New Testament
Acts 3:2
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
A man who had been lame since birth was carried every day to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he asked for alms from those entering the temple.
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And a certain man lame from his mother’s womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple;
What Acts 3:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we meet a man who has been unable to walk since he was born. Every day, he is carried to a beautiful gate of the temple, where he sits and asks for money from those who enter. This man represents many who find themselves in difficult situations, relying on the kindness of others for support. His daily routine highlights the struggles faced by those in need and the importance of community. The temple gate, known as Beautiful, symbolizes hope and the possibility of change. As people pass by, they have the opportunity to make a difference in his life, even with a small act of generosity. This moment sets the stage for a significant encounter that will change everything for him. It reminds us that everyone has a story and that compassion can lead to transformation. The man’s condition and his location at the temple gate invite us to reflect on our own lives and how we can help those around us who are struggling, both physically and emotionally. His story is a call to action for us all.
How to apply Acts 3:2 to your life
Consider how you can be a source of support for someone in need. Small acts of kindness can have a profound impact on others' lives. Look for opportunities to help those around you, whether through time, resources, or simply a listening ear. Your actions can bring hope and change to someone struggling today. Be the difference you wish to see in the world.
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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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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Keep studying Acts 3:2
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 3:2 mean?
Acts 3:2 describes a man who has been unable to walk since birth, highlighting his daily routine of being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful to ask for money from those entering. This verse illustrates the struggles of those in need and the importance of community support.
What is the significance of the Beautiful Gate in Acts 3:2?
The Beautiful Gate symbolizes hope and the possibility of change for the man who is lame. It serves as a place where he can encounter others and seek help, representing the intersection of need and compassion.
How does Acts 3:2 relate to compassion?
Acts 3:2 emphasizes the need for compassion by showing how the man depends on the generosity of those passing by. It reminds us that small acts of kindness can greatly impact those who are struggling.
What can we learn from Acts 3:2?
From Acts 3:2, we learn the importance of being aware of those in need around us and the difference we can make through simple acts of kindness. It encourages us to reflect on our own ability to support others.
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