Acts 3:19
Verse
Context
Peter Speaks in Solomon’s Colonnade
18But in this way God has fulfilled what He foretold through all the prophets, saying that His Christ would suffer.19Repent, then, and turn back, so that your sins may be wiped away,20that 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.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Repent ye therefore - Now that ye are convinced that this was the Messiah, let your minds be changed, and your hearts become contrite for the sins you have committed. And be converted - ΕπιϚρεψατε, Turn to God through this Christ, deeply deploring your transgressions, and believing on his name; that your sins may be blotted out, which are not only recorded against you, but for which you are condemned by the justice of God; and the punishment due to them must be executed upon you, unless prevented by your repentance, and turning to him whom ye have pierced. The blotting out of sins may refer to the ceremony of the waters of jealousy, where the curse that was written in the book was to be blotted out with the bitter water. See the note on Num 5:23. Their sins were written down against them, and cried aloud for punishment; for they themselves had said, His blood be upon us, and upon our children, Mat 27:25; and unless they took refuge in this sacrificial blood, and got their sins blotted out by it, they could not be saved. When the times of refreshing shall come - Dr. Lightfoot contends, and so ought all, that ὁπως αν ελθωσι καιροι αναψυξεως, should be translated, That the times of refreshing May come. Αναψυξις, signifies a breathing time, or respite, and may be here applied to the space that elapsed from this time till the destruction of Jerusalem by the Romans. This was a time of respite, which God gave them to repent of their sins, and be converted to himself. Taking the word in the sense of refreshment in general, it may mean the whole reign of the kingdom of grace, and the blessings which God gives here below to all genuine believers, peace, love, joy, and communion with himself. See on Act 3:21 (note).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
when the times of refreshing shall come--rather, "in order that the times of refreshing may come"; that long period of repose, prosperity and joy, which all the prophets hold forth to the distracted Church and this miserable world, as eventually to come, and which is here, as in all the prophets, made to turn upon the national conversion of Israel.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Repent ye therefore,.... The Ethiopic version adds, "and be baptized"; see Gill on Act 2:38, and be converted. The apostle's sense is, repent of the sin of crucifying Christ, which is what he had been charging them with, and turn unto him, and acknowledge him as the Messiah; receive his doctrines, and submit to his ordinances; externally reform in life and conversation, and bring forth fruits meet for repentance, such as will show it to be true and genuine: that your sins may be blotted out; or forgiven, see Psa 51:9. Not that repentance and reformation procure the pardon of sin, or are the causes of it, for forgiveness is entirely owing to the free grace of God, and blood of Christ; but inasmuch as that is only manifested and applied to repenting and converted sinners; and who are encouraged to repent, and turn to the Lord from the promise of pardon; it is incumbent on them, and is their interest so to do, that they may have a discovery of the remission of their sins by the blood of Christ. Though no other repentance and conversion may be here meant than an external one; and the blotting out of sin, and forgiveness of it, may intend no other than the removing a present calamity, or the averting a threatened judgment, or the deliverance of persons from national ruin, Exo 32:32. These Jews had crucified the Lord of glory, and for this sin were threatened with miserable destruction; the apostle therefore exhorteth them to repentance for it, and to a conversion to the Messiah, that so when ruin should come upon their nation, they might be delivered from the general calamity; when it would be terrible times to the unbelieving and impenitent Jews, but times of refreshment, ease, peace, and rest from persecution, to the believers, as is next expressed. When the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; or "that the times of refreshing may come", as the Syriac version; either seasons of spiritual refreshment, joy, and peace, through the great and precious promises of the Gospel, and by the application of the blood and righteousness of Christ, to such penitent and converted sinners; which refreshment and comfort come from the Lord, and are accompanied with his gracious presence: or else seasons of rest, and deliverance from the violent heat of persecution; which was the case of the saints at the destruction of Jerusalem; they were not only saved from that ruin, but delivered from the wrath of their most implacable enemies. The Ethiopic version renders it, "and the day of mercy shall come from the presence of the Lord", repenting sinners find mercy; and a discovery of pardon is a time of mercy; and when God grants this, he affords his presence. The Jews call the world to come a time of refreshment; and say (b), "better is one hour , "of refreshment", in the world to come, than the whole life of this world.'' (b) Pirke Abot, c. 4. sect. 17.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:19-21 The message of Good News offers refreshment (see Matt 11:28-29). The second coming of Christ will be one of those times of refreshment from God, when he will again send . . . Jesus to his people. 3:19 The Good News of forgiveness is more fully explained elsewhere (see 5:30-32; 10:36-43; 13:26-38; Luke 24:25-27, 45-47).
