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.

ACTS 26:20KJV
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Acts 26:20 (KJV)

What does Acts 26:20 mean?

Acts 26:20 describes how Paul told people in Damascus, Jerusalem, all Judea, and then non-Jews (Gentiles) that they should change their minds and lives (repent), turn to God, and show their change by doing actions that fit with real repentance. Paul’s message was for everyone, urging a genuine change shown by new behavior.

Paul is speaking to King Agrippa, explaining what he preached after his dramatic encounter with Jesus. Paul’s summary here shows that his message was consistent everywhere: he called all people, both Jews and Gentiles, to turn away from their old ways, turn toward God, and demonstrate this change through their actions. The verse highlights the wide reach of Paul’s ministry and the practical nature of repentance he taught.

The Greek behind Acts 26:20

  • μετανοέω (metanoeō, “repent”): This word means more than feeling sorry; it is about a real change of mind and direction. Paul’s use of this word stresses that repentance is not just an emotion but a decision to live differently.
  • ἐπιστρέφω (epistrephō, “turn”): This word means to turn around or return. Here, it points to an active turning toward God, not just away from sin.
  • ἔργα ἄξια (erga axia, “works meet”): These words together mean “actions that are fitting” or “worthy” of repentance. Paul is clear that real repentance leads to visible, practical changes in how a person lives.

Why Acts 26:20 matters

  • Acts 26:20 clears up the idea that repentance is only a feeling or a private matter; Paul ties it directly to visible actions and a changed life.
  • The verse shows that Paul’s message was the same to Jews and Gentiles, underlining the universal scope of his teaching.
  • In the context of Acts 26, Paul is defending himself against accusations, and this verse shows that his message was about transformation, not rebellion or law-breaking.

Where else these words appear

“Damascus” Greek G1154 · used in 15 verses

  • Acts 9:2 And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.
  • Acts 9:19 And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus.
  • Acts 22:10 And I said, What shall I do, Lord? And the Lord said unto me, Arise, and go into Damascus; and there it shall be told thee of all things which are appointed for thee to do.

“repentance” Greek G3341 · used in 24 verses

  • Matthew 3:8 Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance:
  • Luke 5:32 I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.
  • Romans 2:4 Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?

“coasts” Greek G5561 · used in 27 verses

  • Matthew 2:12 And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way.
  • Luke 8:26 And they arrived at the country of the Gadarenes, which is over against Galilee.
  • John 11:55 And the Jews' passover was nigh at hand: and many went out of the country up to Jerusalem before the passover, to purify themselves.

“repent” Greek G3340 · used in 32 verses

  • Matthew 3:2 And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
  • Luke 13:5 I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.
  • 2 Corinthians 12:21 And lest, when I come again, my God will humble me among you, and that I shall bewail many which have sinned already, and have not repented of the uncleanness and fornication and lasciviousness which they have committed.