New Testament
Acts 4:31
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
After finishing their prayer, the atmosphere around the believers changed dramatically.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
When they finished praying, the place where they were meeting shook. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking the word of God with boldness.
And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
After finishing their prayer, the atmosphere around the believers changed dramatically. The place where they gathered shook, indicating a powerful presence. They were filled with the Holy Spirit, which empowered them to speak confidently about their faith. This moment was transformative, as they were no longer afraid to share their beliefs. The boldness they exhibited came from a deep connection with the Spirit. Their experience shows how prayer can lead to profound changes in our lives. When we seek God earnestly, we can expect to be filled with courage and strength to face challenges. This passage reminds us that divine support is available when we step out in faith and share our truths with others. It encourages us to rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance and boldness in our own lives, especially when we feel hesitant or afraid to speak up for what we believe in. The shaking of the place symbolizes the impact of their faith and the power of community in prayer and action.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Acts 4:31 to your life
When you feel hesitant to share your beliefs, remember this story. Pray earnestly and ask for the Holy Spirit's guidance. Trust that you will be empowered to speak with confidence. Surround yourself with a supportive community that encourages you to share your faith boldly. Take small steps to express your beliefs in everyday conversations, and watch how your courage grows over time.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Acts 4:31 teach about the power of prayer?
Acts 4:31 highlights the transformative power of prayer among believers. After they prayed, the place shook, symbolizing God's presence and approval. This event shows that earnest prayer can lead to divine intervention and empowerment, encouraging believers to speak boldly about their faith. It reminds us that prayer is not just a ritual but a powerful means of connecting with God and receiving strength to face challenges.
How can I apply the boldness from Acts 4:31 in my life?
To apply the boldness from Acts 4:31, start by praying earnestly for the Holy Spirit's guidance. Seek opportunities to share your beliefs in everyday conversations, even in small ways. Surround yourself with a supportive community that encourages faith-sharing. As you practice speaking up, your confidence will grow. Remember, boldness comes from a deep connection with God, so stay rooted in prayer and trust in His empowerment.
Why did the place shake in Acts 4:31?
The shaking of the place in Acts 4:31 symbolizes the powerful presence of God among the believers. It serves as a physical manifestation of divine approval and the Holy Spirit's activity. This dramatic event underscores the seriousness of their prayer and the transformative impact of their faith, illustrating that when believers gather in unity and earnest prayer, God responds in powerful ways.
What role does community play in the message of Acts 4:31?
Community plays a crucial role in Acts 4:31, as the believers gathered together in prayer. Their collective faith and unity amplified their experience of the Holy Spirit's power. This passage emphasizes the importance of being part of a supportive community that encourages prayer and boldness in sharing faith. Together, believers can inspire and strengthen one another, leading to transformative experiences and greater courage in their spiritual journeys.
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.
Unlock the full Acts summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Acts — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 28 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Acts summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.