Acts 3:19

KJV

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;

KJV (with Strong's)

Repent ye {G3340} therefore {G3767}, and {G2532} be converted {G1994}, that {G1519} your {G5216} sins {G266} may be blotted out {G1813}, when {G3704} the times {G2540} of refreshing {G403} shall come {G302}{G2064} from {G575} the presence {G4383} of the Lord {G2962};

Complete Jewish Bible

“Therefore, repent and turn to God, so that your sins may be erased;

Berean Standard Bible

Repent, then, and turn back, so that your sins may be wiped away,

American Standard Version

Repent ye therefore, and turn again, that your sins may be blotted out, that so there may come seasons of refreshing from the presence of the Lord;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 3:19 stands as a profound call to spiritual transformation, delivered by the Apostle Peter to a Jewish audience in Jerusalem. It encapsulates the core Gospel message: a decisive turning away from sin and a turning towards God, which results in the complete forgiveness of sins and the promise of spiritual renewal and ultimate restoration that flows from the very presence of the Lord. This verse serves as both an urgent invitation to respond to God's grace and a hopeful declaration of the blessings that accompany such a response.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This powerful exhortation by the Apostle Peter is delivered in Solomon's Porch at the Temple, following a remarkable miracle. Peter and John had just encountered a man lame from birth at the Temple's Beautiful Gate and, through the power of God, Peter healed him [in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth](/acts/3-6 "Acts 3:6 - Healing of the Lame Man"). As a crowd gathered, astonished by this undeniable sign, Peter seized the moment to preach the Gospel. His sermon, recorded in [Acts 3:12-26](/acts/3-12-26 "Acts 3:12-26 - Peter's Second Sermon"), boldly confronts the crowd for their unwitting role in crucifying Jesus, whom God had raised from the dead and glorified. Acts 3:19 then serves as the climactic invitation to respond to this truth, echoing Peter's earlier call to repentance on the Day of Pentecost in [Acts 2:38](/acts/2-38 "Acts 2:38 - Peter's Call to Repentance and Baptism"). It is a direct appeal for a change of heart and direction in light of God's redemptive work through Jesus.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Peter's sermon is delivered within the highly charged atmosphere of post-crucifixion Jerusalem, to a predominantly Jewish audience deeply rooted in Mosaic Law and Messianic expectations. The setting, Solomon's Porch, was a prominent public gathering place within the Temple complex, making it an ideal venue for Peter's public address. The concept of "sins being blotted out" would resonate deeply with a Jewish understanding of forgiveness, particularly in light of the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur), where sins were symbolically removed. The idea of "times of refreshing" (Greek: *kairoi anapsyxeōs*) would evoke prophetic promises of a future golden age of restoration, often associated with the coming of the Messiah and the establishment of His kingdom, as seen in passages like [Isaiah 49:8-13](/isaiah/49-8-13 "Isaiah 49:8-13 - The Lord's Covenant with Israel") or [Jeremiah 31:25](/jeremiah/31-25 "Jeremiah 31:25 - Refreshment for the Weary Soul"). Peter is, therefore, reinterpreting these familiar concepts through the lens of Jesus as the Messiah.
* **Key Themes:** Acts 3:19 masterfully weaves together several profound theological and narrative themes. The primary theme is **Repentance** (*metanoeō*), signifying a fundamental change of mind, a turning away from sin, and a reorientation towards God. This is not merely regret but a decisive shift in one's life direction and allegiance, as seen in [Luke 13:3](/luke/13-3 "Luke 13:3 - Unless you Repent"). Closely linked is **Conversion** (*epistrephō*), which complements repentance by emphasizing the active turning *to* God, implying a restoration of relationship and an embrace of His will, as exemplified in [1 Thessalonians 1:9](/1_thessalonians/1-9 "1 Thessalonians 1:9 - Turning to God from Idols"). The promise that "your sins may be blotted out" (*exaleíphō*) speaks of complete **Forgiveness**, an erasure or wiping away, assuring total divine pardon and a clean slate, a central benefit of turning to Christ, foreshadowed in [Psalm 51:9](/psalms/51-9 "Psalm 51:9 - Blot Out All My Iniquities"). Finally, the "times of refreshing" (*kairoi anapsyxeōs*) points to **Restoration and Renewal**, referring to periods of spiritual solace, rest, and revival, both in the present experience of the Holy Spirit's presence and ultimately in the eschatological hope of Christ's return and the full establishment of His kingdom, bringing ultimate rest and renewal to creation, as anticipated in [Revelation 21:5](/revelation/21-5 "Revelation 21:5 - Behold, I Make All Things New").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Repent (Greek, _metanoéō'_):** From μετά and νοιέω, meaning "to think differently or afterwards, i.e. reconsider (morally, feel compunction)." This word signifies a fundamental change of mind that leads to a change of direction and behavior. It is not merely sorrow for sin, but a complete reorientation of one's will and life towards God.
* **Converted (Greek, _epistréphō'_):** From ἐπί and στρέφω, meaning "to revert (literally, figuratively or morally); come (go) again, convert, (re-)turn (about, again)." This term emphasizes the active turning *to* God, a turning back to Him from whom one has strayed. It is the positive complement to repentance, indicating a restoration of relationship and alignment with God's will.
* **Blotted out (Greek, _exaleíphō'_):** From ἐκ and ἀλείφω, meaning "to smear out, i.e. obliterate (erase tears, figuratively, pardon sin); blot out, wipe away." This vivid term paints a picture of complete removal or erasure. It was used for wiping a debt record clean or erasing writing from a document, signifying that the sin is not just covered but entirely removed from God's record, leaving no trace.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Repent ye therefore, and be converted":** This is an urgent, dual imperative. "Therefore" (G3767, *oûn*) links this command directly to Peter's preceding explanation of Jesus' identity and the crowd's responsibility for His death. "Repent" (G3340, *metanoéō*) calls for a radical change of mind and heart regarding their sin and their relationship with God. "Be converted" (G1994, *epistréphō*) is the active turning *to* God, a reorientation of life away from sin and towards Him, signifying a commitment to follow His ways. This phrase encapsulates the essential human response to the Gospel.
* **"that your sins may be blotted out":** This clause reveals the glorious purpose and immediate benefit of repentance and conversion. The Greek "that" (G1519, *eis*) indicates purpose or result. "Sins" (G266, *hamartía*) refers to the transgressions against God's law. "Blotted out" (G1813, *exaleíphō*) is a powerful image of complete erasure, as if a record of debt or wrongdoing is wiped clean. It signifies total forgiveness, a divine act that removes the guilt and penalty of sin, leaving no record against the repentant individual.
* **"when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;":** This clause describes the future blessings that accompany forgiveness and a renewed relationship with God. "When" (G3704, *hópōs*) introduces the timing, indicating that these "times" (G2540, *kairós*, referring to a set or proper season) are a consequence of repentance and conversion. "Refreshing" (G403, *anápsyxis*) literally means a 'recovery of breath' or 'cooling,' suggesting relief, rest, and renewed vigor after exertion or heat. This refers to spiritual renewal, peace, and revival that flows directly "from the presence" (G4383, *prósōpon*, literally 'face' or 'countenance') "of the Lord" (G2962, *kýrios*). This can encompass both present spiritual solace through the Holy Spirit and the ultimate eschatological restoration at Christ's return.

