Acts 26:20

KJV

But shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judaea, and [then] to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance.

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G235} shewed {G518}{G518} first {G4412} unto them of {G1722} Damascus {G1154}, and {G2532} at Jerusalem {G2414}, and {G5037} throughout {G1519} all {G3956} the coasts {G5561} of Judaea {G2449}, and {G2532} then to the Gentiles {G1484}, that they should repent {G3340} and {G2532} turn {G1994} to {G1909} God {G2316}, and do {G4238} works {G2041} meet {G514} for repentance {G3341}.

Complete Jewish Bible

On the contrary, I announced first in Dammesek, then in Yerushalayim and throughout Y’hudah, and also to the Goyim, that they should turn from their sins to God and then do deeds consistent with that repentance.

Berean Standard Bible

First 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.

American Standard Version

but declared both to them of Damascus first, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the country of Judæa, and also to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, doing works worthy of repentance.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Paul, in his defense before King Agrippa II, articulates the essence and expansive reach of his apostolic ministry. He recounts his faithful obedience to the divine commission received from the resurrected Christ, emphasizing that his preaching consistently called all people—first Jews in Damascus, Jerusalem, and throughout Judea, and then Gentiles—to a profound change of mind and heart, to turn decisively towards God, and to demonstrate the authenticity of this transformation through actions consistent with true repentance.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Acts 26:20 is embedded within Paul's eloquent and compelling defense before King Agrippa II, Governor Festus, and a distinguished assembly in Caesarea. Paul is recounting his dramatic conversion experience on the road to Damascus, detailed in [Acts 26:12-18](/acts/26-12-18 "Paul's Conversion and Commission"). This particular verse serves as a concise summary of how Paul faithfully executed the divine commission he received from the resurrected Christ—a commission that instructed him to open the eyes of both Jews and Gentiles, turn them from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, so they might receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among the sanctified. Paul's defense aims to demonstrate that his preaching, which led to his arrest and current predicament, was not sedition or heresy but a direct and obedient response to this heavenly vision, aligning perfectly with the prophecies of the Old Testament and the teachings of Moses ([Acts 26:22-23](/acts/26-22-23 "Paul's Defense: Prophecy and Resurrection")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul's ministry unfolded within the complex socio-religious landscape of the Roman Empire, particularly in regions with significant Jewish populations and burgeoning Gentile communities. Damascus was a major city and a key point in early Christian history, being the place of Paul's conversion and initial ministry. Jerusalem was the spiritual heart of Judaism and the nascent Christian movement, while Judea encompassed the broader Jewish homeland. The expansion of the Gospel "to the Gentiles" represented a radical shift from the traditional Jewish understanding of God's covenant people, challenging deeply ingrained cultural and religious boundaries. Paul's message of repentance and turning to God would have resonated differently with Jewish audiences, who understood repentance within the framework of the Torah and covenant, versus Gentile audiences, who were often steeped in polytheism, idolatry, and various philosophical systems. The concept of "works meet for repentance" would have been understood by both as observable evidence of a changed life, though the specific "works" would differ based on the cultural context (e.g., abandoning idols for Gentiles, adherence to ethical monotheism for Jews).
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several overarching themes central to the book of Acts and Paul's theology. Foremost is the **Universal Scope of the Gospel**, demonstrating God's inclusive plan for salvation extending beyond the Jewish people to all humanity, a theme foreshadowed in the Old Testament prophets and explicitly commanded by Christ in the [Great Commission](/matthew/28-19 "The Great Commission"). It highlights the **Transformative Power of the Gospel**, emphasizing that true faith involves a radical internal change (repentance and turning to God) that inevitably leads to outward behavioral transformation ("works meet for repentance"). This concept of faith expressing itself through works is vital for understanding Christian ethics, as seen in passages like [James 2:17](/james/2-17 "Faith Without Works Is Dead"). Furthermore, the verse underscores **Paul's Apostolic Obedience and Faithfulness** to his divine calling, showcasing his unwavering commitment to proclaim the message of Christ despite intense persecution and opposition, a recurring motif throughout [the book of Acts](/acts/1 "The Book of Acts").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **repent (Greek, _metanoéō'_):** From `metá` (after, with) and `noiéō` (to perceive, think), this verb signifies a fundamental "change of mind" or "reconsideration." It implies a profound shift in one's inner disposition, purpose, and moral direction, leading to a complete reorientation of one's life away from sin and towards God. It is not merely sorrow for past actions but a decisive turning.
* **turn (Greek, _epistréphō'_):** Derived from `epí` (upon, towards) and `stréphō` (to turn), this verb means "to revert," "to turn back," or "to turn oneself to." In this context, it describes the active, volitional act of reorienting one's life and allegiance from a former path (of sin, idolatry, or self-reliance) directly towards God. It emphasizes the active commitment involved in conversion.
* **works (Greek, _érgon'_):** This noun refers to "toil" (as an effort or occupation) or, by implication, "an act" or "deed." In the phrase "works meet for repentance," it denotes the tangible, observable actions and behaviors that naturally flow from a genuine change of heart and mind. These are not deeds performed to earn salvation but are the authentic fruit and evidence of a transformed life.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judaea,"**: Paul begins by asserting his consistent proclamation of the Gospel, starting with the very places where his ministry began and was most intensely focused among the Jewish people. Damascus was the site of his conversion and initial preaching, while Jerusalem was the spiritual center and the place where he faced significant opposition. "Throughout all the coasts of Judaea" signifies a comprehensive outreach across the Jewish homeland, demonstrating his commitment to his own people first, in accordance with the divine order of salvation being "to the Jew first, and also to the Greek" ([Romans 1:16](/romans/1-16 "The Power of the Gospel")).
* **"and then to the Gentiles,"**: This phrase marks the pivotal expansion of Paul's ministry beyond the confines of Jewish communities to include non-Jewish nations. This was a direct fulfillment of his apostolic commission to be a "light to the Gentiles" ([Acts 26:18](/acts/26-18 "Paul's Commission to the Gentiles")). It underscores the universal scope of the Gospel message and God's redemptive plan for all humanity, breaking down ethnic and cultural barriers.
* **"that they should repent and turn to God,"**: This clause articulates the core content of Paul's preaching. "Repent" (Gk. _metanoéō_) signifies a radical change of mind and heart, a complete reorientation away from sin and self-centeredness. "Turn to God" (Gk. _epistréphō epí ton theón_) emphasizes the active, decisive re-direction of one's life and allegiance towards the living God, abandoning former idols or ways of life. These two actions are inseparable, representing the inward and outward aspects of true conversion.
* **"and do works meet for repentance."**: This final phrase specifies the necessary outcome and evidence of genuine repentance and turning to God. "Works meet for repentance" (Gk. _érga áxia tēs metanoías_) means actions that are "worthy of" or "consistent with" the changed heart. These are not meritorious works that earn salvation but are the natural, observable fruit of a transformed life, demonstrating the sincerity and reality of one's conversion. They serve as tangible proof that the internal change has taken root and is producing a new way of living aligned with God's will.

