New Testament
Acts 22:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Then he said to me, 'Go, for I will send you far away to the Gentiles.'"
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And he said unto me, Depart: for I will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles.
What Acts 22:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Paul recounts a significant turning point in his life. He shares how he received a direct command from God to go and spread the message to the Gentiles, who were non-Jews. This was a bold move, as it challenged the norms of his time. Paul was being called to reach out to people who were often marginalized and excluded from the faith community. The message emphasizes that God's love and purpose extend beyond cultural and ethnic boundaries. It highlights the importance of being open to new paths and opportunities that may seem unconventional. Paul's journey illustrates that everyone has a role in sharing hope and truth, regardless of their background. This call to action reminds us that we are all invited to participate in a larger story of connection and understanding. It encourages us to embrace diversity and reach out to those who may feel distant from faith or community, fostering inclusivity and compassion in our lives and interactions with others.
How to apply Acts 22:21 to your life
Consider how you can reach out to those who are different from you. Look for opportunities to connect with people from various backgrounds. Embrace the idea that everyone deserves to hear a message of hope and love, regardless of their past or identity. Your actions can make a difference in someone's life today. Be open to new relationships and experiences that challenge your comfort zone.
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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The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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Keep studying Acts 22:21
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 22:21 mean?
Acts 22:21 recounts Paul's experience of receiving a command from God to go and share the message of faith with the Gentiles, or non-Jews. This moment signifies a pivotal shift in his mission, emphasizing that God's message is for everyone, regardless of their background.
What is the significance of 'send you far away to the Gentiles' in Acts 22:21?
The phrase 'send you far away to the Gentiles' highlights the expansion of the Christian message beyond Jewish communities. It underscores the importance of inclusivity and reaching out to those who may feel excluded from faith.
How does Acts 22:21 relate to diversity and inclusivity?
Acts 22:21 relates to diversity and inclusivity by showing that God's love and purpose extend to all people, regardless of their cultural or ethnic identity. It encourages believers to embrace and connect with those who are different.
What can we learn from Acts 22:21?
From Acts 22:21, we learn the importance of being open to new opportunities and relationships that challenge our comfort zones. It encourages us to actively reach out to others, fostering understanding and compassion.
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