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Acts 26:20
Verse
Context
Paul’s Testimony to Agrippa
19So then, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision.20First to those in Damascus and Jerusalem, then to everyone in the region of Judea, and then to the Gentiles, I declared that they should repent and turn to God, performing deeds worthy of their repentance. 21For this reason the Jews seized me in the temple courts and tried to kill me.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But showed first unto them of Damascus - He appears to have preached at Damascus, and in the neighboring parts of Arabia Deserta, for about three years; and afterwards he went up to Jerusalem. See Gal 1:17, Gal 1:18; and see the note on Act 9:23. That they should repent - Be deeply humbled for their past iniquities, and turn to God as their Judge and Savior, avoiding all idolatry and all sin; and thus do works meet for repentance; that is, show by their conduct that they had contrite hearts, and that they sincerely sought salvation from God alone. For the meaning of the word repentance, see the note on Mat 3:2.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
showed . . . to them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem--omitting Arabia; because, beginning with the Jews, his object was to mention first the places where his former hatred of the name of Christ was best known: the mention of the Gentiles, so unpalatable to his audience, is reserved to the last. repent and return to God, and do works meet for repentance--a brief description of conversion and its proper fruits, suggested, probably, by the Baptist's teaching (Luk 3:7-8).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But showed first unto them of Damascus,.... The Jews at Damascus to whom the apostle first preached; see Act 9:20. and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judea; observing the order of his mission, Act 26:17 though it was not until after he had been in Arabia, and had returned to Damascus, that he went to Jerusalem, and preached there; see Gal 1:17 compared with Act 9:28. and then to the Gentiles; as at Antioch in Pisidia, at Iconium, Derbe, and Lystra in Lycaonia; and at Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea in Macedonia; and in many places in Greece and Asia, as at Athens, Corinth, Ephesus, and others, as this history shows; and indeed he preached the Gospel from Jerusalem round about to Illyricum; that they should repent; that is, that they should repent of their sins; of sin in general, as it is committed against God, is a transgression of his law, and as it is in itself exceeding sinful, and in its effects dreadful; and of particular sins, such as men have been more especially addicted to, and of which the Jews and Gentiles, the apostle was sent unto, and to whom he preached, had been guilty: as the former of their will worship, and following the commandments and traditions of men, thereby making void the law of God; of their rejection and crucifixion of the Messiah; of their persecution of his apostles, ministers, and people; and of their trust in, and dependence upon, their own righteousness for justification: and the latter of their immoralities, superstition, and idolatry; and both not of the outward gross actions of life only, but of inward sins and lusts: and repentance of each of these lies in a different sentiment of them; in a detestation and abhorrence of them; in shame and confusion on account of them; in self-reflections upon them, and humiliation for them; in an ingenuous acknowledgment of them, and turning from them: and this is not a national repentance which the ministers of the Gospel are to show to men the necessity of; though this is not unworthy of them, when there is a call in Providence to it, and the state of things require it; much less a legal one, but an evangelical repentance; which has along with it faith in Christ Jesus, dealing with his blood and righteousness for the remission of their sins, and their justification before God; and which springs from, and is encouraged and heightened by, a sense of the love of God: and now this being a part of the Gospel ministry, does not suppose it to be in the power of men to repent of themselves, since no man, whilst he remains insensible of the evil nature of sin, and the hardness of his heart continues, which none but God can remove, can repent; and when he becomes truly sensible, he then prays to God to give him repentance, and to turn him: nor does it at all contradict its being a blessing of the covenant, a gift of Christ, and a grace of the Spirit of God; nor does it suggest, that the preaching of the word is sufficient of itself to produce it; the contrary of which the ministry of John the Baptist, of Christ, and of his apostles, declares; but the design of its being insisted on in the Gospel ministry, is to show that men are sinners, and in such a state and condition, that they are in need of repentance, and that without it they must perish; and the rather this is to be quietly inculcated, since true repentance is unto life, is the beginning and evidence of spiritual life, and issues in eternal life; and since there is a close connection between that and salvation, and that without it there is no salvation. It follows, and turn to God; this is to be understood, not of the first work of conversion, which is God's work, and not man's act, and in which man is passive, and which is before repentance, whereas this follows upon it; though the ministers of the word have a concern with this; to bring about this is the design and use of their ministrations; their business is to show the nature of conversion, what it is, and wherein it lies; to rectify mistakes about it, and to observe the necessity of it: but here is designed a turning to God, in consequence of the grace of first conversion; by an acknowledgment and confession of sin to God, by an application to him for pardoning grace and mercy, by a trust and dependence on him for righteousness, life, and salvation, and by obedience to his commands and ordinances. It intends a turning of the Jews from their evil principles and practices, from the traditions of their elders to the law of God, the Gospel of Christ, and the ordinances of it, and of the Gentiles, from their idols to the worship of the true and living God: and do works meet for repentance the same with "fruits meet for repentance", Mat 3:8. And such as are particularly mentioned in Co2 7:11 they are they which are the reverse of the evil actions they have been guilty of, and which are properly good works. And they are they which are done according to the will of God declared in his word, this is a requisite of a good work; what is not according to the word of God is not a good work, nor can it be any evidence of repentance; and they are also such as spring from love to God, for if they are done through fear of punishment, or for sinister and selfish ends, they show repentance to be a mere legal one: and they are such as are done in faith, in the name and strength of Christ, and to the glory of God by him. All external good works are designed, which show that the inward repentance professed, and that the outward change made in religion and worship, are genuine and sincere: the doctrines of internal repentance and outward worship, and all good works, are parts of the Gospel ministry, and to be insisted on in their proper places.
