36 “For David, after he had served the purpose of God in his own generation, fell asleep and was laid with his fathers and saw corruption, 37 but he whom God raised up did not see corruption. 38 Let it be known to you therefore, brothers, that through this man forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you, 39 and by him everyone who believes is freed from everything from which you could not be freed by the Law of Moses.” (Acts 13:36–39)
The Apostle Paul continued his sermon at the synagogue in Pisidia Antioch concerning the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Paul labored in his message to emphasize the lack of deterioration Jesus’ physical body encountered following His death and prior to His resurrection. This was unique for Jesus.
Paul went on to explain that even King David, having served the LORD, and being a man after God’s own heart, died, and was buried like his ancestors, resulting in his body decomposing. However, this did not occur with Jesus. His body did not experience decay.
Consequently, it is only through Jesus Christ that God can forgive sinners of their sins. It is by Christ and Christ alone that God sets the believing sinner free from the guilt, debt, enmity and enslavement to sin. This is a freedom the Law of Moses was incapable of accomplishing.
This is a truth Paul wanted his audience to understand and not miss its significance. It is the truth of the Gospel. Is the answer to the question, “how can I be forgiven?” Or, “what do I do with my guilt and shame?”
Dr. Simon Kistemaker explains that, “All human beings are guilty of violating the commands of the Holy God. In fact, all human beings know this about themselves, but suppress the truth in unrighteousness (Romans 1:18). Those who accept the truth are those who wonder how their guilt can be removed. Paul’s answer is through this man. Christ can take away sin and guilt.”
It is only by grace alone, through faith alone in the person and work of Jesus Christ alone that the sinner can be justified and declared righteous. This justification forever removes the sinner’s guilt, debt, enmity before God, and enslavement to sin. Hallelujah!
Soli deo Gloria!
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