And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will.

ACTS 13:22KJV
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Acts 13:22 (KJV)

What does Acts 13:22 mean?

Acts 13:22 says that after God removed Saul as king, He chose David to be king instead, describing David as someone who matched God’s own heart and would do everything God wanted. This verse highlights David’s special relationship with God and his willingness to follow God’s will.

In this verse, Paul is speaking to a Jewish audience in a synagogue, recounting Israel’s history to show how God guided His people. Paul points out that God Himself testified about David, calling him “a man after mine own heart,” which means David’s character and desires aligned closely with what God valued. The verse sets up David as a key figure in God’s plan, leading toward the introduction of Jesus later in Paul’s message.

The Greek behind Acts 13:22

  • καρδία (kardia, “heart”): The Greek word for “heart” here refers to the center of a person’s character, intentions, and desires. Saying David is “after God’s own heart” means David’s inner life was in tune with God’s values, not just his outward actions.
  • θέλημα (thelēma, “will”): This word means God’s purpose or desire. The verse emphasizes that David would “fulfil all my will,” showing that David was chosen because he would carry out God’s intentions fully, not just partially.
  • ἀνήρ (anēr, “man”): The word used for “man” here is specific, pointing to David’s role as a representative human chosen for a unique purpose, not just any person.

Why Acts 13:22 matters

  • Acts 13:22 clarifies that David was chosen not just for his abilities or status, but because his heart and intentions matched what God wanted, correcting the idea that outward qualifications are what matter most.
  • The verse connects the story of David to the larger story of God’s faithfulness to Israel, which Paul is using to introduce Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s promises.
  • By quoting God’s own words about David, Paul shows that God’s choice of leaders is based on deeper qualities, preparing the listeners to understand why Jesus, a descendant of David, is central to God’s plan.

Where else these words appear

“removed” Greek G3179 · used in 5 verses

  • Luke 16:4 I am resolved what to do, that, when I am put out of the stewardship, they may receive me into their houses.
  • Acts 19:26 Moreover ye see and hear, that not alone at Ephesus, but almost throughout all Asia, this Paul hath persuaded and turned away much people, saying that they be no gods, which are made with hands:
  • 1 Corinthians 13:2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.

“Jesse” Greek G2421 · used in 5 verses

  • Matthew 1:5 And Salmon begat Booz of Rachab; and Booz begat Obed of Ruth; and Obed begat Jesse;
  • Matthew 1:6 And Jesse begat David the king; and David the king begat Solomon of her that had been the wife of Urias;
  • Luke 3:32 Which was the son of Jesse, which was the son of Obed, which was the son of Booz, which was the son of Salmon, which was the son of Naasson,

“David” Greek G1138 · used in 54 verses

  • Matthew 1:1 The book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.
  • Mark 10:48 And many charged him that he should hold his peace: but he cried the more a great deal, Thou Son of David, have mercy on me.
  • Acts 1:16 Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus.

“will” Greek G2307 · used in 60 verses

  • Matthew 6:10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
  • Acts 21:14 And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, The will of the Lord be done.
  • Colossians 1:9 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;