Acts 13:47
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 13:47
47 For so hath the Lord commanded us, saying, I have set thee to be a light of the Gentiles, that thou shouldest be for salvation unto the ends of the earth.
Chapter Context
Acts 13 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of covenant, hope, prayer. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Chronicles Christianity's spread across the Roman Empire despite official and unofficial opposition.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-52: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Acts and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Acts 13:47
47 For so hath the Lord commanded us, saying, I have set thee to be a light of the Gentiles, that thou shouldest be for salvation unto the ends of the earth.
Analysis
Paul's quotation of Isaiah 49:6 applies the Servant's mission to Christian witnesses, showing Gentile inclusion fulfilled Old Testament prophecy. The phrase 'a light to the Gentiles' and 'salvation unto the ends of the earth' establishes the universal scope of gospel mission. This biblical foundation justified Paul's strategic turn from resistant Jews to receptive Gentiles.
Historical Context
In Pisidian Antioch (AD 48), Jewish opposition drove Paul to explicit Gentile focus. This pattern (Jews first, then Gentiles after rejection) repeated throughout Paul's ministry, though he never abandoned hope for Jewish salvation (Romans 9-11).
Reflection
- How does Old Testament prophecy establish the legitimacy of Gentile mission?
- What principles guide prioritizing ministry to responsive audiences versus persistent outreach to resistant groups?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master
Cross-References
- Salvation: Isaiah 45:22, 49:6
- References Lord: Amos 9:12
- Light: Isaiah 42:1, 42:6, 60:3, Luke 2:32
- Parallel theme: Acts 1:8, Hosea 1:10, Matthew 28:19