Acts 3:19
Peter Speaks in Solomon’s Colonnade
18But in this way God has fulfilled what He foretold through all the prophets, saying that His Christ would suffer.19Repent, then, and turn back, so that your sins may be wiped away,20that 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.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Great Commission
By John Stott11K38:02Great CommissionMAT 10:9LUK 24:44ACT 2:38ACT 3:19ACT 17:30In this sermon, the speaker discusses the Great Commission as recorded by Matthew, Luke, and John. The five aspects of the Great Commission, as summarized by Luke, are: proclamation of forgiveness of sins, based on Christ's saving name, conditioned on repentance, to all nations, and in the power of the Holy Spirit. The speaker acknowledges that the Church has at times failed in these aspects, distorting the message, forgetting Christ's name, muting the call to repentance, neglecting the unevangelized nations, and lacking spiritual equipment. However, the speaker emphasizes that there is still time for repentance and making amends, and with the increasing population and modern means of communication, the goal of world evangelization remains possible. The sermon concludes by highlighting the importance of the promise of the Holy Spirit's power and the command to wait for it before embarking on the Great Commission.
(Messages) Repentance
By Basilea Schlink7.5K51:16RepentancePSA 51:17MAT 3:2ACT 3:192CO 7:10JAS 5:20REV 2:4REV 3:5During World War II, many German people experienced suffering and developed a hunger for the word of God. The speaker received numerous requests for Bible studies and lectures, which brought joy and gratitude. However, a moment of revelation unsettled the speaker, leading them to realize the importance of repentance. The speaker emphasizes that repentance is the gateway to heaven and the heart of the Father, as preached by John the Baptist and Jesus himself. The speaker highlights the human tendency to be apathetic and indifferent towards our own sins, often blaming others or even God. They stress the need to recognize our lack of repentance and turn to God in faith, as He is able to create repentance in our hearts through His Holy Spirit. Jesus' sacrifice on the cross not only destroyed Satan's power but also the hardness of our hearts, enabling us to weep over our sins and the suffering we have caused. The call to repentance is both a command and a promise.
The Role of Prayer in Spiritual Awakening
By J. Edwin Orr6.5K25:54Spiritual Awakening2CH 7:14PRO 28:13MAT 10:32ACT 3:192CO 7:1JAS 4:71JN 1:9In this sermon, the pastor emphasizes four important steps for spiritual growth. First, he urges the audience to put away any doubtful habits from their lives. Second, he emphasizes the importance of obeying the promptings of the Holy Spirit. Third, he encourages the audience to publicly confess their faith in Christ. Finally, he highlights the need for explicit agreement and visible union among God's people in extraordinary prayer for revival and the extension of Christ's kingdom. The sermon also shares the story of Evan Roberts, a young man who sparked a revival in Lochor, Wales, through his preaching and emphasis on confession of sin and making things right with others.
(Covenant Word Ministries) Servant of Sin
By Keith Daniel5.1K1:22:58BondageMAT 28:19MRK 16:15ACT 3:19ACT 17:302CO 3:2HEB 2:9In this sermon, the preacher recounts a rainy day when he was surprised to find a church full of people despite the bad weather. As he began to preach, a drunk man desperately tried to enter the church, injuring himself in the process. The preacher's companion warned him not to get out of the car, fearing for his safety. Later, the preacher arrived at another location where a young lady informed him that the person he was looking for had already left and caused damage before leaving. The sermon emphasizes the importance of reaching out to souls and the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ.
A Place to Hide
By Jim Cymbala5.0K19:34The Power of PrayerChristian LifeGod's ProtectionPSA 36:7PSA 46:1PSA 62:8PSA 91:1ISA 41:10MAT 11:28LUK 13:34JHN 14:27ACT 3:19JAS 2:19Jim Cymbala emphasizes the priceless nature of God's unfailing love and the refuge it provides, likening God to a protective bird under whose wings we can find safety. He explains that true trust in God is demonstrated through prayer and running to Him in times of need, highlighting that many people fail to experience this refuge due to a lack of genuine faith. Cymbala encourages believers to seek God's presence, especially during times of trouble, as it is there that they can find peace, direction, and healing. He reminds the congregation that God invites everyone to come and hide under His wings, offering protection from life's challenges and the enemy's accusations. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper reliance on God through prayer and a recognition of His constant love and care.
