New Testament
Acts 13:22
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, we see a significant shift in leadership.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
After removing him, God raised up David to be their king. He testified about him, saying, 'I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after my own heart, who will carry out all my will.'
And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we see a significant shift in leadership. God decided to remove the previous king and chose David, the son of Jesse, to lead His people. This choice was not random; God recognized something special in David. He described David as a man after His own heart, indicating a deep connection and alignment with God's desires. David was not perfect, but his heart was devoted to fulfilling God's will. This highlights the importance of inner character over outward appearances. God values those who seek to understand and carry out His plans. David's story reminds us that true leadership comes from a place of genuine faith and commitment. It encourages us to reflect on our own hearts and motivations, asking ourselves if we are pursuing what truly matters to God. David's legacy is one of passion and purpose, showing that anyone can be chosen for greatness if they align their heart with God's intentions. His life serves as an inspiration for us to strive for a similar relationship with the divine.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Acts 13:22 to your life
Consider what it means to have a heart aligned with God's will. Reflect on your own motivations and desires. Are you pursuing what truly matters? Strive to cultivate a heart that seeks to understand and fulfill God's plans in your life. This can lead to a more meaningful existence and impact on others' lives. Embrace the journey of faithfulness and purpose in your daily actions and decisions.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Acts 13:22 mean?
Acts 13:22 describes how God chose David as king after removing the previous leader. It emphasizes that God saw something special in David, calling him a man after His own heart, which indicates a deep connection and commitment to fulfilling God's will.
How does Acts 13:22 relate to the theme of leadership?
Acts 13:22 illustrates that true leadership is chosen by God and is based on the character and heart of the individual. It suggests that effective leaders are those who are devoted to understanding and executing God's will.
What can we learn from David's example in Acts 13:22?
From David's example in Acts 13:22, we learn the importance of having a heart that seeks to align with God's desires. His story encourages us to reflect on our motivations and strive for a genuine relationship with God in our own lives.

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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