Acts 13:38

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

Acts 13:38 (KJV)

Context

Acts 13:38 comes from Paul’s sermon in the synagogue at Antioch of Pisidia, a message that spans Acts 13:16-41. Paul recounts Israel’s history, showing God’s faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises in Jesus Christ. The immediate context includes the incarnation, death, and resurrection of Christ (Acts 13:23-37). In verse 38, Paul draws the conclusion from all that he has declared: through this man, Jesus, the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed.

Meaning

The Greek verb translated “is preached” (καταγγέλλεται, katangelleitai) means “is announced” or “is proclaimed,” indicating a public, authoritative declaration. The phrase “forgiveness of sins” (ἄφεσις ἁμαρτιῶν) denotes release or remission. Paul is not offering an opinion but making a solemn announcement: through Jesus, sins are forgiven. This is the heart of the Gospel message, highlighting the central purpose of Christ’s coming into the world: to offer forgiveness and reconciliation between humanity and God.

Paul addresses his audience as “men and brethren,” showing he is speaking to a Jewish audience in the synagogue. Yet the offer is universal in scope. It is not limited to a specific group or ethnicity but is available to all who believe. This inclusiveness reflects God’s desire for all people to be saved and experience His forgiveness.

Paul emphasizes that it is “through this man” that forgiveness of sins is preached. The “man” is Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross provides the means for forgiveness. Through His atoning work, Jesus paid the price for sin, satisfying God’s justice and making forgiveness possible for all who put their trust in Him.

Biblical connections

The next verse, Acts 13:39, clarifies that through Jesus everyone who believes is justified from all things from which the law of Moses could not justify. This shows that forgiveness is through Christ alone, not through the law. The forgiveness of sins is not earned through human effort or good works but is a result of God’s grace. It is freely offered to all who believe in Jesus and accept Him as Lord and Savior. This truth underscores the essential message of salvation: salvation is a gift from God received through faith in Christ.

Application

Sin separates humanity from God, and forgiveness is the means by which this separation is overcome. The forgiveness of sins provides restoration, reconciliation, and a renewed relationship with God. It brings peace, freedom, and the assurance of eternal life in God’s presence. Upon hearing this message, individuals are called to respond in faith and repentance. They are urged to turn away from their sins and place their trust in Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord. Through this response, they receive the forgiveness of sins and are born again into a new life in Christ.

Reflection

Acts 13:38 encapsulates the heart of the Gospel: forgiveness of sins through Jesus Christ. It reminds us of God’s grace and the universal offer of salvation, calling us to respond in faith and receive the gift of forgiveness for the transformation of our lives.