Americas Only Hope
By Keith Daniel5.0K1:19:36Revival Praying2CH 7:14MAT 18:3JHN 3:3JHN 3:7ACT 3:19ACT 17:301PE 1:23In this sermon, the preacher expresses deep concern and sorrow for the state of the country and the erosion of freedom of speech. He recounts a powerful experience where he witnessed a building burning down after praying for it to happen. The preacher also shares his burden for the land and his own family, acknowledging the absence of a father figure in their lives. He describes a disturbing scene in a large church where evil music was playing and people were dancing, prompting him to pray for God to intervene. The sermon emphasizes the need for self-respect and the consequences of disregarding it.
Bless Me Father
By Alan Redpath5.0K48:02BlessingGEN 25:28PSA 51:5MAT 6:33JHN 15:5ACT 3:19ROM 8:321PE 5:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of seeking spiritual recovery and not making false steps in life. He uses the story of Esau from the Bible as an example of someone who despised his birthright and later regretted it. The preacher warns that there are irrevocable consequences for every false step and that opportunities and youth cannot be recovered. He encourages the audience to prioritize the will of God over temporary desires and to live by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.
Losing the Anointing - Part 1 (High Quality)
By David Wilkerson4.6K29:15PSA 32:5ISA 61:1JER 29:13MAT 16:24LUK 9:23ACT 3:192CO 3:17PHP 3:10JAS 4:81JN 1:9This sermon emphasizes the freedom from guilt of the past through surrendering to God, trading shackles for a glorious song. It highlights the importance of seeking the anointing of God, the cost of maintaining it, and the need for a deep, personal relationship with God to experience His transformative power.
Grieving the Holy Spirit
By C.H. Spurgeon4.5K42:57JDG 16:20PSA 119:105ISA 66:8HOS 4:17MAL 3:10MRK 16:16ACT 3:19In this sermon, the speaker discusses the experience of feeling distant from God and lacking spiritual understanding, comfort, and power. He emphasizes the need for individuals and churches to humble themselves before God and seek His presence and revival. The speaker acknowledges the current state of many churches, expressing a desire to see a greater outpouring of God's grace and the salvation of many souls. He encourages believers to recognize their own weaknesses and the patience of God in teaching them, comparing it to Jesus becoming a baby and the Holy Spirit becoming a teacher of babes.
Losing the Anointing - Part 2 (High Quality)
By David Wilkerson3.9K29:182CH 7:14NEH 1:4PSA 27:8ISA 55:6DAN 10:12MAT 7:7ACT 3:19HEB 11:6JAS 4:8REV 3:20This sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking a fresh anointing from God, recounting personal experiences of revival and the need for a renewed passion for ministry. The speaker shares about the challenges faced in ministry, the call to intimacy with Christ, and the necessity of perseverance and seeking God's face for a new anointing to fulfill one's purpose.
Dead Words
By A.W. Tozer3.6K47:26Dead WordsEXO 19:9PSA 51:7MAT 3:2JHN 3:16ACT 3:19ROM 10:91JN 1:9In this sermon, the preacher begins by expressing his admiration for a group of individuals, stating that he does not aspire to be with anyone better. He then shares a verse from the book of Exodus, where Moses tells God that he will come to the cloud so that the people may hear him speak and believe. The preacher then transitions to a personal story about a man named Charlie who was attacked by robbers. In this dire situation, the preacher claims that God whispered to Charlie to tell the robbers that he cannot open the safe, leading to their demise. The preacher concludes by questioning why Christians are not willing to face difficulties and challenges like the Marines, and instead seek comfort and safety.