#### Literary Devices
Acts 3:19 employs several powerful literary devices. **Metaphor** is vividly used in the phrase "your sins may be blotted out." This imagery of erasing a written record or wiping a slate clean powerfully conveys the completeness of divine forgiveness, suggesting that sin is not merely covered but utterly removed from God's memory and account. The phrase "times of refreshing" utilizes **Imagery** that evokes a sense of relief, rest, and renewed vitality, much like finding shade and cool water after a long, hot journey. This imagery effectively communicates the spiritual solace and invigoration that God's presence brings. Furthermore, the pairing of "repent" and "be converted" demonstrates a form of **Parallelism**, where two closely related actions are presented together to emphasize the comprehensive nature of the required spiritual turning – both a turning *from* sin and a turning *to* God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 3:19 stands as a cornerstone of New Testament theology, articulating the essential human response to God's redemptive work. It underscores the profound truth that divine forgiveness and spiritual renewal are contingent upon genuine repentance and conversion. This verse highlights God's gracious initiative in offering a path to reconciliation, while simultaneously emphasizing the necessity of human agency in responding to that offer. The "blotting out" of sins speaks to the complete efficacy of Christ's atoning work, removing the barrier between humanity and a holy God. The promise of "times of refreshing" points to the multifaceted blessings of salvation, encompassing both the present experience of the Holy Spirit's indwelling and the future hope of cosmic restoration when Christ returns. It connects the individual's spiritual state to the broader eschatological plan of God.

