L. UNDERSTANDING THE MESSAGE OF THE BIBLE

The sign read, REPENT, YOU SINNER!

“What does that mean?” asked one of the international students, his curiosity piqued. To answer, the concepts of repentance and sin would need explanation.

The setting referenced is from the story of the Apostle Paul. Before his repentance, Paul actively persecuted Christians for their faith. However, on the road to Damascus, where he intended to continue his persecution, he encountered Jesus. This transformative moment led Paul to repentance—a complete change of heart and direction, turning away from his sinful ways to follow Christ.

This passage of Scripture provides insight into Paul’s later words to the early church as they gathered in faith. Let’s explore this text for a deeper understanding.

Acts 20:21-22

²⁰ You know that I have not hesitated to preach anything that would be helpful to you but have taught you publicly and from house to house. ²¹ I have declared to both Jews and Greeks that they must turn to God in repentance and have faith in our Lord Jesus.

1. Who is the speaker of this first sentence?

2. How did he provide teaching?

3. Why does he mention Jews and Greeks?

4. What does he encourage them to do?

5. What are they turning away from?

6. How does repentance connect with turning away?

7. What are they turning away from, and to what?

8. What does it mean to have faith in the Lord Jesus?

1. What kind of experience have you had with repentance?

2. What do you think you need to do to turn to God?

3. What do you need to repent from?

4. How will you make this repentance a genuine experience?