New Testament
Acts 13:8
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But Elymas the sorcerer (for that is what his name means when translated) opposed them, trying to turn the proconsul away from the faith.
Compare translations
But Elymas the sorcerer (for so is his name by interpretation) withstood them, seeking to turn away the deputy from the faith.
What Acts 13:8 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we see Elymas, a sorcerer, actively opposing the message being shared by Paul and Barnabas. His name means 'sorcerer,' which highlights his role in trying to mislead others. Elymas was not just a bystander; he was determined to turn the proconsul, a high-ranking official, away from the faith being presented. This shows how some people will resist the truth, especially when it threatens their influence or power. Elymas represents those who use deception to maintain control over others. His actions remind us that there are forces that will challenge our beliefs and attempts to share them. However, the commitment of Paul and Barnabas to their mission illustrates the importance of perseverance in the face of opposition. They remained focused on their purpose, demonstrating that faith can withstand challenges. This story encourages us to stand firm in our beliefs, even when faced with resistance from others who may not understand or accept our faith journey.
How to apply Acts 13:8 to your life
When you encounter opposition in sharing your beliefs, remember the example of Paul and Barnabas. Stay committed to your message and don’t be discouraged by those who resist. Your faith can inspire others, even in challenging situations. Keep pushing forward with love and truth, regardless of the obstacles you face. Trust that your efforts can make a difference in someone’s life, just as they did for the proconsul in this story.
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: The Sorcerer on Cyprus (Acts 13:4–12)
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 13:8
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 13:8
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 13:8 mean?
Acts 13:8 describes Elymas the sorcerer opposing Paul and Barnabas as they share their message with the proconsul. His actions illustrate how some individuals resist the truth, especially when it threatens their influence.
Who is Elymas in Acts 13:8?
Elymas is identified as a sorcerer in Acts 13:8, and his name means 'sorcerer' in translation. He actively tries to turn the proconsul away from the faith being preached by Paul and Barnabas.
What can we learn from Acts 13:8 about sharing faith?
Acts 13:8 teaches that sharing faith can lead to opposition, but it encourages perseverance. Paul and Barnabas remained committed to their mission despite Elymas's attempts to mislead.
What themes are present in Acts 13:8?
Key themes in Acts 13:8 include opposition to faith, the use of deception, the importance of perseverance, and the struggle for truth in the face of challenges.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.