Acts 26:20
Paul’s Testimony to Agrippa
19So then, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision.20First to those in Damascus and Jerusalem, then to everyone in the region of Judea, and then to the Gentiles, I declared that they should repent and turn to God, performing deeds worthy of their repentance. 21For this reason the Jews seized me in the temple courts and tried to kill me.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Christ—the Way God Makes Man Righteous) 7. Conviction Leads to Repentance
By Denny Kenaston2.4K1:04:21ConvictionMAT 6:33ACT 2:38ACT 26:20EPH 5:6COL 3:6In this sermon, Brother Denny emphasizes the importance of both reform and regeneration in the life of a believer. He explains that reform without regeneration leads to failure and frustration, as it is only through the work of God that true change can occur. The purpose of the law is to bring man to the end of himself and his self-righteousness, leading him to recognize his need for God. Repentance is a crucial step in this process, and Brother Denny encourages the audience to understand its significance and embrace a life of walking with God.
Repentance
By Richard Owen Roberts1.5K58:52ACT 26:20This sermon emphasizes the essential nature of repentance in the Christian life, highlighting the misconception that repentance is unnecessary or solely a work. It delves into the importance of true repentance, the dangers of false repentance, and the need for repentance to be accompanied by faith. The sermon draws from various biblical examples and teachings to underscore the significance of genuine, ongoing repentance that involves turning from sin and dead works, being open and positive, and ultimately centered on Christ.
Real Repentance
By Robert H. Boll0ISA 55:6LUK 19:9ACT 2:38ACT 3:19ACT 17:30ACT 26:202PE 3:9Robert H. Boll emphasizes the consistent call to repentance throughout the Bible, from the Old Testament prophets to the teachings of Jesus, the apostles, and even in the book of Revelation. Repentance is crucial for salvation, as highlighted by the urgency and importance placed on it in God's Word. True repentance involves a sincere turning from sin to God, marked by humility, honesty, and a willingness to make amends. It is a necessary step towards receiving God's mercy, forgiveness, and the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Passion for Holiness
By Glenn Meldrum0PSA 84:5ACT 26:20EPH 5:1PHP 3:20HEB 10:101JN 3:3REV 15:4Glenn Meldrum preaches about the significance of holiness in experiencing genuine revival. He emphasizes that the holiness of God, infinitely pure and separate, is beyond human comprehension but essential for believers to reflect. Holiness involves consecration to God, separation from sin, and intimate fellowship with the Holy One. The pursuit of holiness through sanctification is both a divine act and a continuous lifestyle of repentance and growth in moral purity. Meldrum highlights the necessity of holiness for every citizen of Christ's kingdom, as it is the highway to revival and a transformed life.
Nationale Inkeer (Dutch)
By Anton Bosch02CH 7:14ISA 55:7MAT 3:8ACT 26:20ROM 9:25HEB 11:13Anton Bosch preaches about the concept of national repentance, emphasizing that repentance is a personal action that requires a change in behavior, not just words. He highlights that repentance is individual and cannot be done on behalf of others, including nations. The sermon underscores that God deals with individuals, not nations, and that salvation is a personal decision. Bosch challenges the idea of praying for national repentance and encourages focusing on praying for individuals to come to faith in Jesus Christ.
Lecture Xii. - How to Preach the Gospel.
By Charles Finney0Preaching The GospelWinning SoulsPRO 11:30ISA 55:6DAN 12:3MAT 28:19ACT 26:20ROM 10:141CO 4:152TI 4:2JAS 5:191PE 3:15Charles Finney emphasizes the responsibility of individuals in preaching the Gospel and winning souls, asserting that conversion is a collaborative effort between God, truth, and man. He argues that effective preaching must be practical, direct, and tailored to the needs of the congregation, while also addressing the importance of making the Gospel relatable and urgent. Finney highlights the necessity for ministers to engage with their audience, anticipate objections, and ensure that their preaching is both doctrinal and applicable to everyday life. He warns against the dangers of controversy and the need for a balanced approach to doctrine, urging preachers to focus on the present obligation of repentance. Ultimately, he calls for a revival of passionate, heartfelt preaching that aims to convert sinners and promote holiness.
