Acts 13:38

What does Acts 13:38 mean?

A plain-English look at Acts 13:38 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Acts 13:38 means

Paul draws a crucial theological conclusion from Jesus’s death and resurrection: through this man, Jesus, the remission of sins is proclaimed to them, his audience. This means that forgiveness of sins is now available, not through adherence to the Law, but solely through Christ. This declaration highlights the transformative power of the gospel, offering a clean slate and reconciliation with God. It underscores that Jesus's sacrifice provides the definitive means for dealing with human sin.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

Be it known unto you therefore, brethren, that through this man is proclaimed unto you remission of sins:

KJV

King James Version · 1611

Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins:

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

Be it known unto you therefore, brethren, that through this man is proclaimed unto you remission of sins:

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And so, let it be clear to you, my brothers, that through this man forgiveness of sins is offered to you:

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

`Let it therefore be known to you, men, brethren, that through this one to you is the forgiveness of sins declared,

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

Be it known therefore to you, men, brethren, that through him forgiveness of sins is preached to you: and from all the things from which you could not be justified by the law of Moses.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

Be it known unto you, therefore, brethren, that through this man remission of sins is preached to you,

Context

Having established Jesus's unique, incorruptible resurrection through scriptural arguments in verses 30-37, Paul now dramatically pivots to the practical implications of this truth in this verse. He directly addresses his audience, making a clear offer of the 'remission of sins' through Jesus. This foundational gospel truth is immediately expanded upon in verse 39, explaining that this forgiveness and justification extend beyond what the Law of Moses could ever provide, setting the stage for a choice before the listeners.

v.37but he whom God raised up saw no corruption.

v.38This passage

v.39and by him every one that believeth is justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Hebrews 8:12

    For I will be merciful to their iniquities, And their sins will I remember no more.

  • Micah 7:18

    Who is a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth over the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth in lovingkindness.

  • Zechariah 13:1

    In that day there shall be a fountain opened to the house of David and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, for sin and for uncleanness.

  • Daniel 3:18

    But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.

  • Ephesians 4:32

    and be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving each other, even as God also in Christ forgave you.

  • Ezekiel 36:32

    Nor for your sake do Ithis, saith the Lord Jehovah, be it known unto you: be ashamed and confounded for your ways, O house of Israel.

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