What is the meaning of Acts 20:21? Setting the Stage Paul is speaking to the Ephesian elders at Miletus (Acts 20:17–20). He reviews his ministry, saying he “did not shrink from declaring to you anything that was beneficial” (v. 20). This backdrop shows that what follows—“testifying to Jews and Greeks alike about repentance to God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ” (v. 21)—summarizes the heart of his message. His words echo the commission Jesus gave in Luke 24:46-47: “repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be proclaimed in His name to all nations.” Testifying Paul uses courtroom language: “testifying.” • He presents truth as a witness, not an inventor (Acts 1:8; 1 Corinthians 15:15). • The reliability of a witness rests on integrity; Paul reminds them of his “humility and with tears” (Acts 20:19) and a life “blameless” (1 Thessalonians 2:10). • Testifying demands urgency; Paul is “bound by the Spirit” to complete the task (Acts 20:22-24). To Jews and Greeks Alike The gospel erases ethnic boundaries (Romans 1:16; Galatians 3:28). • Paul starts with synagogue audiences (Acts 17:2) yet turns to Gentiles when opposed (Acts 18:6). • The phrase underscores that everyone stands on equal footing before God’s call (Ephesians 2:14-18). • Practical implication: no one is beyond the reach of the message; favoritism would betray it (James 2:1). Repentance to God Repentance is a wholehearted turn. • Direction: “to God,” not merely from bad habits (Isaiah 55:7; 1 Thessalonians 1:9). • Depth: more than remorse; it produces fruit (Luke 3:8; Acts 26:20). • Necessity: “God commands all people everywhere to repent” (Acts 17:30). • Result: forgiveness and refreshment (Acts 3:19; Proverbs 28:13). Faith in our Lord Jesus Christ Repentance and faith are two sides of one coin. • Object: “our Lord Jesus Christ,” affirming His lordship and saving role (John 20:31; Romans 10:9-10). • Content: trusting His substitutionary death and resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:3-4; 1 Peter 2:24). • Exclusivity: “there is salvation in no one else” (Acts 4:12). • Continuance: believers “live by faith” daily (Galatians 2:20; Hebrews 10:38). summary Acts 20:21 condenses Paul’s entire ministry into a single sentence: as a faithful witness he declares, to every person without distinction, the unchanging call to turn fully to God and to rely wholly on the saving Lord Jesus Christ. |
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