New Testament

Acts 13:46

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this moment, Paul and Barnabas are speaking with courage and clarity.

Author
Luke the physician
Written
Around AD 62
Genre
Historical narrative
Original Audience
Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
CBTClear Bible Translation

Then Paul and Barnabas spoke out boldly: "It was necessary that the word of God be spoken to you first. But since you reject it and judge yourselves unworthy of eternal life, we are now turning to the Gentiles.

KJVKing James Version

Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this moment, Paul and Barnabas are speaking with courage and clarity. They emphasize that sharing God's message was essential for the people they were addressing. However, the response they received was one of rejection. By turning away from the message, these individuals were essentially deciding they did not want the gift of eternal life. Paul and Barnabas then made a pivotal choice to reach out to the Gentiles instead. This shift highlights the importance of being open to new opportunities and audiences. It also serves as a reminder that everyone has the choice to accept or reject what is offered to them. The boldness of Paul and Barnabas encourages us to stand firm in our beliefs, even when faced with opposition. Their actions demonstrate that the message of hope and life is for everyone, regardless of background or belief. This moment marks a significant turning point in their mission, showcasing the expansive nature of God's love and the importance of sharing it widely.

How to apply Acts 13:46 to your life

Consider how you respond to new ideas or messages in your life. Are you open to exploring different perspectives? Like Paul and Barnabas, be courageous in sharing your beliefs, but also be willing to adapt when faced with resistance. Everyone deserves a chance to hear the message of hope and love, regardless of their background or beliefs. Embrace inclusivity in your interactions with others.

Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Acts 13:46 mean?

Acts 13:46 highlights Paul and Barnabas's decision to share God's message with the Gentiles after facing rejection from their own people. They emphasize that it was necessary to speak to the Jews first, but their refusal to accept the message led to a shift in focus to include all people.

What does 'judge yourselves unworthy of eternal life' mean in Acts 13:46?

The phrase 'judge yourselves unworthy of eternal life' indicates that by rejecting the message of salvation, the individuals were making a choice that excluded them from the gift of eternal life. It reflects the serious consequences of rejecting God's offer.

How does Acts 13:46 encourage boldness in sharing beliefs?

Acts 13:46 shows Paul and Barnabas speaking boldly despite opposition, encouraging others to stand firm in their beliefs. Their example serves as a reminder that sharing one's faith courageously is important, even when faced with rejection.

What themes are present in Acts 13:46?

Key themes in Acts 13:46 include boldness in proclaiming the message, the rejection of that message, the concept of eternal life, the opportunity to reach new audiences, and the importance of inclusivity in sharing faith.

The Book of Acts
Book Summary

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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