Acts 1:16
What does Acts 1:16 mean?
A plain-English look at Acts 1:16 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Acts 1:16 means
Peter addresses the brethren, asserting that Old Testament Scripture, spoken through the Holy Spirit by David, had to be fulfilled concerning Judas Iscariot. He points out that Judas, who had betrayed Jesus, was prophesied to fall. This highlights the divine foreknowledge and sovereignty over even tragic human betrayal, emphasizing that God's plan was unfolding precisely as predicted, even through Judas's actions.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000Brethren, it was needful that the scripture should be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit spake before by the mouth of David concerning Judas, who was guide to them that took Jesus.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901Brethren, it was needful that the scripture should be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit spake before by the mouth of David concerning Judas, who was guide to them that took Jesus.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949My brothers, the word of God had to be put into effect, which the Holy Spirit had said before, by the mouth of David, about Judas, who was guide to those who took Jesus,
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862`Men, brethren, it behoved this Writing that it be fulfilled that beforehand the Holy Spirit spake through the mouth of David, concerning Judas, who became guide to those who took Jesus,
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Men, brethren, the scripture must needs be fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost spoke before by the mouth of David concerning Judas, who was the leader of them that apprehended Jesus:
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890Brethren, it was necessary that the scripture should have been fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit spoke before, by the mouth of David, concerning Judas, who became guide to those who took Jesus;
Context
This verse immediately introduces Peter's explanation for the necessity of replacing Judas. His appeal to fulfilled Scripture is critical, grounding their actions in God's eternal plan rather than mere human reaction. By referencing David and the Holy Spirit, he establishes the theological foundation for what follows, moving the community toward a biblically informed decision regarding the vacant apostolic office.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Acts 15:7
And when there had been much questioning, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Brethren, ye know that a good while ago God made choice among you, that by my mouth the Gentiles should hear the word of the gospel, and believe.
- Acts 23:6
But when Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, Brethren, I am a Pharisee, a son of Pharisees: touching the hope and resurrection of the dead I am called in question.
- Mark 12:36
David himself said in the Holy Spirit, The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, Till I make thine enemies the footstool of thy feet.
- Matthew 26:54
How then should the scriptures be fulfilled, that thus it must be?
- 2 Samuel 23:2
The Spirit of Jehovah spake by me, And his word was upon my tongue.
- Acts 2:37
Now when they heardthis, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and the rest of the apostles, Brethren, what shall we do?
Related questions readers ask
Keep reading
Want to dig deeper? Explore Acts 1
Hand-picked devotionals, topical studies, and pastoral answers that draw on Acts 1.
Topics that quote it
Topic
Bible Verses About Evangelism
Evangelism is the commission to share the good news of Jesus Christ with the world, inviting others into God's kingdom.
Topic
Bible Verses About Missions
Scripture shows us that God has a heart for all peoples, and that His plan for redemption extends to every nation and tribe.
Topic
Bible Verses About the Second Coming
The second coming of Jesus Christ is a central hope of believers, signifying His return to earth in power and glory.
What the Bible says about…