Acts 3:26 – “When God raised up his servant, he sent him first to you to bless you by turning each of you from your wicked ways.”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

Peter concludes his sermon at the temple by explaining that Jesus was sent first to the Jewish people. God had raised up His servant, meaning that Jesus was both appointed and resurrected for this mission. The phrase “his servant” connects back to Isaiah’s prophecy of the Suffering Servant (Isaiah 53:11), showing that Jesus was the one chosen to bring salvation.

Peter also makes it clear that God’s purpose was to bless them, but this blessing came through turning them away from their sins. The greatest gift God gives is not just material prosperity or national freedom, but freedom from sin and a restored relationship with Him.

This verse shows both God’s mercy and the need for repentance. Jesus came first to the Jews, offering them salvation, but it required a personal response—they needed to turn away from their wicked ways and embrace Christ as the Messiah.

Historical Context

Peter was speaking to a Jewish audience in the temple, reminding them that they were the first recipients of the gospel. This was in line with God’s promise—salvation would come through Israel before being extended to the whole world.

Throughout history, God had sent prophets to Israel to call them back to Him. Now, He had sent His own Son to bring the ultimate blessing—salvation from sin. However, many had rejected Jesus, and Peter was urging them to see this as their second chance.

This also reflects Jesus’ own ministry, where He focused on the lost sheep of Israel before commanding His disciples to bring the gospel to the nations (Matthew 15:24, Acts 1:8).

Theological Implications

1. Jesus was sent first to Israel, but salvation is for all. God’s promise to Abraham included all nations (Genesis 12:3), but the Jewish people were given the first opportunity to respond.
2. God’s greatest blessing is salvation from sin. Many expected the Messiah to bring political freedom, but Jesus came to free people from the power of sin, which was a much greater problem.
3. Repentance is necessary for receiving God’s blessing. Peter says that Jesus came “to bless you by turning each of you from your wicked ways”—true blessing comes through repentance and transformation.
4. God is faithful to His promises. Despite Israel’s rejection of Jesus, God did not abandon them—He still sent the message of salvation to them first.

Literary Analysis

This verse follows a cause-and-effect structure:

• “When God raised up his servant” – This refers both to Jesus being chosen (His earthly mission) and His resurrection (His victory over sin and death).
• “He sent him first to you” – Shows that Israel had priority in hearing the gospel message.
• “To bless you” – Defines the purpose of Jesus’ coming—not to condemn, but to bring salvation and transformation.
• “By turning each of you from your wicked ways” – The true blessing is not just hearing the gospel, but responding to it with repentance.

Peter emphasizes that God’s blessing is not just a general promise—it is personal. Each individual must choose to turn from sin and follow Jesus.

Biblical Cross-References

• Isaiah 53:11 – “By his knowledge my righteous servant will justify many, and he will bear their iniquities.” Jesus is the Servant who brings righteousness.
• Matthew 10:5-6 – “Go rather to the lost sheep of Israel.” Jesus’ mission began with the Jews.
• Romans 1:16 – “First to the Jew, then to the Gentile.” Paul echoes Peter’s statement that Israel was given the first opportunity to receive salvation.
• Luke 24:47 – “Repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” Jesus confirmed that repentance was the key to receiving His blessing.
• Acts 13:46 – “We had to speak the word of God to you first. Since you reject it… we now turn to the Gentiles.” Paul later applies this principle in his missionary work.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

1. Jesus is God’s greatest blessing. Many people seek material blessings, but the greatest gift God offers is salvation and freedom from sin.
2. God’s mercy is patient. Even though many rejected Jesus, God continued offering salvation to Israel before turning to the Gentiles.
3. Repentance is not optional. The blessing of salvation includes turning away from sin. Being a Christian means a transformed life, not just believing with words.
4. We are called to share the message. If God was so patient with Israel, we should also be patient and persistent in sharing the gospel with others.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

1. God’s love reaches out first. He sent Jesus first to Israel, even though they rejected Him. In the same way, He reaches out to us with love, even when we don’t deserve it.
2. God’s love transforms. His blessing is not just about forgiving sin but helping us turn away from it so we can live in true freedom.
3. God’s love is faithful. Even though Israel turned away many times, God did not abandon them. He still offers grace and second chances.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

1. Jesus is the fulfillment of the covenant. He is the Servant whom God raised up to fulfill all the promises made to Israel.
2. Jesus brings true blessing. The greatest blessing is not wealth, health, or political freedom—but salvation through Christ.
3. Jesus calls people to repentance. He did not come just to inspire or teach—He came to turn people from sin and bring them into a right relationship with God.
4. Jesus’ mission started with Israel but extends to all. Peter reminds his audience that Jesus came first to them, but His message would soon spread to the entire world.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Do I see Jesus as my greatest blessing, or do I seek other things more than Him?
2. How does understanding that repentance is part of the blessing change my view of salvation?
3. In what ways do I need to turn away from “wicked ways” in my own life?
4. How can I share the message of Jesus with those who haven’t yet responded to Him?
5. How does this verse encourage me to trust God’s faithfulness in keeping His promises?