New Testament
Acts 1:2
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Until the day he was taken up, after he had given commandments through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen.
Compare translations
Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen:
What Acts 1:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights a significant moment in the life of Jesus and his relationship with his chosen followers, the apostles. It emphasizes that Jesus gave important instructions to them through the Holy Spirit before he ascended to heaven. This act of giving commandments shows his commitment to guiding them even after his departure. The apostles were specially selected, indicating their unique role in spreading his teachings. The mention of the Holy Spirit signifies the divine support and empowerment they would receive. This moment marks a transition, as Jesus prepares to leave but ensures his teachings and mission continue through his apostles. It reminds us that guidance and support can come from beyond our immediate presence, encouraging us to trust in the unseen help we receive in our own lives. The apostles were entrusted with a mission that would change the world, and this verse sets the stage for their journey ahead, filled with purpose and direction from Jesus himself.
How to apply Acts 1:2 to your life
Reflect on the guidance you receive in your life. Just as the apostles were given instructions, consider how you can seek and follow guidance in your own journey. Trust that support can come from unexpected places, empowering you to fulfill your purpose. Stay open to the influence of the Holy Spirit in your decisions and actions. Embrace your unique mission with confidence and clarity as you move forward in life.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Seen by Many (Acts 1:1–5)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Acts 1:2
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Acts 1:2
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Acts
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Acts 1:2 mean?
Acts 1:2 refers to the time after Jesus' resurrection when he provided instructions to his apostles through the Holy Spirit before his ascension to heaven. This verse highlights the importance of Jesus' teachings and the role of the apostles in continuing his mission.
What is the significance of the Holy Spirit in Acts 1:2?
The Holy Spirit in Acts 1:2 signifies the divine guidance and empowerment that Jesus provided to the apostles. It emphasizes that they would receive support from the Holy Spirit as they carried out their mission after Jesus' ascension.
Who are the apostles mentioned in Acts 1:2?
The apostles mentioned in Acts 1:2 are the twelve disciples chosen by Jesus to spread his teachings and establish the early Christian church. They were specially selected for their unique role in continuing Jesus' mission.
How does Acts 1:2 relate to the mission of the apostles?
Acts 1:2 sets the stage for the apostles' mission by highlighting the instructions given to them by Jesus through the Holy Spirit. This guidance was crucial for their role in spreading the message of Jesus after his ascension.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.