Though not the first speech in Acts (cf. 1:16–22), this is the first to proclaim the Christ event, that is, it is the first instance of the kerygma. It touches on the ministry and death of Jesus, but its chief concern is to show that Jesus is the Messiah, and to this end it lays greatest emphasis on his resurrection and ascension.

As we shall see, this speech sets the pattern for much of the other preaching in Acts. From a survey of all the instances of kerygma in Acts, C. H. Dodd has identified six basic elements: the age of fulfillment has dawned; the fulfillment is in the person and work of Jesus, especially his death and resurrection, the latter demonstrating him to be the Christ; Christ has been exalted; the Holy Spirit in the church is the sign of Christ’s present power; Christ will…