#### Literary Devices
Paul's summary in Acts 26:20 employs several effective literary devices. The use of **Anaphora** and **Parallelism** is evident in the repeated geographical progression ("unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judaea, and then to the Gentiles"), which serves to emphasize the comprehensive and ever-expanding reach of his ministry. This geographical listing also creates a sense of **Climax**, moving from specific cities to broader regions and finally to the universal category of "Gentiles," highlighting the global scope of the Gospel. **Juxtaposition** is present in the implicit contrast between the initial focus on Jewish communities and the subsequent expansion "to the Gentiles," underscoring the revolutionary nature of God's inclusive plan. The entire statement functions as a concise **Summary** or **Recapitulation** of Paul's life's work, providing a powerful and authoritative declaration of his mission's faithfulness and divine origin.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 26:20 stands as a foundational statement regarding the nature of conversion and the universal call of the Gospel. Theologically, it asserts that genuine faith is not merely intellectual assent but involves a radical, holistic transformation: an internal change of mind (repentance) that leads to an active reorientation of one's life toward God, evidenced by outward actions consistent with that change. This holistic view of salvation underscores that while salvation is by grace through faith, true faith will inevitably produce fruit. The verse also powerfully reinforces the New Testament's revelation of God's redemptive plan for all humanity, breaking down the ancient barrier between Jew and Gentile and extending the offer of salvation to every tribe, tongue, people, and nation.

