Acts 13:39

Through Him everyone who believes is justified from everything you could not be justified from by the law of Moses.

Study Bible

Through Him
This phrase refers to Jesus Christ, the central figure of the Christian faith. The Greek word for "through" is "διὰ" (dia), indicating the means or agency by which something is accomplished. In this context, it emphasizes that justification, or being made right with God, is possible only through Jesus. Historically, this underscores the early Christian belief that Jesus is the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies and the mediator of a new covenant, as opposed to the old covenant represented by the law of Moses.

everyone who believes
The Greek word for "believes" is "πιστεύων" (pisteuōn), which implies a continuous, active faith. This phrase highlights the inclusivity of the Gospel message—salvation is available to all, regardless of background, who place their faith in Christ. This was a radical departure from the Jewish understanding of the time, which was more exclusive and centered on ethnic and religious identity. The early church's mission was to spread this message of universal salvation, breaking down barriers between Jews and Gentiles.

is justified
The term "justified" comes from the Greek "δικαιοῦται" (dikaioutai), meaning to be declared righteous or acquitted. In a legal sense, it implies a verdict of innocence. This concept is central to Pauline theology, where justification is a gift from God, granted through faith in Jesus Christ, rather than through adherence to the law. This was a transformative idea for early Christians, as it shifted the focus from human efforts to divine grace.

from everything
This phrase underscores the comprehensive nature of the justification offered through Christ. It implies that there is no sin or transgression too great to be forgiven. The early church taught that Christ's sacrifice was sufficient to cover all sins, a message that brought hope and liberation to believers who struggled under the weight of the law and their own shortcomings.

you could not be justified from
This part of the verse contrasts the limitations of the Mosaic Law with the sufficiency of Christ's atonement. The law, while holy and good, was unable to provide complete justification because it required perfect adherence, which was impossible for fallen humanity. This highlights the need for a savior and the inadequacy of human efforts to achieve righteousness on their own.

by the law of Moses
The "law of Moses" refers to the Torah, the first five books of the Old Testament, which contain the commandments and regulations given to the Israelites. The law served as a guide and a tutor, pointing out sin but unable to remove it. In the historical context, the law was central to Jewish identity and religious practice. However, the early Christian message, as articulated by Paul, was that the law's purpose was to lead people to Christ, who alone could provide true justification and reconciliation with God. This teaching was revolutionary and often controversial, as it challenged deeply held beliefs and traditions.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
The apostle who is delivering the message in Acts 13. He is speaking to the people in the synagogue in Pisidian Antioch, explaining the fulfillment of the law through Jesus Christ.

2. Barnabas
Paul's companion on his missionary journey, present during this sermon in the synagogue.

3. Pisidian Antioch
A city in the region of Galatia where Paul and Barnabas preached in the synagogue, addressing both Jews and God-fearing Gentiles.

4. The Law of Moses
Refers to the commandments and regulations given to the Israelites in the Old Testament, which were unable to fully justify or make people righteous before God.

5. Jesus Christ
The central figure through whom justification is offered, fulfilling what the law could not accomplish.

Teaching Points

Justification by Faith
Emphasize that justification, or being declared righteous before God, is available to everyone who believes in Jesus Christ. This is a gift of grace, not earned by adherence to the law.

The Limitations of the Law
The law of Moses, while holy and good, was never intended to be the means of salvation. It reveals sin but cannot remove it. Only through Christ can we be truly justified.

The Universality of the Gospel
The message of justification through Christ is for everyone, regardless of background or previous adherence to the law. This underscores the inclusive nature of the Gospel.

Freedom in Christ
Believers are freed from the burden of trying to earn righteousness through the law. This freedom should lead to a life of gratitude and service, not a license to sin.

Faith and Works
While justification is by faith alone, true faith will naturally produce good works. These works are the fruit of a transformed life, not the means to earn salvation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding justification by faith change your perspective on your relationship with God?

2. In what ways can the limitations of the law help us appreciate the work of Christ more deeply?

3. How can we ensure that we are living in the freedom that Christ provides, without falling back into legalism?

4. What are some practical ways to demonstrate the universality of the Gospel in our communities?

5. How can we balance the understanding that we are justified by faith with the call to live a life that reflects our faith through good works?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Romans 3:20-24
This passage explains that no one will be justified by the works of the law, but rather through faith in Jesus Christ, who provides redemption and justification freely by His grace.

Galatians 2:16
Paul reiterates that a person is not justified by the works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ, emphasizing the insufficiency of the law for salvation.

Hebrews 10:1-4
Discusses the limitations of the law and the sacrificial system, which could not make perfect those who draw near to worship, pointing to the need for a better sacrifice.