Acts 1:6

They therefore (oi men oun). Demonstrative use of oi with men oun without any corresponding de just as in Luke 1:1 men occurs alone. The combination men oun is common in Acts (27 times). Cf. Luke 3:18 . The oun is resumptive and refers to the introductory verses ( Acts 1:1-5 ), which served to connect the Acts with the preceding Gospel. The narrative now begins. Asked (hrwtwn). Imperfect active, repeatedly asked before Jesus answered. Lord (kurie). Here not in the sense of "sir" ( Matthew 21:30 ), but to Jesus as Lord and Master as often in Acts ( Acts 19:5 Acts 19:10 , etc.) and in prayer to Jesus ( Acts 7:59 ). Dost thou restore (ei apokaqistanei). The use of ei in an indirect question is common. We have already seen its use in direct questions ( Matthew 12:10 ; Luke 13:23 which see for discussion), possibly in imitation of the Hebrew (frequent in the LXX) or as a partial condition without conclusion. See also Acts 7:1 ; Acts 19:2 ; Acts 21:37 ; Acts 22:25 . The form of the verb apokaqistanw is late (also apokaqistaw) omega form for the old and common apokaqisthmi, double compound, to restore to its former state. As a matter of fact the Messianic kingdom for which they are asking is a political kingdom that would throw off the hated Roman yoke. It is a futuristic present and they are uneasy that Jesus may yet fail to fulfil their hopes. Surely here is proof that the eleven apostles needed the promise of the Father before they began to spread the message of the Risen Christ. They still yearn for a political kingdom for Israel even after faith and hope have come back. They need the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit ( John 14:1-16:33 ) and the power of the Holy Spirit ( Acts 1:4 ).