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Acts 18:6

And when they opposed themselves, and blasphemed, he shook his raiment, and said unto them, Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean: from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles.

Acts 18:6 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse from Acts 18:6, we see the apostle Paul responding to a group of Jews who were rejecting the message of Jesus Christ. Despite facing opposition and blasphemy, Paul remained steadfast in his mission to spread the gospel. By shaking his raiment, Paul symbolically expressed that he was done with trying to convince his fellow Jews and that he was now turning his focus towards the Gentiles. This action demonstrated Paul's determination to fulfill his calling and preach the message of salvation to those who were willing to receive it. The phrase "Your blood be upon your own heads" suggests that the responsibility for their rejection would ultimately fall on the Jews themselves, as Paul had done all he could to share the truth with them. By declaring himself clean and indicating his intention to turn to the Gentiles, Paul was making a decisive shift in his ministry, emphasizing the importance of reaching out to a wider audience with the message of salvation.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of Acts, the apostle Paul is addressing a group of Jews who opposed and blasphemed him. Despite facing resistance and insults from his own people, Paul shows a strong sense of resolve and determination to continue spreading the message of Christianity. By shaking his raiment and declaring that the responsibility for their actions lies with themselves, he is symbolically washing his hands of any guilt or blame. This act signifies Paul's readiness to move on from the Jewish audience and turn his attention towards the Gentiles, who may be more receptive to his teachings. The phrase "Your blood be upon your own heads" reflects a common biblical theme of personal accountability and consequences for one's actions. By distancing himself from the Jews who rejected him, Paul is illustrating his commitment to following his divine calling and bringing the message of salvation to all people, regardless of their background.

Acts 18:6 in other translations

American Standard Version

And when they opposed themselves and blasphemed, he shook out his raiment and said unto them, Your blood [be] upon your own heads; I am clean: from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles. [

World English Bible

When they opposed him and blasphemed, he shook out his clothing and said to them, “Your blood be on your own heads! I am clean. From now on, I will go to the Gentiles!”

Douay-Rheims

But they gainsaying and blaspheming, he shook his garments and said to them: Your blood be upon your own heads: I am clean. From henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles.

Geneva Bible (1599)

And when they resisted and blasphemed, he shooke his raiment, and saide vnto them, Your blood be vpon your owne head: I am cleane: from henceforth will I goe vnto the Gentiles.