John Calvin Commentary Acts 24:15

John Calvin Commentary

Acts 24:15

1509–1564
Protestant
John Calvin
John Calvin

John Calvin Commentary

Acts 24:15

1509–1564
Protestant
SCRIPTURE

"having hope toward God, which these also themselves look for, that there shall be a resurrection both of the just and unjust." — Acts 24:15 (ASV)

Hoping in God. We must note the course of his speech. For after he has professed that he believes the Scripture, he now adds the hope of the resurrection to come, so that it may appear that it does not come from the understanding of the flesh, or from the decrees of men, but is conceived from the word of God.

Thus, the reverence of the Scripture goes before, so that it may hold us firmly, and it is the beginning of faith. After that, the knowledge of those things which God has revealed there follows, being coupled and linked with sure hope.

And while he makes them his companions, this is referred to the more sound-minded group. Though it is not to be doubted that he seeks, by this means and strategy, to bring them out of their lurking places into the clear light, and that before Felix, as it will again appear from the conclusion of the defense.

But in this passage, the general resurrection is defended (or asserted) against certain deranged individuals, who restrict it only to the members of Christ. And as Paul says here that all men shall rise again, so by the plain voice of Christ all are summoned: some unto judgment, some unto life (John 5:29).