New Testament
Acts 19:6
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When Paul laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied.
Compare translations
And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.
What Acts 19:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Paul, a key figure in spreading the message of Jesus, laid his hands on a group of believers. This act was significant because it symbolized the transfer of spiritual power. As he did this, the Holy Spirit, a divine presence, came upon them. This experience was transformative; they began to speak in different languages and share messages inspired by God. Speaking in tongues and prophesying were signs of the Holy Spirit's work in their lives. These gifts were not just for show; they empowered the believers to communicate their faith boldly. This event highlights the importance of community and the active role of the Holy Spirit in guiding and equipping individuals for their spiritual journeys. It reminds us that we are not alone in our faith; we have divine support and encouragement. The experience of these early believers serves as a powerful reminder of the potential within each of us when we open ourselves to spiritual influence and guidance, leading to a deeper connection with God and each other.
How to apply Acts 19:6 to your life
Consider how you can invite the Holy Spirit into your life. Reflect on your own spiritual gifts and how you can use them to support others. Engage with your community, sharing your experiences and encouraging one another in faith. Remember, you are part of something greater than yourself, empowered to make a difference. Embrace this journey together with others who share your beliefs and values.
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 Holy Spirit Comes at Ephesus (Acts 19:1–7)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Paul
Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. 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.
Jerusalem
David's capital, the city of the temple, and the place where Jesus died and rose again.
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 19:6
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 19:6
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 19:6 mean?
Acts 19:6 describes an event where Paul lays his hands on a group of believers, resulting in them receiving the Holy Spirit. This act signifies the empowerment of these individuals to speak in tongues and prophesy, demonstrating the transformative influence of the Holy Spirit in their lives.
What is the significance of speaking in tongues in Acts 19:6?
In Acts 19:6, speaking in tongues represents a spiritual gift that allows believers to communicate in different languages as a sign of the Holy Spirit's presence. It serves as a powerful indication of their new spiritual empowerment and connection to God.
How does Acts 19:6 relate to community and faith?
Acts 19:6 emphasizes the importance of community in faith as believers receive the Holy Spirit together. Their shared experience of speaking in tongues and prophesying strengthens their bond and encourages them to support one another in their spiritual journeys.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.