Acts 5:31

Exalted. Gr. hupsod, a word used in John 3:14; 12:32 in the sense of “lifted up,” and in Phil 2:9 and the LXX of Isa. 52:13, with the meaning “exalted.” Peter has referred to these two definitions (cf. Acts 2:33), and now he proceeds to deal with the second.

With his right hand. Or, “at his right hand” (see on ch. 2:33). The right hand is a common Biblical figure for authority and might (cf. Ex. 15:6).

Prince. See on ch. 3:15. The title of sovereignty is closely united with the title that pledges salvation. Christ desires to rule over men that He might be their Saviour. We cannot have Him as our Saviour unless He rules over us, and if He governs our lives He will save us. His two offices are inseparable.

Saviour. For the meaning of this title see on Matt. 1:21.

To give repentance. Note the basic unity of the teaching of the apostles with that of John the Baptist and of Jesus (see on Matt. 3:2; 4:17). The record of apostolic teaching presents a more complete revelation of the way in which forgiveness had been provided — through the vicarious death of the Saviour.

Forgiveness of sins. Rather, “the taking away of sins” (see on ch. 2:38). Repentance is a necessary prelude to forgiveness. Forgiveness is a joint gift from the Father and the Son (see on Mark 2:7-11). A righteous and just God cannot accept a sinner into His presence except as the sinner by faith knows Jesus Christ as the sin bearer (1 Peter 2:24) and accepts Him as his personal Saviour (Rom. 3:23-26). Through His work as sin bearer the sins of the repentant one are remitted, or taken away (see on John 1:29), and he stands justified in His sight.