King James Version

What Does Acts 2:40 Mean?

“And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation.”

Context

Then 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.

For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off , even as many as the Lord our God shall call .

And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation.

Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.

And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.

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Topics in This Verse

Salvation

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(40) **With many other words.**—The report breaks off, as if St. Luke’s informant had followed closely up to this point and then lost count of the sequence of thought and words. **Did he testify**—i.e., *continued to testify.* **Save yourselves.**—Literally, in the passive, *Be ye saved.* They were invited to submit to God’s way of salvation, to accept Jesus as their Saviour. **From this untoward generation.**—Literally, *from this crooked generation, *as the word is rendered in Luke 3:5; Philippians 2:15.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Acts. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Acts 2:40 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.