“Brothers, sons of the family of Abraham, and those among you who fear God, to us has been sent the message of this salvation.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Paul doesn't just offer a generic "salvation"; he emphasizes "this salvation," pointing directly to Jesus and His finished work. This isn't a "maybe you can be saved" message, but a declaration that salvation has come, and the good news about it is specifically sent to them—both the descendants of Abraham and those who already seek God.
“Brothers, sons of the family of Abraham, and those among you who fear God, to us has been sent the message of this salvation.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Paul is speaking in the synagogue at Antioch, having just recounted Israel's history and the coming of Jesus as its fulfillment. He’s addressing both the Jewish descendants of Abraham and the Gentiles who have joined them in fearing God, directly applying the message of salvation through Jesus to them. This declaration sets the stage for his bold invitation for them to embrace this offered forgiveness and healing.
Paul stands in the synagogue, proclaiming a message of salvation. Who is he addressing? It’s more specific than you might think.
In Acts 13:26, Paul addresses two distinct groups within the synagogue:
The Descendants of Abraham
Paul first calls them "children of the stock of Abraham." This points directly to the ethnic Jews present. They valued their lineage greatly, believing the Messiah would come through Abraham's line. Paul uses this heritage to connect with them, reminding them that the promised salvation is for them.
Those Who Fear God
Next, he addresses "those among you who fear God." This likely refers to Gentile proselytes – non-Jews who had already embraced Judaism and worshipped the God of Israel. They were already living in reverence of God, making them receptive to the full message.
Paul's careful wording shows he's reaching out to everyone present who has a connection, whether by birth or by devotion, to the God of Israel. It’s an inclusive yet specific call.
Paul doesn't just talk about salvation in general; he points to this salvation. What makes it so specific and powerful?
The phrase "this salvation" in verse 26 is crucial. It’s not an abstract concept but a tangible reality Paul is proclaiming.
Centered on Jesus
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Paul had just spoken about Jesus in the preceding verses, highlighting His life, death, and resurrection. Therefore, "this salvation" points directly to the salvation accomplished by Jesus Christ. It's salvation found in union with Him.
A Present Reality
The demonstrative pronoun "this" also emphasizes that the salvation Paul speaks of is not just a future hope, but a present reality offered now. It’s the good news that God has acted in history through Jesus to bring about reconciliation and deliverance.
Paul is making it clear: the salvation being offered is specific, rooted in Jesus' work, and available to be received today.
Understand the original words
adelphoi · Greek Noun
In a biblical context, brothers often refers to fellow members of the covenant community or those sharing a common spiritual ancestry. It emphasizes the communal bond of God's people.
huioi genous Abraam · Greek Noun phrase
A theological designation for the Jewish people as descendants of the patriarch Abraham, emphasizing their role as the historical recipients of God's promises and covenant.
phoboumenoi ton Theon · Greek Verb phrase (participle)
A term describing individuals, often Gentiles, who worshiped the God of Israel and revered the Jewish scriptures without necessarily undergoing full conversion to Judaism. It denotes a reverent awe and submissive attitude toward God.
sōtēria · Greek Noun
The divine offer of deliverance, reconciliation, and eternal life provided through Jesus Christ. It encompasses the rescue from the penalty of sin and the restoration of a relationship with God.
Paul's address in Acts 13:26 highlights that the message of salvation, centered on Jesus Christ, was divinely intended first for the descendants of Abraham (Jews) and also for those who already revered God (Gentile proselytes). This context underscores the transition of the Gospel's proclamation from its Jewish roots to its universal reach.
c. 4 BC - AD 30/33
Life and Ministry of Jesus
Jesus of Nazareth lives, preaches, performs miracles, is crucified, and is raised from the dead. His ministry and resurrection are foundational to the message of salvation.
c. AD 30-33
Crucifixion and Resurrection of Jesus
Jesus is crucified in Jerusalem, and His followers testify to His resurrection. This event is the central act of salvation that Paul proclaims.
