New Testament

Acts 3:14

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, Peter confronts the crowd about their choice during Jesus' trial.

Author
Luke the physician
Written
Around AD 62
Genre
Historical narrative
Original Audience
Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
CBTClear Bible Translation

You rejected the Holy and Righteous One and demanded that a murderer be set free instead.

KJVKing James Version

But ye denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer to be granted unto you;

Verse Analysis

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.

Key themes

Related topics

rejection, choices, justice

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

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.

The Book of Acts
Book Summary

The Book of Acts

Acts 1: The Ascension and the Choosing of Matthias

Jesus shows himself alive to the apostles after his suffering, speaking about the kingdom of God. He commands them not to leave Jerusalem but to wait for the promise of the Father, saying they will be baptized with the Holy Ghost soon. They ask if he will restore the kingdom to Israel, and he tells them it is not for them to know the times, but they will receive power when the Holy Ghost comes upon them and will be witnesses in Jerusalem, Judaea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. As they watch, he is taken up, and a cloud receives him out of their sight. Two men in white apparel tell them that this same Jesus will return in the same way they have seen him go.

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