New Testament
Acts 10:6
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"He is staying with Simon the tanner, whose house is by the sea. He will tell you what you must do."
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He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea side: he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do.
What Acts 10:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we learn about a man named Simon, who is a tanner, meaning he works with animal hides. His house is located by the sea, which suggests a lively and bustling environment. The focus here is on another man who is being directed to Simon's home. This man is told that Simon will provide important guidance on what he needs to do next. The mention of Simon's profession is significant, as tanners were often considered unclean by the standards of the time, yet God is using this setting to convey a message. This shows that divine guidance can come from unexpected places and people. It emphasizes the idea that everyone has a role in God's plan, regardless of their background or occupation. The passage invites us to be open to receiving wisdom from those we might overlook. It reminds us that important life directions can come from surprising sources, encouraging us to seek out guidance in our own lives, no matter where it may come from or who it may involve. This is a powerful reminder of inclusivity and divine purpose.
How to apply Acts 10:6 to your life
Consider who in your life might offer you guidance that you haven't recognized. Be open to advice from unexpected sources, as wisdom can come from anyone. Reflect on how you can be a source of support for others, regardless of their background or profession. Embrace the diversity of experiences around you and learn from them. Seek out opportunities to connect with those who are different from you, as they may have valuable insights.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
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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.
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Keep studying Acts 10:6
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 10:6 mean?
Acts 10:6 refers to a man named Simon, a tanner, who lives by the sea. The verse indicates that another man is to seek Simon for important guidance, highlighting that divine direction can come from unexpected sources.
What is the significance of Simon being a tanner in Acts 10:6?
Simon being a tanner is significant because tanners were often viewed as unclean in biblical times. This detail emphasizes that God can use anyone, regardless of their background or profession, to convey important messages.
How does Acts 10:6 relate to seeking guidance?
Acts 10:6 encourages individuals to be open to receiving guidance from unexpected sources. It suggests that important advice can come from those we might overlook, reminding us to seek wisdom in diverse places.
What themes are present in Acts 10:6?
The themes present in Acts 10:6 include guidance, the importance of unexpected sources, inclusivity, and the idea of divine purpose. These themes encourage openness to wisdom from all walks of life.
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