New Testament
Acts 3:19
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
So repent and be converted, so that your sins may be wiped away, and times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord.
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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;
What Acts 3:19 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse invites us to change our hearts and minds, turning away from our wrongdoings. When we genuinely repent, our mistakes and regrets are erased, like a clean slate. This act of turning back to God opens the door for new beginnings. It’s a promise that refreshing moments will come from God’s presence, bringing peace and renewal. Imagine feeling the weight of guilt lifted off your shoulders, replaced by a sense of hope and joy. This transformation is not just about feeling better; it’s about experiencing a deeper connection with God. It’s an invitation to embrace a life filled with purpose and clarity, where we can truly thrive. By accepting this call, we can find strength to move forward, leaving behind what holds us back. The refreshing times mentioned are not just fleeting moments; they are a continual experience of God’s love and grace in our lives. This is a beautiful reminder that change is possible and that God is always ready to welcome us back with open arms.
How to apply Acts 3:19 to your life
Take a moment to reflect on areas in your life where you need to change. Acknowledge your mistakes and ask for forgiveness. Embrace the idea that you can start fresh and experience God’s refreshing presence. This can lead to a more fulfilling life filled with purpose and joy. Remember, it’s never too late to turn back to God and seek renewal in your life.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
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Illustrated scene from Peter's story: Healing at the Beautiful Gate (Acts 3:1–26)
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Peter
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Bethlehem
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Plain Meaning
Peter calls the crowd to repent and be converted so their sins can be blotted out. To repent means to turn away from what you have been doing wrong. To be converted means to turn toward God. "Blotted out" pictures sins being wiped away completely, as if erased. Peter connects this to "the times of refreshing" that come from God — a future time of restoration he goes on to describe in the next verses.
Read It in Context
Peter is speaking to a crowd gathered in the temple after a lame man was healed. He has just told them they handed Jesus over to be killed, but that God fulfilled what the prophets had foretold. The word "therefore" points back to that: because God has fulfilled these things, the right response is to repent.
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Keep studying Acts 3:19
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Acts
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Acts 3:19 mean?
Acts 3:19 encourages people to repent and turn back to God, promising that their sins will be forgiven and they will experience renewal from God's presence.
What is the meaning of repentance in Acts 3:19?
In Acts 3:19, repentance means to change your heart and mind, turning away from wrong actions and seeking forgiveness from God.
What are the times of refreshing mentioned in Acts 3:19?
The times of refreshing in Acts 3:19 refer to the renewal and peace that come from experiencing God's presence after repenting and being forgiven.
How can I apply Acts 3:19 in my life?
You can apply Acts 3:19 by reflecting on your life, acknowledging your mistakes, seeking forgiveness, and embracing the opportunity for a fresh start with God.
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