The Power of the Holy Spirit
By J. Edwin Orr3.2K21:34Power of the Holy SpiritPSA 80:18PSA 85:6PSA 139:23ZEC 4:6MAT 9:38ACT 3:19ACT 13:2In this sermon, the preacher uses various illustrations to convey his message. He starts by talking about a farmer and his tractor, highlighting the importance of having the right tools and being well-organized. He then shares the story of a migrant worker who approaches the bus instead of asking the workers for a job, emphasizing the need to go directly to the source. The preacher also discusses the concept of the Trinity, explaining that while there is no perfect analogy, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are one essence. Finally, he talks about the disciples' expectation of the restoration of the kingdom and Jesus' response, emphasizing the importance of receiving power from the Holy Spirit to fulfill the great commission.
(Basics) 7. Repentance
By Zac Poonen3.1K12:51MAT 6:24MRK 8:34LUK 14:33ACT 3:19ROM 2:42CO 7:101TH 1:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the difficulty people have in asking for forgiveness due to their pride. He explains that in order to receive forgiveness from God, one must turn towards Him and away from their old way of life. Repentance is described as a simple act of turning around, just like in a military parade. The speaker also highlights the importance of genuine repentance, which is demonstrated through actions and a willingness to make amends with others. The sermon concludes by reminding listeners that forgiveness is not cheap, as it required the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
(Faith Community Chapel) 10/29
By Keith Daniel3.1K1:26:03SinJHN 8:34ACT 3:19ACT 17:30ROM 6:162CO 5:172TI 3:161PE 2:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the concept of being enslaved to sin. He explains that it is not just about committing isolated sins, but rather living a life of sin. The preacher highlights the tragic reality of being a servant of sin and the consequences it brings. He emphasizes the importance of repentance and the need for true freedom that can only come from Jesus Christ. The sermon also touches on the sinful nature of children and the transformative power of Christ in their lives.
We Have Been Taught Not to Discern - Part 1
By Andrew Strom3.1K10:002CH 7:14PSA 85:6ISA 43:19JOL 2:12HAB 3:2MAT 5:13ACT 3:19EPH 5:14JAS 4:8REV 2:5The sermon emphasizes the importance of recognizing and seizing the opportunity for revival, drawing parallels between the historical revivals in Wales and America. It warns about the potential consequences of missing the wave of revival and highlights the need for spiritual awakening and restoration in the nation. The speaker shares insights on the cyclical nature of revivals and the critical role of prayer and seeking God's movement in bringing about spiritual renewal.
(Basics) 8. Faith
By Zac Poonen3.0K13:06MAT 9:27MRK 10:52MRK 11:22JHN 3:16ACT 3:19ROM 3:23EPH 1:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of faith in receiving God's blessings. He explains that God is not concerned with the specific words or formula we use in prayer, but rather with the sincerity and longing of our hearts. The preacher cites John 6:37, where Jesus promises to never reject those who come to Him. He also highlights the story of the blind men in Matthew 9, who received their sight because of their bold confession of faith in Jesus' ability to heal them. The key message is that when we choose to believe and have faith, we can receive the blessings and salvation that God desires to give us.
What Does It Really Mean to Be Born Again?
By J. Edwin Orr2.8K59:31Born AgainMAT 4:17MAT 28:19LUK 15:6ACT 3:19In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding the first word of the gospel. He explains that proclaiming belief in Christ is not enough; it requires a complete change in thinking, behavior, and feeling. The preacher encourages the audience to seek guidance and prayer if they are unsure about this change. He references three parables in Luke 15, known as the Gospel parables, to illustrate the significance of repentance and the joy it brings in heaven. The sermon concludes with a call to change one's attitude and put trust in the Lord Jesus Christ.
Helps in Soul-Winning
By Gerhard Du Toit2.6K1:04:21Soul WinningMIC 7:18MAT 11:28LUK 15:7JHN 1:9JHN 6:37ACT 3:19ROM 3:23In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the condition of man as lost in order to effectively share the gospel. He mentions conducting seminars on soul-winning and counseling pastors for salvation. The speaker highlights the power of the Word of God in convicting individuals of sin and shares a personal experience with the president of South Africa who was saved. He also provides practical advice for soul-winners, emphasizing the need for reliance on God and addressing difficulties that may arise during counseling. The sermon references the Bible verse Hebrews 4:12 to emphasize the power of the Word of God.
