Acts 3:20

that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that He may send Jesus, the Christ, who has been appointed for you.

Study Bible

and that He may send
This phrase indicates a divine action initiated by God. The Greek word for "send" is "apostellō," which means to send forth or dispatch. In the context of the New Testament, it often refers to a mission or purpose. Here, it signifies God's sovereign plan to send Jesus again, emphasizing the eschatological hope of Christ's return. This sending is not just a future event but a fulfillment of God's promises, underscoring the continuity of God's redemptive work throughout history.

Jesus
The name "Jesus" is derived from the Hebrew "Yeshua," meaning "Yahweh is salvation." This highlights the central role of Jesus as the Savior in Christian theology. In the context of Acts, Jesus is the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the embodiment of God's salvation plan. His name is not just a label but a declaration of His mission and identity as the one who brings salvation to humanity.

the Christ
"Christ" comes from the Greek "Christos," meaning "Anointed One," equivalent to the Hebrew "Messiah." This title affirms Jesus' role as the anointed King and Savior, fulfilling the messianic prophecies of the Old Testament. It signifies His divine authority and mission to redeem and restore. In the early church, proclaiming Jesus as the Christ was a bold declaration of faith, affirming His divine nature and messianic role.

who has been appointed
The phrase "has been appointed" comes from the Greek "procheirizō," meaning to designate or choose beforehand. This indicates God's sovereign choice and predestination of Jesus for His redemptive mission. It underscores the divine plan and purpose that has been in place since before the foundation of the world. This appointment is not arbitrary but part of God's eternal purpose to bring salvation through Christ.

for you
This phrase personalizes the message, indicating that the sending of Jesus is for the benefit of the audience, which includes both the immediate listeners in Acts and all believers. It emphasizes the personal nature of God's salvation plan, highlighting that Jesus' mission is not just a historical event but a present reality for each individual. This underscores the inclusive and personal nature of the Gospel, inviting all to partake in the salvation offered through Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Peter and John
Apostles of Jesus Christ who were instrumental in the early church and were speaking to the people in the temple area.

2. The Temple
The central place of worship for the Jews in Jerusalem, where Peter and John were preaching.

3. Jesus Christ
The Messiah, whose life, death, and resurrection are central to the Christian faith. He is the "Christ appointed for you" mentioned in the verse.

4. The Audience
The Jewish people gathered at the temple, including those who witnessed the healing of the lame man earlier in Acts 3.

5. The Lame Man
A man healed by Peter and John in the name of Jesus, which led to the gathering of the crowd and the subsequent preaching.

Teaching Points

Repentance Leads to Refreshing
True repentance is a turning away from sin and turning towards God, which brings spiritual renewal and refreshment.

The Presence of the Lord
Experiencing God's presence is essential for spiritual vitality and renewal. Seek His presence through prayer, worship, and the Word.

The Promise of Christ's Return
Live with the hope and expectation of Jesus' return, which should motivate holy living and evangelism.

The Role of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is the agent of refreshing and renewal in the believer's life. Depend on Him daily for strength and guidance.

Community and Witness
Like Peter and John, believers are called to be witnesses of Christ's power and message, leading others to experience times of refreshing.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of "times of refreshing" in Acts 3:20 relate to your personal spiritual journey?

2. In what ways can you actively seek the presence of the Lord in your daily life?

3. How does the promise of Jesus' return influence your priorities and decisions?

4. What role does the Holy Spirit play in bringing about spiritual renewal in your life?

5. How can you be a witness to others, like Peter and John, to lead them to experience the refreshing that comes from the Lord?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 2:38
Peter's call to repentance and baptism for the forgiveness of sins, which parallels the call for repentance in Acts 3:19-20.

Isaiah 61:1-3
The prophecy of the Messiah bringing comfort and restoration, which aligns with the "times of refreshing" mentioned in Acts 3:20.

Matthew 24:30-31
The promise of Jesus' return, which is echoed in the anticipation of Jesus being sent again as mentioned in Acts 3:20.

Revelation 21:4-5
The ultimate renewal and refreshing that will come with the new heaven and new earth, connecting to the "times of refreshing."