National Repentance
By Anton Bosch02CH 7:14ISA 55:7MAT 3:8ACT 26:20ROM 11:26HEB 11:13Anton Bosch challenges the concept of 'national repentance' by emphasizing that repentance is an action that requires a change in behavior, not just words. He highlights that repentance is personal and cannot be done on behalf of others, including nations, as each individual must take responsibility for their own sins. Bosch clarifies that God deals with individuals, not nations, and that Jesus died for each person personally, not for specific countries. He stresses the importance of praying for individuals to come to repentance and belief in Jesus, rather than using vague prayers for nations.
The Obedience of Faith
By Daniel Steele0JHN 7:38JHN 14:15ACT 26:20ROM 1:5GAL 2:20EPH 3:161TH 5:23HEB 5:9JAS 2:261JN 5:3Daniel Steele preaches on the importance of obedience of faith in the Epistle to the Romans, emphasizing that true obedience springs from faith in Jesus Christ. He explains that repentance toward God must precede faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, leading to sanctification before death and preservation in a state of holiness in this life. Steele highlights the distinction between justification by atoning blood and sanctification by the Holy Spirit, stressing the need for believers to maintain consecration and faith in God's promises for fullness of love and victory over sin.
The Doctrine of Repentance
By Thomas Watson0PSA 4:2PRO 19:15ISA 33:14EZK 36:31ZEP 3:5LUK 13:5ACT 26:20HEB 3:13REV 16:10Thomas Watson preaches on the Doctrine of Repentance, emphasizing the essential nature of repentance as a grace of God's Spirit that humbles and reforms sinners. He highlights the six special ingredients of repentance, the importance of true loathing of sin, the dangers of counterfeit repentance, the consequences of persisting in sin, and the necessity of developing a holy antipathy against sin. Watson also discusses the power of tears in repentance, the dwelling places of Satan, the comparison of sin to affliction, the loss of shame in sinners, and the destructive nature of sloth as the cancer of the soul.
The Fruit of Forgiveness
By Elisabeth Elliot0ISA 27:9MAT 3:8LUK 3:8ACT 26:20JAS 2:17Elisabeth Elliot emphasizes the daily forgiveness we receive from God for various sins, highlighting the contrast between the magnitude of grace and the commonality of forgiveness. She references Isaiah 27:9, illustrating the need for tangible actions to demonstrate repentance and forsaking of specific sins, akin to smashing stone altars as a symbol of genuine repentance and the fruit of forgiveness.
(Through the Needle's Eye) 2 - Jesus Loves a Rich, Young Ruler, Part 1
By David Servant0MAT 4:17MAT 5:20MAT 16:27MRK 8:34LUK 5:32ACT 26:20David Servant preaches about the importance of repentance, obedience, and true faith in Jesus for salvation, emphasizing that grace is conditional and requires a response from believers. He highlights the need for sincere repentance, obedience to God's commandments, and a genuine faith that results in a transformed life. Through various biblical examples and teachings, he challenges the common misconceptions about salvation by grace alone and stresses the significance of aligning our lives with the teachings of Jesus to inherit eternal life.
