New Testament
Acts 7:43
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the speaker is addressing a group who have turned away from true worship.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
No — you carried along the shrine of Moloch and the star of your god Rephan, idols you made to worship. So I will send you into exile beyond Babylon.'
Yea, ye took up the tabernacle of Moloch, and the star of your god Remphan, figures which ye made to worship them: and I will carry you away beyond Babylon.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the speaker is addressing a group who have turned away from true worship. They are accused of carrying the shrine of Moloch and the star of Rephan, which are idols they created to worship instead of God. This act of idolatry signifies a deep betrayal of their faith. The speaker warns that because of this disobedience, they will face consequences, specifically exile beyond Babylon. This reflects a broader theme of accountability for one's actions and the dangers of turning to false gods. The mention of Moloch and Rephan highlights the allure of these idols, which can distract people from their true purpose. Ultimately, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of genuine worship and the risks of allowing distractions to take precedence over faithfulness to God. It challenges us to examine what we prioritize in our lives and to ensure that we are not worshiping things that lead us away from our true values and beliefs. Idolatry can take many forms, and we must remain vigilant.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Acts 7:43 to your life
Reflect on what occupies your time and attention. Are there distractions in your life that pull you away from your core values? Make a conscious effort to prioritize what truly matters and ensure your actions align with your beliefs. This can lead to a more fulfilling life and deeper connections with others and yourself. Stay focused on your true purpose and values, avoiding the allure of false idols that can lead you astray.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Acts 7:43 mean?
Acts 7:43 addresses the issue of idolatry, where the speaker accuses people of worshiping false gods like Moloch and Rephan instead of the true God. This verse highlights the consequences of turning away from genuine worship, warning that such actions lead to exile and separation from God.
What is the significance of Moloch in Acts 7:43?
Moloch represents a false god associated with idol worship and child sacrifice. In Acts 7:43, the mention of Moloch emphasizes the betrayal of true faith and the dangers of prioritizing idols over a relationship with God.
What does the star of Rephan symbolize in Acts 7:43?
The star of Rephan symbolizes another false god worshiped by the people, indicating their turn away from true worship. This reference serves to illustrate the broader theme of idolatry and the consequences of placing trust in created things rather than the Creator.
What are the consequences mentioned in Acts 7:43?
Acts 7:43 warns that the consequence of idolatry is exile beyond Babylon, symbolizing separation from God and the community. This reflects the serious repercussions of turning away from true worship and the accountability individuals face for their actions.

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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