How does Acts 20:21 emphasize the importance of repentance and faith in Jesus? Setting the Scene Acts 20 records Paul’s farewell to the Ephesian elders. In verse 21 he summarizes his entire ministry: “testifying to both Jews and Greeks about repentance toward God and faith in our Lord Jesus.” This single sentence distills the gospel’s non-negotiables—repentance and faith—in one breath. Repentance Toward God • Repentance (Greek metanoia) means a change of mind that leads to a change of direction. • It is God-ward: turning from sin and self-rule to acknowledge God’s rightful authority. • Scripture echoes the call: – “Repent and believe the gospel.” (Mark 1:15) – “Repentance for forgiveness of sins would be proclaimed in His name to all nations.” (Luke 24:47) • Repentance is not optional; it is God’s command to everyone everywhere (Acts 17:30). • Far from mere regret, it produces fruit in keeping with a transformed heart (Matthew 3:8). Faith in Our Lord Jesus • Faith (Greek pistis) is personal reliance on Jesus—His person, work, and promises. • It is Christ-ward: trusting that His death and resurrection fully satisfy God’s justice. • Supporting texts: – “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved.” (Acts 16:31) – “You are saved by grace through faith… not from yourselves; it is the gift of God.” (Ephesians 2:8-9) • Faith rests on facts revealed in Scripture, not feelings or works (Romans 10:9-10). Why Both Together Matter • Two sides of one coin—repentance turns from sin, faith turns to Christ. • Repentance without faith leaves a person self-reforming but still lost. • Faith without repentance reduces the gospel to mere assent, lacking surrender. • Hebrews 6:1 calls these the “foundation,” showing believers never outgrow their importance. Universal Scope: Jews and Greeks • Paul’s phrase “both Jews and Greeks” underscores that the same gospel applies to every ethnicity and background. • No separate tracks—everyone meets the same standard: repent and believe (Romans 3:22-23). Practical Takeaways • Examine: Have I truly turned to God, abandoning self-rule? • Trust: Rest wholly in Jesus’ finished work, not in good intentions or rituals. • Continue: Repentance and faith initiate salvation and also define daily Christian living (Colossians 2:6). • Share: When presenting the gospel, keep both elements clear; they are the heart of the message (Acts 2:38). Acts 20:21 anchors the believer’s life and witness: genuine turning to God paired with wholehearted trust in Jesus—God’s unaltered pathway to salvation. |
    |