* [Luke 3:8](/luke/3-8 "John the Baptist's Call for Fruits of Repentance")
* [Romans 2:4](/romans/2-4 "God's Kindness Leads to Repentance")
* [2 Peter 3:9](/2_peter/3-9 "God's Patience and Desire for All to Repent")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 26:20 offers profound insights for contemporary believers, reminding us that the core message of the Gospel remains unchanged. Our own journey of faith must begin with genuine repentance—a sincere turning away from sin and self, and a decisive turning towards God. This is not a one-time event but a continuous posture of humility and submission. Furthermore, this verse challenges us to examine our lives: do our "works" truly "meet for repentance"? Are our actions, attitudes, and priorities consistent with the transformation we profess to have experienced? This is not about earning salvation, but about demonstrating its reality and power in our daily lives. Finally, Paul's expansive ministry serves as a powerful call to missional living. Just as Paul was compelled to share this message with all, we too are commissioned to proclaim the transformative power of repentance and faith to those in our spheres of influence, regardless of their background, trusting in God's desire for all to come to Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of your life do you need to cultivate a deeper sense of repentance and turn more fully to God?**
* **What "works meet for repentance" are evident in your life, demonstrating the authenticity of your faith to others?**
* **How can you, like Paul, expand your sphere of influence to share the message of repentance and turning to God with those who are different from you?**

### FAQ
**What is the difference between "repent" and "turn to God" in this verse?**

Answer: While closely related and often used together, "repent" (Greek: _metanoéō_) primarily refers to an internal change of mind, a fundamental shift in one's thinking, attitude, and purpose regarding sin and God. It's a re-evaluation that leads to regret and a desire for change. "Turn to God" (Greek: _epistréphō epí ton theón_), on the other hand, describes the outward, active reorientation of one's life and allegiance. It's the decisive act of abandoning a former way of life (e.g., idolatry, self-worship, sin) and re-directing one's entire being towards a relationship with the living God. Repentance is the internal shift that enables the turning, and turning is the active expression of that repentance. Both are essential components of true conversion, as seen in passages like [1 Thessalonians 1:9](/1_thessalonians/1-9 "Turning from Idols to Serve the Living God").

**Does "works meet for repentance" imply that good works are necessary for salvation?**

Answer: No, "works meet for repentance" (Greek: _érga áxia tēs metanoías_) does not imply that good works are a prerequisite for salvation or a means to earn it. The Bible consistently teaches that salvation is by grace through faith alone ([Ephesians 2:8-9](/ephesians/2-8-9 "Salvation by Grace Through Faith")). Instead, these "works" are the *evidence* or *fruit* of genuine repentance and a transformed heart. They are the natural and necessary outflow of a life changed by God's grace. Just as a healthy tree produces good fruit, a truly repentant heart will manifest itself in a changed lifestyle that aligns with God's will. This concept is echoed by John the Baptist's call for people to "bear fruits in keeping with repentance" in [Matthew 3:8](/matthew/3-8 "John the Baptist's Call for Fruits of Repentance"). These works demonstrate the authenticity of one's faith, rather than contributing to its acquisition.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 26:20, while detailing Paul's ministry, points profoundly to the person and work of Jesus Christ as the ultimate fulfillment of the call to repentance and the source of true transformation. The very message Paul preached—to "repent and turn to God"—is fundamentally a call to embrace the salvation offered *through Christ*. It is through Christ's atoning sacrifice on the cross that forgiveness of sins is made possible, and it is His resurrection that empowers believers to turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God ([Colossians 1:13-14](/colossians/1-13-14 "Delivered from Darkness into the Kingdom of His Son")). The "works meet for repentance" are not merely human efforts but are empowered by the indwelling Holy Spirit, who conforms believers to the image of Christ ([Romans 8:29](/romans/8-29 "Conformed to the Image of His Son")). Jesus Himself began His public ministry with the call to "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand" ([Matthew 4:17](/matthew/4-17 "Jesus Begins His Ministry")). He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John the Baptist Identifies Jesus as the Lamb of God")), making genuine repentance and turning to God not just a moral imperative, but a gracious possibility rooted in His finished work. Thus, Paul's summary of his ministry is, at its heart, a Christ-centered proclamation of reconciliation and new life.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Matthew 3:8

Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance:

Acts 3:19

Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;

Acts 2:38

Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

2 Timothy 2:25

In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;

2 Timothy 2:26

And [that] they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.

Revelation 2:5

Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.

2 Peter 1:5

¶ And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge;