What is the meaning of Acts 3:20? That times of refreshing Acts 3:20 begins, “that times of refreshing may come…” • “Times” points to distinct seasons God has scheduled (Ecclesiastes 3:1; Acts 1:7). • “Refreshing” speaks of relief after oppression, like cool wind after blistering heat (Isaiah 32:2). The promise embraces: – Personal renewal at conversion—sins wiped away and consciences cleansed (Psalm 51:7-12; Acts 3:19). – Corporate revival among God’s people, first tasted at Pentecost (Acts 2:17-21) and ultimately climaxing in the coming kingdom (Isaiah 44:3; Hosea 6:2). • These seasons are literal; the same God who sent physical rain on Israel (Deuteronomy 11:14) promises spiritual rain on all who repent. May come from the presence of the Lord • Refreshing is not generated by human effort; it “comes from the presence of the Lord.” Moses understood that only God’s nearness makes a people distinct (Exodus 33:14-16). • In Scripture, God’s face equals His favor—fullness of joy is “in Your presence” (Psalm 16:11). • Every true awakening, whether in Jerusalem (Acts 2:33) or a modern congregation (Matthew 18:20), springs from God drawing near, not from programs or personalities. And that He may send Jesus • The same Jesus who ascended (Acts 1:11) will be sent again. Peter links Israel’s repentance with Messiah’s return, echoing Hosea 5:15 and Zechariah 12:10. • Christ’s second coming is as certain as His first (John 14:3; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17). God’s timetable is mercifully allowing more to repent (2 Peter 3:9). • The refreshing foretastes we experience now point forward to the ultimate restoration when Jesus reigns on earth (Revelation 19:11-16). The Christ • “Christ” is not a surname but the title of the promised Anointed One (Psalm 2:2; Matthew 16:16). • By using the title here, Peter reminds his hearers that Jesus fulfils every messianic prophecy (Luke 24:44; Acts 2:36). The One who will return is no new figure—He is the same crucified-risen Messiah. Who has been appointed for you • “Appointed” underscores divine sovereignty; Jesus’ mission was set “by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge” (Acts 2:23; 1 Peter 1:20). • “For you” affirms God’s gracious intent toward the very people who had rejected His Son (Acts 3:13-15, 25-26). Salvation is offered first to Israel, then to the nations (Romans 1:16; Ephesians 2:13). • The appointment remains personal: every hearer must respond in repentance and faith (John 3:16; Revelation 3:20). summary Acts 3:20 promises literal, God-given “times of refreshing” that flow directly from His presence and culminate in the return of Jesus. These seasons begin individually when sinners repent, continue corporately as God revives His people, and will reach their fullness when the appointed Christ is sent again to reign. The passage assures us that God’s plan is certain, His Messiah is ready, and His invitation is open to all who will turn to Him. |
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