New Testament
Acts 13:39
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Through him, everyone who believes is justified from everything that you could not be justified from through the law of Moses.
Compare translations
And by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses.
What Acts 13:39 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights a powerful truth: through faith in Jesus, anyone can be made right with God. The law of Moses had many rules, but it couldn't truly free people from guilt or sin. Believing in Jesus offers a fresh start, a clean slate. It’s not about following rules perfectly; it’s about trusting in Him. This means that no matter your past, you can find forgiveness and acceptance. Everyone is invited to experience this justification, which is a legal term meaning to be declared innocent. It’s a gift that changes lives, offering hope and a new beginning. This message is for everyone, regardless of their background or mistakes. Embracing this truth can transform your relationship with God and others, leading to a life filled with purpose and peace. Remember, it’s not about what you do, but about who you believe in that matters most in your journey of faith. This is the essence of grace and the heart of the Gospel, making it personal and unforgettable for each believer.
How to apply Acts 13:39 to your life
Reflect on your own life and consider areas where you feel burdened by guilt. Remember that through faith in Jesus, you can find freedom and forgiveness. Embrace this gift and share it with others who may need hope and a fresh start. Let this truth guide your daily choices and interactions with others. Trust in His grace to transform your life and relationships for the better.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Paul's story: A Light for the Gentiles (Acts 13:13–52)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
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.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Acts 13:39
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Acts 13:39
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 13:39 mean?
Acts 13:39 means that through faith in Jesus, anyone can be declared innocent and justified before God. The verse emphasizes that the law of Moses could not provide true freedom from guilt, but belief in Jesus offers forgiveness and a new beginning.
What is the meaning of justification in Acts 13:39?
Justification in Acts 13:39 refers to being declared righteous or innocent by God. It highlights that this status comes through faith in Jesus, rather than through following the rules of the law of Moses.
How does Acts 13:39 relate to forgiveness?
Acts 13:39 relates to forgiveness by stating that through belief in Jesus, individuals can be freed from the guilt of their sins. It emphasizes that true forgiveness is available to everyone who trusts in Him.
What does Acts 13:39 say about faith?
Acts 13:39 highlights that faith in Jesus is essential for justification. It shows that believing in Him is what allows people to be made right with God, rather than relying on their own efforts to follow the law.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.