Acts 17:31
Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.
Acts 17:31 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse emphasizes the certainty of a future judgment day, which has been appointed by God. The judgment will be executed with perfect righteousness by Jesus Christ, whom God has chosen for this role. The resurrection of Jesus serves as a powerful assurance to all people that this judgment will indeed take place. The act of raising Jesus from the dead validates his position as the ultimate judge and gives credibility to the promise of future judgment. This verse highlights the importance of living in accordance with God's righteousness, as every individual will stand before Jesus on the appointed day to give an account of their actions. Therefore, believers are encouraged to live faithfully and obediently to God in preparation for this inevitable judgment. The resurrection of Jesus from the dead stands as a guarantee of this future event, underscoring the significance of living a life pleasing to God.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse focuses on the concept of judgment and righteousness. The appointed day mentioned refers to the eventual return of Christ, where He will judge the world in righteousness. This judgment will be carried out by the man ordained by God, who is Jesus Christ. The assurance given to all men is that Jesus has been raised from the dead, signifying His victory over sin and death. This event serves as a guarantee of the future judgment to come, highlighting the importance of living a righteous life in accordance with God's will. Through this verse, believers are reminded of the ultimate accountability they have before God and the need to strive for righteousness in anticipation of the final judgment.
Acts 17:31 in other translations
American Standard Version
inasmuch as he hath appointed a day in which he will judge the world in righteousness by the man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.
World English Bible
because he has appointed a day in which he will judge the world in righteousness by the man whom he has ordained; of which he has given assurance to all men, in that he has raised him from the dead.”
Douay-Rheims
Because he hath appointed a day wherein he will judge the world in equity, by the man whom he hath appointed: giving faith to all, by raising him up from the dead.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Because hee hath appoynted a day in the which he wil iudge the world in righteousnes, by that man whome hee hath appoynted, whereof he hath giuen an assurance to all men, in that hee hath raised him from the dead.