Holines, Brokeness, Repentance, Grace
By James MacDonald2.6K1:02:53MAT 3:2MRK 6:12LUK 3:8ACT 3:19ACT 17:30REV 2:16REV 3:19In this sermon, the pastor emphasizes the importance of repentance and conversion in order to experience times of refreshing from the presence of the Lord. He highlights the need for genuine sorrow and a change of mind and heart that leads to a change in behavior. The pastor shares a personal dream where he experienced deep joy and uses it as a motivation to preach about repentance. He also references the story of the prodigal son to illustrate the process of repentance and the transformation it brings.
Seeking God for Power - Coming to an End of Ourselves
By Zac Poonen2.6K1:01:11PowerISA 40:29HOS 10:12LUK 18:2LUK 18:8JHN 7:38ACT 3:19REV 2:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the idea of being filled by God. He uses the analogy of a boat being filled with fish and a net being filled with fish to illustrate this concept. The preacher also highlights the importance of waiting upon the Lord and exchanging our own human strength for God's strength. He encourages those who are tired and worn out to come to Jesus and find renewal. The sermon concludes with the message that when we come to the end of ourselves and give up all hope, that is when the Lord can fill our lives with abundance.
"The Lamb of God" Part 1
By Joshua Daniel2.6K27:35GEN 22:7PSA 51:10ISA 1:18MAT 11:28JHN 1:29ACT 3:19ROM 6:231PE 2:241JN 1:9REV 3:20This sermon by Joshua Daniel emphasizes the significance of Jesus Christ as the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world. It addresses the prevalence of sin in society, the need for repentance, and the transformative power of surrendering to Jesus. The message highlights the importance of recognizing and confessing sin, the impact of societal moral decay, and the call to turn to Jesus for deliverance and restoration.
The Full Resurrection Power of Christ
By Keith Daniel2.4K1:07:52Resurrection PowerGratitudeResurrection LifePSA 100:4JHN 3:16ACT 3:19ROM 10:92CO 5:17EPH 5:20PHP 4:6COL 3:171TH 5:16HEB 13:15Keith Daniel emphasizes the significance of gratitude and the full resurrection power of Christ in the lives of believers. He encourages the congregation to maintain their high standards of faith and to continually offer praise to God, which empowers them and strengthens their faith. Daniel shares personal anecdotes and testimonies to illustrate the transformative power of worship and the necessity of repentance and belief in the risen Christ for salvation. He concludes by urging everyone to commit their lives to God and to embrace a lifestyle of thanksgiving, which leads to spiritual strength and joy.
Repentance From Root of Sin
By Zac Poonen2.4K1:20:03RepentanceMAT 6:33LUK 3:1ACT 2:38ACT 3:19HEB 8:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of repentance in the Christian faith. He highlights the need for believers to turn away from idols and fully devote themselves to God. The preacher explains that the purpose of the gospel is for the world to see Jesus Christ in the church, which is why the church is called the body of Christ. He also discusses the overemphasis on faith and the need for a balanced message of repentance. The sermon references the preaching of John the Baptist and his call for repentance and baptism for the remission of sins.
How to Resurrect a Dead Church
By David Wilkerson2.3K30:12EXO 33:142CH 7:14PSA 51:10MAT 18:20JHN 15:4ACT 3:19EPH 5:14HEB 12:28JAS 4:8REV 3:2This sermon emphasizes the need for churches to be revived by the presence of Jesus Christ, highlighting the decline in spiritual fervor and the rise of dead churches. It calls for a return to prayer, communion with God, and a deep seeking of His presence to bring about true revival and transformation in churches and leaders. The speaker shares personal experiences and insights on the importance of maintaining a genuine connection with God to combat spiritual deadness and ensure the manifestation of Christ's presence in every service.
