New Testament
Acts 10:47
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this moment, Peter is addressing a significant question about baptism.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
"Can anyone withhold water for baptizing these people, who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?"
Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Peter is addressing a significant question about baptism. He sees that the people before him have received the Holy Spirit, just like the Jewish believers. This realization challenges the traditional boundaries of who can be baptized. Peter is essentially asking if anyone can deny these new believers the opportunity to be baptized in water. His question highlights the inclusivity of God's message. It emphasizes that the Holy Spirit is given freely to all, regardless of their background. Peter's statement is a powerful reminder that faith and acceptance are open to everyone. This moment marks a pivotal shift in the early church, showing that God's love transcends cultural and ethnic barriers. It encourages us to embrace diversity in our communities and recognize the work of the Spirit in unexpected places. Peter's inquiry invites us to reflect on our own openness to others in our faith journeys, reminding us that everyone deserves a chance to express their faith through baptism.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Acts 10:47 to your life
Consider how you can be more inclusive in your community. Reflect on your own beliefs and how they might affect your view of others. Embrace opportunities to welcome those who are different from you. Remember that everyone deserves a chance to express their faith and be part of the community. Celebrate diversity in your relationships and interactions with others, just as Peter did in this moment of revelation.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Acts 10:47 mean?
Acts 10:47 highlights Peter's realization that the Holy Spirit is given to all believers, regardless of their background. He questions whether anyone can deny baptism to those who have received the Spirit, emphasizing the inclusivity of God's message.
What is the significance of baptism in Acts 10:47?
In Acts 10:47, baptism represents an important step in publicly acknowledging faith in Jesus. Peter's question underscores that baptism should be available to everyone who believes, reflecting the early church's shift towards inclusivity.
What does Peter's question in Acts 10:47 reveal?
Peter's question in Acts 10:47 reveals his understanding that God's grace and the Holy Spirit are not limited to a specific group. It challenges traditional views and promotes the idea that all believers should have the opportunity to be baptized.
How does Acts 10:47 relate to inclusivity?
Acts 10:47 relates to inclusivity by showing that Peter recognized the Holy Spirit's work in people outside the Jewish community. His inquiry encourages acceptance and highlights that faith is open to everyone, regardless of their background.

The Book of Acts
Acts 1: The Ascension and the Choosing of Matthias
Jesus shows himself alive to the apostles after his suffering, speaking about the kingdom of God. He commands them not to leave Jerusalem but to wait for the promise of the Father, saying they will be baptized with the Holy Ghost soon. They ask if he will restore the kingdom to Israel, and he tells them it is not for them to know the times, but they will receive power when the Holy Ghost comes upon them and will be witnesses in Jerusalem, Judaea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. As they watch, he is taken up, and a cloud receives him out of their sight. Two men in white apparel tell them that this same Jesus will return in the same way they have seen him go.
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