New Testament
Acts 17:31
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
because he has set a day on which he will judge the world in righteousness through a man whom he has appointed. He has given proof of this to everyone by raising him from the dead.'
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Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.
What Acts 17:31 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse tells us that there is a specific day set by God when He will judge everyone fairly and justly. The judge is a man appointed by God, who has proven his authority by coming back to life after death. This resurrection serves as undeniable evidence of his power and the truth of his message. It emphasizes that everyone will be held accountable for their actions, and this judgment will be based on righteousness. The idea of judgment can be daunting, but it also brings hope, as it assures us that wrongs will be righted. The resurrection of this man is a pivotal moment, showing that death is not the end and that there is a greater purpose to life. This message invites us to reflect on our lives and consider how we live in light of this coming judgment. It encourages us to seek a relationship with the one who has been raised from the dead, as he offers guidance and hope for our lives today and beyond. Understanding this can transform how we view our choices and our future.
How to apply Acts 17:31 to your life
Consider how your actions align with the values of fairness and righteousness. Reflect on the significance of the resurrection in your life. This can inspire you to live with purpose and integrity, knowing that your choices matter in the grand scheme of things. Embrace the hope that comes from this promise of justice and life beyond death.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
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Illustrated scene from Paul's story: To an Unknown God (Acts 17:16–34)
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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.
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The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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Keep studying Acts 17:31
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 17:31 mean?
Acts 17:31 means that God has designated a specific day to judge the world fairly through a man He has chosen. This judgment will be based on righteousness, and the resurrection of this man serves as proof of his authority.
What is the significance of the resurrection in Acts 17:31?
The resurrection in Acts 17:31 is significant because it confirms the authority of the appointed judge and serves as assurance to everyone that there is life beyond death. It highlights the power of God and the truth of the message being delivered.
How does Acts 17:31 relate to accountability?
Acts 17:31 relates to accountability by stating that everyone will be judged based on their actions on a specific day set by God. It underscores the importance of living righteously, knowing that we will all face this judgment.
What themes are present in Acts 17:31?
The themes present in Acts 17:31 include judgment, righteousness, resurrection, accountability, and hope. These themes encourage reflection on our lives and the assurance of justice and purpose beyond death.
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