New Testament
Acts 16:13
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
On the Sabbath, we went outside the city to a riverside, where prayer was customarily made. We sat down and spoke with the women who had gathered there.
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And on the sabbath we went out of the city by a river side, where prayer was wont to be made; and we sat down, and spake unto the women which resorted thither.
What Acts 16:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
On the Sabbath, a day traditionally set aside for rest and worship, a group of people ventured outside the city. They found a peaceful spot by the river, a place where prayer was often held. This gathering was primarily made up of women who were seeking spiritual connection and community. The men in the group took the opportunity to sit down and engage in conversation with these women. They shared thoughts and insights, creating a space for dialogue and understanding. This moment highlights the importance of community and the role of women in spiritual gatherings. It shows that faith can flourish in informal settings, away from traditional places of worship. The riverside became a sanctuary for those seeking connection with God and each other, emphasizing that spirituality can be found in everyday life. This scene invites us to consider where we find our own moments of connection and reflection, encouraging us to seek out spaces that nurture our spiritual growth and relationships.
How to apply Acts 16:13 to your life
Consider where you can find or create spaces for meaningful conversations about faith. Look for opportunities to connect with others in informal settings, like parks or coffee shops. Engage with those around you, sharing thoughts and experiences that can deepen your understanding and relationships. Every moment can be a chance for spiritual growth and connection with others who seek the same. Embrace these opportunities to foster community.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
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Illustrated scene from Paul's story: Lydia Believes (Acts 16:11–15)
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying Acts 16:13
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 16:13 mean?
Acts 16:13 describes a group of people who went outside the city on the Sabbath to a riverside where prayer was commonly held. They engaged in conversation with women who gathered there, highlighting the importance of community and informal worship.
What is the significance of the riverside in Acts 16:13?
The riverside in Acts 16:13 serves as a peaceful gathering place for prayer and spiritual connection. It emphasizes that worship and community can occur outside traditional settings, allowing for meaningful dialogue and relationships.
Who were the women mentioned in Acts 16:13?
The women mentioned in Acts 16:13 were likely seeking spiritual connection and community, gathering by the riverside for prayer. Their presence highlights the role of women in early Christian gatherings.
What does the term 'Sabbath' refer to in Acts 16:13?
In Acts 16:13, the 'Sabbath' refers to a day of rest and worship traditionally observed by Jews. It is a time set aside for spiritual reflection and community gatherings.
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