²⁰ For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made,^(A) so that people are without excuse.^(B)

²¹ For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened.^(C)

¹⁷ “Now, fellow Israelites,^(A) I know that you acted in ignorance,^(B) as did your leaders.^{(C) 18} But this is how God fulfilled^(D) what he had foretold^(E) through all the prophets,^(F) saying that his Messiah would suffer.^{(G) 19} Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out,^(H) that times of refreshing may come from the Lord, ²⁰ and that he may send the Messiah,^(I) who has been appointed for you—even Jesus.

³⁰ In the past God overlooked^(A) such ignorance,^(B) but now he commands all people everywhere to repent.^(C)

¹³ Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor^(A) and a violent man, I was shown mercy^(B) because I acted in ignorance and unbelief.^{(C) 14} The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly,^(D) along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.^(E)

¹⁵ Here is a trustworthy saying^(F) that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners^(G)—of whom I am the worst. ¹⁶ But for that very reason I was shown mercy^(H) so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience^(I) as an example for those who would believe^(J) in him and receive eternal life.^(K)