New Testament
Acts 3:14
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You rejected the Holy and Righteous One and demanded that a murderer be set free instead.
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But ye denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer to be granted unto you;
What Acts 3:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Peter confronts the crowd about their choice during Jesus' trial. They chose to reject Jesus, who was pure and just, and instead asked for the release of Barabbas, a known criminal. This moment highlights a profound irony: the people turned away from the one who could save them and opted for someone who represented chaos and violence. It serves as a powerful reminder of how easily we can make choices that lead us away from what is good and right. The rejection of Jesus symbolizes a deeper struggle within humanity, where we often choose temporary satisfaction over lasting truth. This verse challenges us to reflect on our own decisions and the values we uphold. Are we, too, sometimes drawn to what is harmful instead of what is truly beneficial for our lives and souls? Understanding this moment can help us recognize the importance of making choices that align with goodness and righteousness in our daily lives, rather than succumbing to the pressures of the moment.
How to apply Acts 3:14 to your life
This verse encourages us to examine our choices and their consequences. Are we choosing what is right, or are we swayed by popular opinion? Reflect on your decisions today and strive to align them with values that promote goodness and justice in your life and community. Choose wisely, as your choices shape your path forward.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
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Illustrated scene from Peter's story: Healing at the Beautiful Gate (Acts 3:1–26)
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Peter
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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Keep studying Acts 3:14
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 3:14 mean?
Acts 3:14 highlights the choice made by the crowd to reject Jesus, who is described as the Holy and Righteous One, in favor of releasing Barabbas, a murderer. This verse emphasizes the irony of choosing evil over good and serves as a reminder of the consequences of our choices.
What is the significance of the Holy One in Acts 3:14?
The term 'Holy One' in Acts 3:14 refers to Jesus, underscoring His purity and righteousness. By rejecting Him, the crowd chose to turn away from the source of salvation and truth.
What does the phrase 'demanded that a murderer be set free' mean in Acts 3:14?
This phrase illustrates the crowd's decision to prioritize the release of Barabbas, a known criminal, over Jesus, who represented justice and goodness. It highlights the troubling tendency to choose immediate gratification over moral integrity.
What is the context of Acts 3:14?
Acts 3:14 occurs after Peter and John heal a lame man, and Peter addresses the crowd, reminding them of their role in rejecting Jesus during His trial. It serves as a call to recognize their mistake and the importance of accepting Jesus.
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