New Testament
Acts 13:17
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The God of this people Israel chose our ancestors and exalted the people during their stay as foreigners in the land of Egypt, and with an outstretched arm he brought them out of it.
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The God of this people of Israel chose our fathers, and exalted the people when they dwelt as strangers in the land of Egypt, and with an high arm brought he them out of it.
What Acts 13:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we see how God chose the people of Israel and their ancestors, highlighting His special relationship with them. While they were living in Egypt, a foreign land, God elevated them, showing His favor and care. He didn’t abandon them in their struggles; instead, He actively worked to bring them out of oppression. With great power, symbolized by His outstretched arm, He led them to freedom. This act of deliverance is a testament to God’s commitment to His people, demonstrating that He is always present, even in difficult times. The story serves as a reminder that God sees our struggles and is capable of bringing us out of our own challenges. It encourages us to trust in His strength and guidance, knowing that He has a plan for our lives, just as He did for Israel. This passage invites us to reflect on our own journeys and recognize the moments when we have felt God’s hand leading us to freedom and hope, even when we felt lost or trapped in our circumstances.
How to apply Acts 13:17 to your life
When facing challenges, remember that you are not alone. Just as God delivered the Israelites, He can help you through your struggles. Trust in His strength and guidance, and look for ways He might be leading you to freedom and hope in your life. Keep faith alive, knowing that God cares for you personally and intimately. Embrace the journey ahead with confidence and courage!
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
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Illustrated scene from Paul's story: A Light for the Gentiles (Acts 13:13–52)
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Paul
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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Keep studying Acts 13:17
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 13:17 mean?
Acts 13:17 highlights God's choice of Israel and His active role in their deliverance from Egypt. It emphasizes His special relationship with the people and His commitment to help them during their struggles.
What is the significance of God's 'outstretched arm' in Acts 13:17?
The 'outstretched arm' in Acts 13:17 symbolizes God's great power and willingness to rescue His people. It represents His intervention and ability to bring them out of oppression and into freedom.
How does Acts 13:17 relate to personal struggles?
Acts 13:17 encourages individuals to trust in God's strength during their own challenges. Just as God delivered the Israelites, He is capable of guiding and helping us through our struggles.
What themes are present in Acts 13:17?
Key themes in Acts 13:17 include God's choice of Israel, deliverance from oppression, His power, faithfulness, and the hope He provides to His people.
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