Acts·Chapter 13

Chapter Context

Alright, picture this: a group of people gathered to hear a passionate speaker—Paul, a guy who’s been through it all. He’s just shared the incredible story of how God has been working through history, leading up to the arrival of Jesus. Then comes the punchline: forgiveness of sins! This verse falls right after a deep history lesson, and it’s like the cherry on top. It takes the idea of hope and redemption and makes it personal. Paul is saying, 'This isn’t just for the past—this is for you today!' It’s a pivotal moment that shifts the entire narrative, pushing the crowd from history into a personal relationship with forgiveness.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• be - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• known - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• you - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• therefore - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• brothers - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• that - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• through - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• man - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• forgiveness - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• sins - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

What does it mean for you personally to know that forgiveness of sins is available through this one person? How does that change your view of your own past?

Related Verses

• Isaiah 53:5 - Written about 700 years before this, it talks about how someone would suffer for our mistakes, connecting to the idea of forgiveness.
• John 1:29 - Here, John the Baptist points to Jesus as 'the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world,' linking back to this promise of forgiveness.
• Romans 3:23-24 - Paul writes that everyone has messed up but can be made right through grace, echoing the idea that forgiveness is available for all.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Acts 13:38. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Missionary Commissioning, Role of the Holy Spirit, Miraculous Encounters, Faith and Opposition, Proclamation of the Gospel, Historical Narrative, God's Faithfulness

Key Verses

Acts 13:2, Acts 13:9-11, Acts 13:12, Acts 13:16, Acts 13:19-20

Historical Context

Acts 13 serves as a critical juncture in the narrative of the early church, showcasing the transition from a primarily Jewish movement to one that actively engages with Gentiles. The church in Antioch is characterized by diversity and a strong sense of mission, which is a model for contemporary congregations. The chapter’s events reflect Luke's broader purpose of documenting the spread of the gospel and the establishment of Christian communities throughout the Roman Empire. The emphasis on the Holy Spirit's guidance reinforces the divine authority behind the church's mission and serves to inspire faith and commitment among believers.