New Testament
Acts 16:31
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, the response to a desperate question about salvation is clear and powerful.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
They answered, "Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved — you and your household."
And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.
Plain Meaning
Paul and Silas answer the jailer's question — 'What must I do to be saved?' — with a direct command: put your trust in the Lord Jesus Christ. The promise that follows is that he will be saved. 'Believe on' in this context means more than mental agreement; it means personally trusting in Jesus. The phrase 'and thy house' extends the same promise to his household — if they also believe, they too will be saved.
Read It in Context
The jailer had just witnessed an earthquake that opened every cell and freed every prisoner. Expecting the prisoners to have escaped, he was about to kill himself. Paul stopped him. Shaken, the jailer fell before Paul and Silas and asked what he must do to be saved. Verse 31 is their answer.
The full Clear view adds what to notice, common misreadings, and the passage that best explains this one — for Acts 16:31 and any verse in the Bible.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, the response to a desperate question about salvation is clear and powerful. The message is simple: to believe in Jesus Christ is the key to being saved. This belief is not just for the individual but extends to their entire household. It emphasizes the importance of faith in Jesus as the foundation for salvation. When you trust in Him, you open the door to a new life filled with hope and purpose. This promise of salvation is inclusive, suggesting that faith can impact those around you. It invites everyone to consider the transformative power of believing in Jesus, not just for themselves but for their loved ones as well. This verse encourages us to share our faith, knowing it can lead to a ripple effect of salvation within families and communities. It’s a reminder that faith is a journey that can start with one person and touch many lives, creating a legacy of belief and hope for generations to come. Embrace this promise and share it with those you care about.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Acts 16:31 to your life
Consider how your faith can influence those around you. Share your belief in Jesus with your family and friends. Encourage them to explore their own faith journey. Remember, your belief can create a positive impact on your loved ones' lives. Be a source of hope and inspiration for others as you live out your faith daily.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary · Acts 16:31 Meaning
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Acts 16:31 mean?
Acts 16:31 emphasizes the importance of believing in Jesus Christ for salvation. It states that faith in Him not only leads to personal salvation but can also extend to one's entire household.
What is the meaning of 'Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ' in Acts 16:31?
The phrase 'Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ' means to have faith and trust in Jesus as the Savior. This belief is foundational for receiving salvation and is a call to acknowledge His authority and role in one's life.
How does Acts 16:31 relate to family salvation?
Acts 16:31 suggests that faith in Jesus can have a ripple effect, impacting not only the believer but also their household. It encourages believers to share their faith, as it can lead to the salvation of family members.
What can I learn from Acts 16:31?
From Acts 16:31, you can learn the significance of faith in Jesus for salvation and the potential influence your belief can have on your loved ones. It encourages sharing your faith to inspire others.
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