Acts 13:38

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

Be it {G2077} known {G1110} unto you {G5213} therefore {G3767}, men {G435} and brethren {G80}, that {G3754} through {G1223} this man {G5127} is preached {G2605} unto you {G5213} the forgiveness {G859} of sins {G266}:

“Therefore, brothers, let it be known to you that through this man is proclaimed forgiveness of sins!

Therefore let it be known to you, brothers, that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you.

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

Context of Acts 13:38

This verse is a pivotal declaration made by the Apostle Paul during his sermon in the synagogue at Pisidian Antioch, recorded in Acts chapter 13. Paul has just traced Israel's history, the coming of John the Baptist, and the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Following this historical and theological groundwork, he arrives at the core message: the availability of forgiveness through Jesus. His audience consists of both Jews and Gentile proselytes, making the announcement of this new covenant truth profoundly significant in a setting deeply rooted in the Law.

Key Themes and Messages

  • The Centrality of Forgiveness: The primary message of Acts 13:38 is the direct and free offer of "the forgiveness of sins." This addresses humanity's fundamental problem of sin and separation from God, emphasizing that reconciliation is possible.
  • Jesus Christ as the Sole Means: The phrase "through this man" unequivocally points to Jesus Christ as the exclusive means by which forgiveness is obtained. It underscores His unique role as the Savior, whose sacrificial death and resurrection made this pardon possible.
  • The Nature of the Gospel Proclamation: The verse highlights that this message is "preached unto you," emphasizing the active and public declaration of the good news. It is not a secret teaching but a truth to be openly proclaimed to all who will hear. This echoes the Great Commission to make disciples of all nations.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek phrase translated "forgiveness of sins" is aphesis hamartion (ἄφεσις ἁμαρτιῶν). Aphesis literally means a "sending away," "release," or "remission." It implies a complete dismissal or cancellation of debt, not merely a covering up. This signifies that sins are not just overlooked but truly removed, providing a total pardon and freedom from their guilt and power. This concept is foundational to the redemption offered through Christ's blood.

Related Scriptures

This declaration sets the stage for the next verse, Acts 13:39, which clarifies that through Jesus, everyone who believes is justified from everything they could not be justified from by the Law of Moses. The concept of forgiveness through Christ is a consistent theme throughout the New Testament, as seen in Ephesians 1:7, which states, "In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace." Jesus Himself stated His unique role in John 14:6, proclaiming, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."

Practical Application

Acts 13:38 remains a core truth for believers today. It reminds us that:

  1. Hope for All: Regardless of past mistakes or sins, the offer of forgiveness through Jesus is available to everyone. It provides a pathway to a new beginning and a restored relationship with God.
  2. The Simplicity of the Message: The Gospel is straightforward: Jesus Christ is the means by which sins are forgiven. This powerful truth calls for a response of faith and repentance.
  3. Our Mission: Just as Paul preached this message, believers are called to share this good news with others. The message of forgiveness through Jesus is the central hope the world needs to hear.
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Luke 24:47

    And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.

  • 1 John 2:12

    ¶ I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name's sake.

  • 2 Corinthians 5:18

    And all things [are] of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;

  • 2 Corinthians 5:21

    For he hath made him [to be] sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

  • Acts 5:31

    Him hath God exalted with his right hand [to be] a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.

  • Colossians 1:14

    In whom we have redemption through his blood, [even] the forgiveness of sins:

  • Acts 2:38

    Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
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