. But Paul insists that belief in resurrection is a logical outcome of believing in an all-powerful God.
Theological Implications
This verse emphasizes God’s limitless power. If God created life, then raising the dead is well within His ability. The resurrection is not just a possibility—it is a reality that confirms God’s power and faithfulness.
It also highlights the central message of the Christian faith. Paul is not on trial for a political crime but for proclaiming Jesus’ resurrection. Without the resurrection, there is no Christianity (1 Corinthians 15:14-17).
Paul’s question also challenges human skepticism. Many people struggle with faith because they limit God to what they can understand. But faith requires believing that God can do what is beyond human comprehension (Isaiah 55:8-9).
Literary Analysis
Paul uses a rhetorical question to make his audience think. He does not directly accuse them but invites them to consider their own beliefs. This is a powerful way to challenge assumptions without causing immediate defensiveness.
The structure of the question is also significant. By saying, “Why should any of you consider it incredible,” he makes the issue personal. He is not just talking about abstract theology—he is confronting the biases of his listeners.
The wording “God raises the dead” is in the present tense, emphasizing that resurrection is not just something God did in the past but something He is capable of doing at any time. This reinforces the idea that Jesus’ resurrection is part of God’s ongoing plan.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Genesis 18:14 – “Is anything too hard for the Lord?” (A reminder that God can do the impossible.)
- Daniel 12:2 – A prophecy about the resurrection of the dead.
- John 11:25-26 – Jesus declares that He is the resurrection and the life.
- 1 Corinthians 15:14-17 – Paul explains that the resurrection is the foundation of Christian faith.
- Acts 23:6-8 – Paul previously used the resurrection belief of the Pharisees to defend himself.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse reminds us that our faith is based on a powerful, living God. If we believe in Him, we should not doubt His ability to do the miraculous. Resurrection is not just a theological concept—it is the heart of our hope.
It also challenges us to examine our own faith. Do we truly believe in God’s power, or do we limit Him in our thinking? When we pray, do we trust that God can answer in ways beyond what we can imagine?
Additionally, this verse encourages us to share our faith boldly. Paul was not afraid to ask tough questions. Likewise, we should be willing to challenge people to think about what they believe and why.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in His power over death. The resurrection is not just about proving His power—it is about giving life to those who trust in Him. Jesus’ resurrection was not just a miracle; it was an act of love that secured eternal life for all who believe (John 3:16).
This verse also shows God’s patience. Paul is asking this question because people are struggling to believe. Instead of condemning them, God gives them a chance to think, reflect, and come to faith.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus’ resurrection is the ultimate answer to Paul’s question. God has already proven His ability to raise the dead by raising Jesus (Romans 1:4). The resurrection is not a distant hope—it is a historical fact that changes everything.
Jesus also asked similar questions to challenge people’s faith (Luke 24:25-27). Paul is following His example by inviting people to reconsider their doubts and recognize the truth.
Finally, this verse connects to Jesus’ promise that all who believe in Him will be raised to eternal life (John 6:40). Just as Jesus rose, those who follow Him will share in His resurrection.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why do you think people struggle to believe in the resurrection?
- How does belief in resurrection shape the way we live our lives?
- Are there areas in your faith where you limit God’s power? How can you grow in trust?
- How can we use Paul’s approach to engage others in conversations about faith?
- What does the resurrection mean to you personally?
Paul’s question in Acts 26:8 challenges us to take God at His word. If we believe in an all-powerful God, then we must believe in His ability to raise the dead. And if Jesus is risen, then our hope in Him is secure.