Acts 13:38
Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins:
Original Language Analysis
οὖν
therefore
G3767
οὖν
therefore
Strong's:
G3767
Word #:
2 of 13
(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly
ἔστω
Be it
G2077
ἔστω
Be it
Strong's:
G2077
Word #:
3 of 13
be thou; also ??????? <pronunciation strongs="es'-to-san"/>, third person of the same; let them be
ἀδελφοί
and brethren
G80
ἀδελφοί
and brethren
Strong's:
G80
Word #:
6 of 13
a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote (much like g0001)
ὅτι
that
G3754
ὅτι
that
Strong's:
G3754
Word #:
7 of 13
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
διὰ
through
G1223
διὰ
through
Strong's:
G1223
Word #:
8 of 13
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
Cross References
Luke 24:47And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.Acts 5:31Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.1 John 2:12I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name's sake.Acts 2:38Then 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.Colossians 1:14In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:Acts 28:28Be it known therefore unto you, that the salvation of God is sent unto the Gentiles, and that they will hear it.Acts 10:43To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.Ephesians 1:7In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;John 1:29The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.Hebrews 9:22And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission.
Historical Context
Paul's sermon in the synagogue at Pisidian Antioch during his first missionary journey (circa 47-48 AD). The audience included Jews and God-fearing Gentiles (v.16, 26). Paul traced Israel's history from Egypt through David, showing Christ as the promised Davidic Seed (vv.16-37). This sermon's structure parallels Peter's Acts 2 address, suggesting established apostolic preaching patterns.
Questions for Reflection
- How does identifying Jesus as 'this man' emphasize the incarnation's necessity for salvation?
- What difference does it make that forgiveness is 'preached' publicly versus privately offered?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins—Paul's first recorded sermon (in Pisidian Antioch) declares Christ as the source of forgiveness. Through this man (διὰ τούτου) identifies the risen Jesus just described (vv.30-37) as God's sole means of pardon. Forgiveness of sins (ἄφεσις ἁμαρτιῶν) echoes Peter's Pentecost message (2:38), establishing consistent apostolic gospel. The phrase 'is preached' (καταγγέλλεται) emphasizes public proclamation—this isn't private gnosis but universal announcement demanding response.