New Testament
Acts 3:21
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Heaven must receive him until the time comes for God to restore all things — just as he promised long ago through his holy prophets.
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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.
What Acts 3:21 means
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.
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
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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
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Keep studying Acts 3:21
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 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.
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