Book of Acts Series - Part 1 | Visitation
By Jim Cymbala2.3K29:59Book Of ActsACT 2:1ACT 3:19ACT 4:31ACT 10:44In this sermon, Pastor Symbola discusses the importance of receiving the power of the Holy Spirit to be effective witnesses for Jesus. He explains that Jesus died on the cross as a sacrifice for our sins, allowing us to be free. After Jesus rose from the dead, he appeared to the disciples for 40 days, teaching them about the kingdom of God. Pastor Symbola also shares his personal experience of being visited by the Holy Spirit and emphasizes the need for repentance and conversion to receive times of refreshing from the presence of the Lord.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Repent ye therefore - Now that ye are convinced that this was the Messiah, let your minds be changed, and your hearts become contrite for the sins you have committed. And be converted - ΕπιϚρεψατε, Turn to God through this Christ, deeply deploring your transgressions, and believing on his name; that your sins may be blotted out, which are not only recorded against you, but for which you are condemned by the justice of God; and the punishment due to them must be executed upon you, unless prevented by your repentance, and turning to him whom ye have pierced. The blotting out of sins may refer to the ceremony of the waters of jealousy, where the curse that was written in the book was to be blotted out with the bitter water. See the note on Num 5:23. Their sins were written down against them, and cried aloud for punishment; for they themselves had said, His blood be upon us, and upon our children, Mat 27:25; and unless they took refuge in this sacrificial blood, and got their sins blotted out by it, they could not be saved. When the times of refreshing shall come - Dr. Lightfoot contends, and so ought all, that ὁπως αν ελθωσι καιροι αναψυξεως, should be translated, That the times of refreshing May come. Αναψυξις, signifies a breathing time, or respite, and may be here applied to the space that elapsed from this time till the destruction of Jerusalem by the Romans. This was a time of respite, which God gave them to repent of their sins, and be converted to himself. Taking the word in the sense of refreshment in general, it may mean the whole reign of the kingdom of grace, and the blessings which God gives here below to all genuine believers, peace, love, joy, and communion with himself. See on Act 3:21 (note).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
when the times of refreshing shall come--rather, "in order that the times of refreshing may come"; that long period of repose, prosperity and joy, which all the prophets hold forth to the distracted Church and this miserable world, as eventually to come, and which is here, as in all the prophets, made to turn upon the national conversion of Israel.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Repent ye therefore,.... The Ethiopic version adds, "and be baptized"; see Gill on Act 2:38, and be converted. The apostle's sense is, repent of the sin of crucifying Christ, which is what he had been charging them with, and turn unto him, and acknowledge him as the Messiah; receive his doctrines, and submit to his ordinances; externally reform in life and conversation, and bring forth fruits meet for repentance, such as will show it to be true and genuine: that your sins may be blotted out; or forgiven, see Psa 51:9. Not that repentance and reformation procure the pardon of sin, or are the causes of it, for forgiveness is entirely owing to the free grace of God, and blood of Christ; but inasmuch as that is only manifested and applied to repenting and converted sinners; and who are encouraged to repent, and turn to the Lord from the promise of pardon; it is incumbent on them, and is their interest so to do, that they may have a discovery of the remission of their sins by the blood of Christ. Though no other repentance and conversion may be here meant than an external one; and the blotting out of sin, and forgiveness of it, may intend no other than the removing a present calamity, or the averting a threatened judgment, or the deliverance of persons from national ruin, Exo 32:32. These Jews had crucified the Lord of glory, and for this sin were threatened with miserable destruction; the apostle therefore exhorteth them to repentance for it, and to a conversion to the Messiah, that so when ruin should come upon their nation, they might be delivered from the general calamity; when it would be terrible times to the unbelieving and impenitent Jews, but times of refreshment, ease, peace, and rest from persecution, to the believers, as is next expressed. When the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; or "that the times of refreshing may come", as the Syriac version; either seasons of spiritual refreshment, joy, and peace, through the great and precious promises of the Gospel, and by the application of the blood and righteousness of Christ, to such penitent and converted sinners; which refreshment and comfort come from the Lord, and are accompanied with his gracious presence: or else seasons of rest, and deliverance from the violent heat of persecution; which was the case of the saints at the destruction of Jerusalem; they were not only saved from that ruin, but delivered from the wrath of their most implacable enemies. The Ethiopic version renders it, "and the day of mercy shall come from the presence of the Lord", repenting sinners find mercy; and a discovery of pardon is a time of mercy; and when God grants this, he affords his presence. The Jews call the world to come a time of refreshment; and say (b), "better is one hour , "of refreshment", in the world to come, than the whole life of this world.'' (b) Pirke Abot, c. 4. sect. 17.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:19-21 The message of Good News offers refreshment (see Matt 11:28-29). The second coming of Christ will be one of those times of refreshment from God, when he will again send . . . Jesus to his people. 3:19 The Good News of forgiveness is more fully explained elsewhere (see 5:30-32; 10:36-43; 13:26-38; Luke 24:25-27, 45-47).