Charles Ellicott Commentary Acts 13:34

"And as concerning that he raised him up from the dead, now no more to return to corruption, he hath spoken on this wise, I will give you the holy and sure [blessings] of David." — Acts 13:34 (ASV)

Now no more to return to corruption.—We note from the turn of the phrase that St. Paul already has the words of Psalms 16:10 in his mind, though he has not yet referred to it.

I will give you the sure mercies of David.—The words do not seem in themselves to have the nature of a Messianic prediction. To those, however, whose minds were full to overflowing with the writings of the prophets they would be pregnant with meaning. What were the sure mercies of David (Isaiah 55:3) but the everlasting covenant of mercy which was to find its fulfilment in One who should be a leader and commander to the people?

We may well believe that the few words quoted recalled to St. Paul and to his hearers the whole of that wonderful chapter which opens with Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters. The Greek word for “mercies” is the same adjective as that translated “holy” in the next verse, “holiness” being identified with “mercy,” and so forms a connecting link with the prophecy cited in the next verse.