* [Acts 2:38](/acts/2-38 "Acts 2:38 - Peter's Call to Repentance and Baptism")
* [Isaiah 44:22](/isaiah/44-22 "Isaiah 44:22 - Sins Blotted Out Like a Thick Cloud")
* [Revelation 21:4](/revelation/21-4 "Revelation 21:4 - God Wipes Away Every Tear")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 3:19 offers a timeless and deeply personal message for believers across all generations. It calls us to a continuous posture of self-examination and humility, acknowledging our ongoing need for repentance and turning away from anything that grieves God. Forgiveness is not a one-time event but a daily reality for the Christian, reminding us that God's grace is always available to cleanse and restore. The promise of "times of refreshing" assures us that in God's presence, we find true rest, renewal, and strength for our spiritual journey. This refreshment comes through prayer, Scripture, worship, and the indwelling Holy Spirit, empowering us to live a life pleasing to Him. Moreover, this verse directs our hope towards the future, reminding us that the ultimate "refreshing" will come with the glorious return of Christ, when all things will be made new and perfected by His presence. It encourages us to live with eager anticipation for that day, letting this hope shape our present actions and priorities.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you need to genuinely repent and turn back to God?**
* **How do you experience the "times of refreshing" from the Lord's presence in your daily walk?**
* **What does it mean for you personally that your sins are "blotted out" by God, and how does this truth impact your sense of identity and security?**

### FAQ

**What is the difference between "repent" and "be converted" in this verse?**

Answer: While closely related and often used together, "repent" (Greek: *metanoéō*) primarily refers to a change of mind or a reorientation of one's inner disposition concerning sin and God. It's an inward turning away from sin. "Be converted" (Greek: *epistréphō*), on the other hand, emphasizes the active, outward turning *to* God. It signifies a decisive shift in allegiance and direction, a return to Him. So, repentance is the change of heart, and conversion is the subsequent change of direction and life that flows from it, leading to a restored relationship with God.

**What are the "times of refreshing" mentioned here?**

Answer: The "times of refreshing" (Greek: *kairoi anapsyxeōs*) refer to periods of spiritual renewal, rest, and revival that come from the presence of the Lord. This phrase has a dual fulfillment. First, it speaks to the spiritual refreshment and peace that believers experience in the present through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, which is a foretaste of future glory (see [John 7:38-39](/john/7-38-39 "John 7:38-39 - Rivers of Living Water")). Second, and more comprehensively in Peter's context, it points to the eschatological hope of Christ's return, when He will fully establish His kingdom, bringing ultimate rest, renewal, and restoration to all creation (as hinted at in [Acts 3:21](/acts/3-21 "Acts 3:21 - Jesus Must Remain in Heaven")). It encompasses both personal spiritual revitalization and the grand, cosmic restoration at the end of the age.

**Is this verse only for Peter's original Jewish audience, or does it apply to everyone?**

Answer: While Peter's immediate audience was Jewish, the core message of Acts 3:19 is universally applicable. The call to "repent" and "be converted" is a foundational requirement for salvation for all people, regardless of their background, as seen throughout the New Testament (e.g., [Luke 24:47](/luke/24-47 "Luke 24:47 - Repentance and Forgiveness Proclaimed")). The promise of "sins being blotted out" and "times of refreshing" is God's gracious offer to anyone who turns to Him through faith in Jesus Christ. This verse articulates fundamental principles of the Gospel that transcend cultural and historical boundaries, inviting everyone to experience God's forgiveness and renewal.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 3:19 finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. It is through His atoning work on the cross that genuine repentance and conversion become possible, and the "blotting out" of sins is secured. Jesus Himself initiated the call to repentance, declaring, "[The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel](/mark/1-15 "Mark 1:15 - Jesus' Call to Repentance and Belief")" ([Mark 1:15](/mark/1-15 "Mark 1:15 - Jesus' Call to Repentance and Belief")). He is the Lamb of God whose sacrifice takes away the sin of the world, making the complete erasure of our transgressions a reality (as proclaimed in [John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")). Furthermore, the "times of refreshing" flow directly "from the presence of the Lord" because Jesus is the Lord who sends the Holy Spirit, the ultimate source of spiritual comfort, renewal, and power ([John 14:26](/john/14-26 "John 14:26 - The Holy Spirit, the Helper")). He is the one who promises living water that quenches spiritual thirst and brings eternal life ([John 4:14](/john/4-14 "John 4:14 - Living Water")). Ultimately, the full and final "times of refreshing" will culminate in Christ's glorious return, when He will restore all things and usher in the new heavens and new earth, bringing the very presence of God to dwell among His people forever ([Revelation 21:3-5](/revelation/21-3-5 "Revelation 21:3-5 - God Dwells with His People")). Thus, Acts 3:19 is a powerful Christ-centered invitation to experience the present and future blessings secured by His finished work and promised return.

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

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.

Isaiah 44:22

I have blotted out, as a thick cloud, thy transgressions, and, as a cloud, thy sins: return unto me; for I have redeemed thee.

Isaiah 43:25

I, [even] I, [am] he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins.

Matthew 13:15

For this people's heart is waxed gross, and [their] ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with [their] eyes, and hear with [their] ears, and should understand with [their] heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.

Matthew 18:3

And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.

Isaiah 1:16

¶ Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before mine eyes; cease to do evil;

Isaiah 1:20

But if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken [it].