New Testament
Acts 2:38
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Peter answered, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit."
Compare translations
Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
What Acts 2:38 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Peter speaks directly to the crowd, urging them to change their hearts and minds, which is what repentance means. He emphasizes the importance of being baptized, a public declaration of faith in Jesus Christ. This act symbolizes the washing away of sins, offering a fresh start. Peter assures everyone that by doing this, they will receive the Holy Spirit, a powerful gift that brings guidance and strength. This message is not just for a select few; it’s for everyone, inviting all to take part in this transformative experience. The call to action is clear: acknowledge your wrongs, embrace a new path, and accept the divine help that comes from the Holy Spirit. This passage highlights the importance of personal commitment and the promise of spiritual empowerment that follows. It’s an invitation to a new life filled with purpose and connection to God’s presence. The essence of this message is about renewal and the joy of living in alignment with divine will.
How to apply Acts 2:38 to your life
Consider areas in your life where you need to change or seek forgiveness. Take a step towards that change by expressing your desire to grow and improve. Embrace the support and guidance that comes from a spiritual connection, allowing it to empower your journey forward. Remember, you are not alone in this process of transformation and renewal. Trust in the support available to you as you move forward in faith and purpose. “
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 Peter's story: Peter Preaches at Pentecost (Acts 2:14–41)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
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.
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 2:38
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 2:38
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 2:38 mean?
Acts 2:38 means that Peter is calling people to repent, which involves changing their hearts and minds, and to be baptized in Jesus' name for the forgiveness of their sins. He promises that by doing this, they will receive the Holy Spirit.
What is the meaning of repentance in Acts 2:38?
In Acts 2:38, repentance refers to a sincere change of heart and mind, turning away from past wrongs and seeking forgiveness. It is the first step towards a new life in faith.
What is the significance of baptism in Acts 2:38?
Baptism in Acts 2:38 is a public declaration of faith in Jesus Christ, symbolizing the washing away of sins and a commitment to a new life. It is an important act of obedience following repentance.
What does receiving the Holy Spirit mean in Acts 2:38?
Receiving the Holy Spirit in Acts 2:38 means that after repentance and baptism, believers are gifted with the Holy Spirit, who provides guidance, strength, and empowerment in their spiritual journey.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.