New Testament
Acts 6:14
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
We've heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place and change the customs that Moses handed down to us."
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For we have heard him say, that this Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place, and shall change the customs which Moses delivered us.
What Acts 6:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the accusation against Stephen highlights a significant concern among the Jewish leaders. They claim that Stephen is saying Jesus will destroy the temple and alter the traditions that Moses established. This reflects a deep fear of change and loss of identity. The temple was central to Jewish worship, and Moses' laws were foundational to their way of life. By suggesting that Jesus would bring such drastic changes, they felt threatened. This moment illustrates the tension between the old ways and the new message of Jesus. It also shows how people can resist change, even when it may lead to something better. Stephen's message was not about destruction but about transformation and fulfillment of God's promises. Understanding this context helps us see the struggle between tradition and the new life offered through faith in Jesus. It invites us to reflect on our own resistance to change and how we can embrace new understandings in our lives today. Change can be challenging, but it often leads to growth and deeper understanding.
How to apply Acts 6:14 to your life
Consider how you respond to change in your life. Are you open to new ideas, or do you cling to old ways? Embracing change can lead to personal growth and a deeper understanding of your beliefs. Reflect on areas where you might need to let go and allow for transformation. Trust the process of growth and renewal in your journey of faith and life.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
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Keep studying Acts 6:14
Related Bible verses
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 6:14 mean?
Acts 6:14 refers to accusations against Stephen, claiming he said Jesus would destroy the temple and change Moses' customs. This highlights the fear of change among Jewish leaders, as the temple and Moses' laws were central to their identity.
What is the significance of the customs mentioned in Acts 6:14?
The customs mentioned in Acts 6:14 refer to the laws and traditions given by Moses, which were foundational to Jewish life. The accusation suggests that Jesus' teachings would disrupt these long-held practices, causing concern among the leaders.
How does Acts 6:14 relate to change and tradition?
Acts 6:14 highlights the conflict between the desire to maintain tradition and the inevitability of change. The accusations against Stephen show how people often resist change, even when it may lead to growth and transformation.
What can we learn from Acts 6:14 regarding faith?
Acts 6:14 teaches us about the challenges of embracing new ideas in faith. It encourages reflection on our own resistance to change and the importance of being open to transformation in our beliefs and practices.
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