Acts 20:21
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 20:21
21 Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.
Chapter Context
Acts 20 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of holiness, obedience, fellowship. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Chronicles Christianity's spread across the Roman Empire despite official and unofficial opposition.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-38: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Acts and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Acts 20:21
21 Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.
Analysis
'Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.' The dual message - repentance and faith - summarizes gospel proclamation. Both Jews and Greeks needed identical response despite different backgrounds.
Historical Context
Repentance and faith together constitute conversion. Paul's universal message addressed all people with the same saving requirement.
Reflection
- How do repentance and faith relate to each other in conversion?
- Why did both Jews and Greeks need identical response to the gospel?
Word Studies
- Faith: πίστις (Pistis) G4102 - Faith, belief, trust
Cross-References
- Faith: Acts 26:18, Romans 10:9, 1 John 5:5
- Repentance: Acts 2:38, 11:18, 26:20, Luke 13:3, 24:47, 2 Corinthians 7:10
- Witness: Acts 20:24