New Testament
Acts 2:24
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because death could not hold him.
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Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it.
What Acts 2:24 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights a powerful moment in history when God brought Jesus back to life after his death. It emphasizes that Jesus was not just a victim of death; instead, God intervened to rescue him from its pain. The phrase 'freeing him from the agony of death' suggests that death had no power over him. This act of resurrection is a declaration that death is not the end. It shows that God has authority over life and death, and through Jesus, we can also experience this victory. The resurrection is a promise of hope for everyone who believes, assuring us that we too can overcome our struggles and fears. It invites us to trust in God's power to transform our lives, even in the darkest moments. This moment is not just a historical event; it is a personal invitation to experience freedom and new life through faith in Jesus. It reminds us that we are never truly alone, as God is always ready to lift us from our despair and give us hope for the future.
How to apply Acts 2:24 to your life
Reflect on the areas in your life where you feel trapped or defeated. Remember that just as God raised Jesus, He can bring new life to your struggles. Trust in His power to transform your situation and give you hope for the future. Embrace this promise of freedom and renewal in your daily life.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
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Illustrated scene from Peter's story: Peter Preaches at Pentecost (Acts 2:14–41)
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Peter
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.
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David's capital, the city of the temple, and the place where Jesus died and rose again.
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Keep studying Acts 2:24
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 2:24 mean?
Acts 2:24 means that God raised Jesus from the dead, showing that death could not keep him. This verse emphasizes God's power over death and the significance of Jesus' resurrection as a victory over mortality.
What is the significance of 'freed from the agony of death' in Acts 2:24?
The phrase 'freed from the agony of death' signifies that Jesus was liberated from the pain and hold of death. It highlights the belief that death does not have the final say, and through Jesus, believers can also find freedom from their struggles.
How does Acts 2:24 relate to hope?
Acts 2:24 relates to hope by demonstrating that Jesus' resurrection assures believers that they too can overcome death and despair. It encourages trust in God's power to bring new life and transformation.
What does 'not possible that he should be holden of it' mean in Acts 2:24?
The phrase 'not possible that he should be holden of it' means that death could not retain Jesus. It underscores the belief that Jesus' divine nature and mission made it impossible for death to keep him.
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