Acts 2:22

Men of Israel. Literally, “men, Israelites.” The term “Israel” implies the covenant relationship (see on Gen. 32:28).

Hear these words. An arresting phrase, marking a division in Peter’s argument. Peter has given the prophetic background, and now launches into his main theme, the divinity of Jesus.

Jesus of Nazareth. The first part of the title affixed to the cross (cf. John 19:19).

Seven weeks later the name is used to introduce Him whom Peter demonstrates to be “both Lord and Christ” (Acts 2:36). The use of the name could hardly have been casual.

A man. Peter begins his argument with the human Jesus, the Man who had lived and moved among them, openly and publicly, and proved by His life and works to be all that Peter is now going to claim for Him.

Approved of God. That is, acknowledged by God.

Among you. Rather, “unto you.”

Miracles and wonders and signs. For “miracles” read, literally, “powers,” or “mighty works.” “Wonders” and “signs” may hark back to Joel’s words quoted in v. 19. The three words are synonyms, expressing different aspects of the same fact rather than a meticulous classification of Christ’s deeds.

God did. Peter postulates God’s authority and approval for Jesus’ miracles.

Ye yourselves. The audience could hardly quarrel with Peter’s statements, for they knew them to be true, based on deeds done in their midst.