New Testament
Acts 3:21
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse tells us that Jesus is currently in heaven, waiting for the right moment when God will make everything new again.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Heaven must receive him until the time comes for God to restore all things — just as he promised long ago through his holy prophets.
Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse tells us that Jesus is currently in heaven, waiting for the right moment when God will make everything new again. This restoration is something God promised long ago through his prophets. It’s a reminder that God has a plan for the world, and He is in control. The idea of restoration means that all the brokenness and pain we see will one day be healed. This promise gives us hope, knowing that our struggles are temporary. We can trust that God will fulfill His promises, and that there is a future where everything will be made right. This assurance encourages us to keep faith and look forward to a better tomorrow, where God’s love and justice will reign. In the meantime, we are called to live in a way that reflects this hope and to share it with others, reminding them that they are not alone in their struggles. God’s timing is perfect, and we can find peace in that truth as we wait for His restoration to unfold in our lives and the world around us.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Acts 3:21 to your life
Reflect on the areas of your life that feel broken or hopeless. Trust that God has a plan for restoration, and hold onto the hope that things can change for the better. Share this message of hope with others who may be struggling, reminding them they are not alone in their journey.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Acts 3:21 mean?
Acts 3:21 means that Jesus is currently in heaven, waiting for the right time when God will restore everything. This restoration is a promise God made through the prophets, indicating that all brokenness will eventually be healed.
What is the meaning of restoration in Acts 3:21?
Restoration in Acts 3:21 refers to the process by which God will make everything new and right again. It signifies hope for healing and renewal in a world that often feels broken.
How does Acts 3:21 relate to hope?
Acts 3:21 relates to hope by assuring us that despite current struggles, God has a plan for restoration. It encourages believers to trust that healing and renewal will come in God's perfect timing.

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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