‘Sirs, what must I do to be saved? Bible Study on Acts 16:30-31
Bible Study on Acts 16:30-31 (NIV)
“He then brought them out and asked, ‘Sirs, what must I do to be saved?’ They replied, ‘Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved — you and your household.’”
1. Introduction — What Does “Believe in the Lord Jesus and Be Saved” Mean?
In Acts 16:30-31, the jailer’s question, “What must I do to be saved?” is the most important question any person can ask. The answer Paul and Silas give is simple yet profound: “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved — you and your household.”
This belief is more than mental agreement; it is trusting in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, surrendering to Him, and placing our full confidence in His death and resurrection for the forgiveness of our sins. Salvation is a gift of grace that brings not only personal transformation but also extends to influence our families and households.
2. Key Bible Verses Supporting Acts 16:30-31
John 6:29 — “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.”
The essential “work” we do for salvation is to believe in Jesus Christ.
Romans 10:13 — “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
Salvation is open to all who call upon Jesus in faith.
Mark 16:16 — “Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.”
Belief is the doorway to salvation; baptism follows as an outward sign of this inner faith.
John 1:12 — “Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.”
Believing in Jesus grants us adoption into God’s family.
3. Biblical Examples of Belief Leading to Salvation
The Philippian Jailer (Acts 16:30-34)
After hearing the message of salvation, the jailer and his household believed and were baptized, immediately rejoicing in God’s grace.
The Ethiopian Eunuch (Acts 8:26-39)
He believed after hearing the Gospel from Philip, confessed his faith, and was baptized. His belief brought instant joy and assurance.
Cornelius and His Household (Acts 10:44-48)
Cornelius’ faith in Jesus Christ led to the salvation and baptism of his entire household.
4. Practical Application: Living Out Acts 16:30-31
Ask the Question for Yourself:
Have you personally asked, “What must I do to be saved?” and responded in faith?
Believe and Confess:
Salvation starts by believing in Jesus and confessing Him as Lord of your life.
Lead Your Household:
Just as the jailer’s belief impacted his family, your faith can influence and bless your household. Share the Gospel with your family members and pray for their salvation.
Rejoice in Salvation Daily:
Like the jailer and his household, live in the joy and assurance of God’s saving grace.
5. Reflection Questions
1. Have you fully placed your trust in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior?
2. How does Acts 16:30-31 challenge or encourage your understanding of salvation?
3. In what ways can you share the message of salvation with your household and others?
4. What practical steps can you take to encourage faith in your family?
5. How can you live daily in gratitude for the simplicity and power of God’s saving grace?
6. Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for making salvation simple and accessible through faith in Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help me to believe fully in Jesus as my Savior and Lord. Let my faith overflow into my household and to those around me. Give me boldness to share this good news and to walk in the joy of Your salvation every day. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.