c. AD 30-40s
Early Church Spread
The message of salvation through Jesus begins in Jerusalem and spreads throughout Judea and Samaria, and then to Gentiles, carried by apostles and believers.
c. AD 47-49
First Missionary Journey
Paul and Barnabas travel to Cyprus and through Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey), establishing churches among both Jews and Gentiles. This journey sets the stage for Paul's ministry.
c. AD 49
Council of Jerusalem
A pivotal council addresses the inclusion of Gentiles into the early church, affirming that salvation is not dependent on Jewish law. This decision opens the door for wider Gentile inclusion.
c. AD 49-52
Second Missionary Journey
Paul travels again through Asia Minor and into Europe, strengthening churches and continuing to preach the Gospel. This journey leads him to cities like Philippi and Corinth.
c. AD 50-52— this verse
Ministry in Corinth
Paul spends a significant amount of time in Corinth, a major Roman city. He establishes a church there and writes letters to the church in Thessalonica, addressing their understanding of salvation and the return of Christ.
This prophecy foreshadows the Messiah's mission to bring salvation, not just to Israel but to all nations, mirroring Paul's message to both Jews and Gentiles in Pisidian Antioch.
Luke 1:77Zechariah's prophecy speaks of giving 'knowledge of salvation to his people in the forgiveness of their sins,' highlighting the core message of redemption that Paul proclaims.
Acts 3:26Peter's sermon echoes Paul's declaration, stating that God 'sent his Servant first to you, to bless you by turning every one of you from your wickedness,' emphasizing the priority given to the Jewish people in receiving the offer of salvation.
Romans 1:16Paul's powerful declaration that he is 'not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek,' directly supports the inclusive yet prioritized message of Acts 13.
ellicottActs 13:26: "Men and brethren, children of the stock of Abraham, and whosoever among you feareth God, to you is the word of this salvation sent."
(26) Children of the stock of Abraham, and whosoever among you feareth God. —The two classes are, as before (see Note on Acts 13:16 ), again pointedly contrasted with each other. To you is the word of this salvation sent.—The demonstrative pronoun implies that the salvation which St. Paul proclaimed rested on the work of Jesus the Saviour (Acts 13:23)…
barnesActs 13:26: "Men and brethren, children of the stock of Abraham, and whosoever among you feareth God, to you is the word of this salvation sent."
Men and brethren - Paul now exhorts them to embrace the Lord Jesus as the Messiah. He uses, therefore, the most respectful and fraternal language. Children of the stock of Abraham - Descendants of Abraham; you who regard Abraham as your ancestor. He means here to address particularly the native-born Jews; and this appellation is used because they valu…
Paul doesn't just offer a generic "salvation"; he emphasizes "this salvation," pointing directly to Jesus and His finished work. This isn't a "maybe you can be saved" message, but a declaration that salvation has come, and the good news about it is specifically sent to them—both the descendants of Abraham and those who already seek God.
Paul is speaking in the synagogue at Antioch, having just recounted Israel's history and the coming of Jesus as its fulfillment. He’s addressing both the Jewish descendants of Abraham and the Gentiles who have joined them in fearing God, directly applying the message of salvation through Jesus to them. This declaration sets the stage for his bold invitation for them to embrace this offered forgiveness and healing.
Paul is speaking in the synagogue at Antioch, having just recounted Israel's history and the coming of Jesus as its fulfillment. He’s addressing both the Jewish descendants of Abraham and the Gentiles who have joined them in fearing God, directly applying the message of salvation through Jesus to them. This declaration sets the stage for his bold invitation for them to embrace this offered forgiveness and healing.
"“Brothers, sons of the family of Abraham, and those among you who fear God, to us has been sent the message of this salvation." — Paul doesn't just offer a generic "salvation"; he emphasizes "this salvation," pointing directly to Jesus and His finished work. This isn't a "maybe you can be saved" message, but a declaration that…
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Last reviewed October 2026