The Immoral "Christian"
By David Servant0MAT 5:27LUK 3:8ACT 26:20ROM 12:2ROM 13:141CO 6:111CO 10:131CO 13:3EPH 5:3EPH 5:51JN 3:9David Servant delivers a powerful sermon contrasting the hidden sins of a 'Peeping Tom' with the hypocritical behavior of a supposed follower of Christ who indulges in sexually-explicit content. Through vivid scenarios, he emphasizes the importance of true repentance, genuine transformation, and consistent holiness in the life of a believer. Drawing from Ephesians and Matthew, he highlights the severe consequences of immorality and impurity, stressing that those who practice such sins will not inherit the kingdom of God. Servant exposes the dangers of hypocrisy, selfish motives, and false conversions, urging Christians to pursue genuine purity in thought, word, and deed.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But showed first unto them of Damascus - He appears to have preached at Damascus, and in the neighboring parts of Arabia Deserta, for about three years; and afterwards he went up to Jerusalem. See Gal 1:17, Gal 1:18; and see the note on Act 9:23. That they should repent - Be deeply humbled for their past iniquities, and turn to God as their Judge and Savior, avoiding all idolatry and all sin; and thus do works meet for repentance; that is, show by their conduct that they had contrite hearts, and that they sincerely sought salvation from God alone. For the meaning of the word repentance, see the note on Mat 3:2.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
showed . . . to them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem--omitting Arabia; because, beginning with the Jews, his object was to mention first the places where his former hatred of the name of Christ was best known: the mention of the Gentiles, so unpalatable to his audience, is reserved to the last. repent and return to God, and do works meet for repentance--a brief description of conversion and its proper fruits, suggested, probably, by the Baptist's teaching (Luk 3:7-8).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But showed first unto them of Damascus,.... The Jews at Damascus to whom the apostle first preached; see Act 9:20. and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judea; observing the order of his mission, Act 26:17 though it was not until after he had been in Arabia, and had returned to Damascus, that he went to Jerusalem, and preached there; see Gal 1:17 compared with Act 9:28. and then to the Gentiles; as at Antioch in Pisidia, at Iconium, Derbe, and Lystra in Lycaonia; and at Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea in Macedonia; and in many places in Greece and Asia, as at Athens, Corinth, Ephesus, and others, as this history shows; and indeed he preached the Gospel from Jerusalem round about to Illyricum; that they should repent; that is, that they should repent of their sins; of sin in general, as it is committed against God, is a transgression of his law, and as it is in itself exceeding sinful, and in its effects dreadful; and of particular sins, such as men have been more especially addicted to, and of which the Jews and Gentiles, the apostle was sent unto, and to whom he preached, had been guilty: as the former of their will worship, and following the commandments and traditions of men, thereby making void the law of God; of their rejection and crucifixion of the Messiah; of their persecution of his apostles, ministers, and people; and of their trust in, and dependence upon, their own righteousness for justification: and the latter of their immoralities, superstition, and idolatry; and both not of the outward gross actions of life only, but of inward sins and lusts: and repentance of each of these lies in a different sentiment of them; in a detestation and abhorrence of them; in shame and confusion on account of them; in self-reflections upon them, and humiliation for them; in an ingenuous acknowledgment of them, and turning from them: and this is not a national repentance which the ministers of the Gospel are to show to men the necessity of; though this is not unworthy of them, when there is a call in Providence to it, and the state of things require it; much less a legal one, but an evangelical repentance; which has along with it faith in Christ Jesus, dealing with his blood and righteousness for the remission of their sins, and their justification before God; and which springs from, and is encouraged and heightened by, a sense of the love of God: and now this being a part of the Gospel ministry, does not suppose it to be in the power of men to repent of themselves, since no man, whilst he remains insensible of the evil nature of sin, and the hardness of his heart continues, which none but God can remove, can repent; and when he becomes truly sensible, he then prays to God to give him repentance, and to turn him: nor does it at all contradict its being a blessing of the covenant, a gift of Christ, and a grace of the Spirit of God; nor does it suggest, that the preaching of the word is sufficient of itself to produce it; the contrary of which the ministry of John the Baptist, of Christ, and of his apostles, declares; but the design of its being insisted on in the Gospel ministry, is to show that men are sinners, and in such a state and condition, that they are in need of repentance, and that without it they must perish; and the rather this is to be quietly inculcated, since true repentance is unto life, is the beginning and evidence of spiritual life, and issues in eternal life; and since there is a close connection between that and salvation, and that without it there is no salvation. It follows, and turn to God; this is to be understood, not of the first work of conversion, which is God's work, and not man's act, and in which man is passive, and which is before repentance, whereas this follows upon it; though the ministers of the word have a concern with this; to bring about this is the design and use of their ministrations; their business is to show the nature of conversion, what it is, and wherein it lies; to rectify mistakes about it, and to observe the necessity of it: but here is designed a turning to God, in consequence of the grace of first conversion; by an acknowledgment and confession of sin to God, by an application to him for pardoning grace and mercy, by a trust and dependence on him for righteousness, life, and salvation, and by obedience to his commands and ordinances. It intends a turning of the Jews from their evil principles and practices, from the traditions of their elders to the law of God, the Gospel of Christ, and the ordinances of it, and of the Gentiles, from their idols to the worship of the true and living God: and do works meet for repentance the same with "fruits meet for repentance", Mat 3:8. And such as are particularly mentioned in Co2 7:11 they are they which are the reverse of the evil actions they have been guilty of, and which are properly good works. And they are they which are done according to the will of God declared in his word, this is a requisite of a good work; what is not according to the word of God is not a good work, nor can it be any evidence of repentance; and they are also such as spring from love to God, for if they are done through fear of punishment, or for sinister and selfish ends, they show repentance to be a mere legal one: and they are such as are done in faith, in the name and strength of Christ, and to the glory of God by him. All external good works are designed, which show that the inward repentance professed, and that the outward change made in religion and worship, are genuine and sincere: the doctrines of internal repentance and outward worship, and all good works, are parts of the Gospel ministry, and to be insisted on in their proper places.