New Testament
Acts 13:37
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But the one whom God raised up did not see decay.
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But he, whom God raised again, saw no corruption.
What Acts 13:37 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights a significant truth about Jesus. After His death, God raised Him back to life, and unlike others who die, He did not experience decay. This means that His body remained perfect and whole, untouched by the natural process of decomposition. This resurrection is a powerful testament to His divine nature and the promise of eternal life. It assures us that death is not the end, and through Jesus, we can have hope beyond the grave. His victory over death signifies that He is alive and present in our lives today. This truth invites us to trust in Him, knowing that He has conquered the ultimate enemy. The resurrection is not just a historical event; it is a personal invitation to experience new life and transformation. It encourages us to live with purpose and hope, knowing that we are connected to a living Savior who cares for us deeply and offers us a future free from decay and despair. This promise of life is available to everyone who believes in Him.
How to apply Acts 13:37 to your life
Reflect on the significance of Jesus' resurrection in your life. Consider how this truth can transform your perspective on challenges and fears. Embrace the hope that comes from knowing you are connected to a living Savior who offers you new life and purpose every day. Let this assurance guide your actions and decisions as you navigate life’s journey. Trust in His promise of eternal life and live boldly in that truth.
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 13:37
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 13:37 mean by 'did not see decay'?
Acts 13:37 emphasizes that Jesus, after His resurrection, did not undergo physical decay like all humans do after death. This signifies His divine nature and the perfection of His resurrection body, highlighting that He conquered death completely. It reassures believers that through Jesus, they too can have hope for eternal life and will not face the same fate of decay.
How does Acts 13:37 relate to the resurrection of Jesus?
Acts 13:37 directly relates to the resurrection of Jesus by affirming that God raised Him from the dead, and unlike others, He did not experience decay. This verse serves as a powerful testament to the truth of the resurrection, reinforcing the belief that Jesus is alive and that His victory over death offers hope and assurance of eternal life to all who believe in Him.
What is the significance of Jesus not seeing corruption?
The significance of Jesus not seeing corruption lies in the affirmation of His divine nature and the promise of eternal life. It indicates that His resurrection was not just a return to life but a transformation into a glorified state, free from the effects of sin and death. This truth encourages believers to trust in Jesus for their own resurrection and eternal life, knowing that He has triumphed over death.
How can Acts 13:37 inspire hope in daily life?
Acts 13:37 can inspire hope in daily life by reminding believers that Jesus' resurrection assures them of victory over their own struggles and fears. Knowing that Jesus conquered death provides a foundation for facing life's challenges with confidence and purpose. It encourages individuals to live boldly, trusting in the promise of eternal life and the presence of a living Savior who cares for them.
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