New Testament
Acts 22:18
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
and saw him saying to me, 'Hurry! Get out of Jerusalem quickly, because they will not accept your testimony about me.'
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And saw him saying unto me, Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy testimony concerning me.
What Acts 22:18 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Paul recounts a significant experience where he hears a voice urging him to leave Jerusalem. The urgency in the message highlights the danger he faces. The people in Jerusalem are not ready to accept his message about Jesus. This reflects a broader theme of rejection that many face when sharing their beliefs. Paul’s situation serves as a reminder that sometimes, despite our best intentions, our message may not be welcomed. The call to leave quickly emphasizes the importance of safety and discernment in our actions. It also illustrates how God guides us, even when the path ahead seems uncertain. This moment is pivotal for Paul, as it shapes his mission and future interactions. It encourages us to listen for guidance in our own lives, especially when we feel resistance or hostility. Understanding this can help us navigate our own challenges with faith and courage, knowing that we are not alone in our journeys of belief and testimony about what we hold dear.
How to apply Acts 22:18 to your life
When faced with rejection, remember that it’s okay to step back and reassess your situation. Trust that you are being guided, even if it feels uncomfortable. Seek wisdom in your decisions and be open to new paths that may lead to greater acceptance and understanding. Your message is important, but so is your well-being. Stay connected to your purpose and values as you navigate challenges in sharing your beliefs with others. Be courageous.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
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Illustrated scene from Paul's story: Paul Speaks from the Steps (Acts 21:37–22:29)
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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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Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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Keep studying Acts 22:18
Related Bible verses
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 22:18 mean?
Acts 22:18 recounts a moment where Paul hears a voice urging him to leave Jerusalem quickly due to the danger he faces. This highlights the urgency of his situation and the rejection he would encounter when sharing his testimony about Jesus.
What is the significance of the urgency in Acts 22:18?
The urgency in Acts 22:18 emphasizes the immediate danger Paul is in, suggesting that sometimes it is necessary to act quickly for safety. It also reflects the broader theme of rejection that many face when sharing their beliefs.
What does the phrase 'they will not accept your testimony' mean in Acts 22:18?
The phrase indicates that the people in Jerusalem are not open to hearing Paul's message about Jesus. This rejection serves as a reminder that not everyone will be receptive to our beliefs or testimonies.
How does Acts 22:18 relate to guidance in difficult situations?
Acts 22:18 illustrates how God guides individuals, even in uncertain circumstances. Paul's experience encourages us to seek and listen for guidance when we face resistance or hostility in our own lives.
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