The doctrine of repentance is taught throughout the New Testament. No one can be regenerated without repentance. Repentance cannot confer salvation or merit it in any way, but it does bring a person to a place where the forgiving grace of God can meet him. So, what does true repentance involve?
A Change of Mind
(Matthew 21:28-29;
Luke 15:17-18; Acts 2:38)
Repent (metanoeo) means, “a change of mind.” Repentance involves a change of mind – waking up to reality, seeing things as they really are, and recognizing the error of one’s ways – resulting in a change of action.
Godly Sorrow for Sin
(Psalm 38:18; Luke
10:13; 18:9-14)
There is another Greek word (metamelomai) that means to have remorse or regret. Repentance is associated with renewing the mind (Romans 12:2). When you know the truth, then, truth makes you free as you act on it (John 8:32; cf., 2 Corinthians 7:9-10).
Confession of Sin
(Luke 15:18-21; 18:13;
James 5:16; 1 John 1:9)
Confession is the acknowledging of sin. It means, “admitting oneself guilty of what one is accused of” (Vine’s 224). A person must humbly admit his or her need for God’s forgiveness and acknowledge one’s sinful actions. If one is not willing to confess sins, the love for this world reigns supreme in that person’s heart (Matthew 13:22). Confession is a command (James 5:16). God promises forgiveness to those who confess their sins (1 John 1:9).
Forsaking of Sin
(Proverbs 28:13; Isaiah 55:7;
Matthew 5:29, 30; John 8:11)
Repentance includes forsaking old patterns, habits, priorities and all things that have controlled you (gods). The Bible stresses both the importance of confessing (James 5:16) and of forsaking sin (Ezekiel 18:31; Luke 14:27; Romans 13:12; Ephesians 4:22).
Turning to God as Savior and Lord
(Acts 26:18; 1 Thessalonians 1:9; Luke 15:7)
We must turn from sins that we confess. Repentance is ceasing from sin. Once one has admitted wrong, he or she must resolve never again to return to it. Repentance involves a change of mind, heart, will, desire, action and intent. It is a total and complete reversal of lifestyle and direction. Repentance demands leaving unrighteousness and embracing righteousness.
In conclusion, the students of an old and beloved teacher asked him when they should repent of their sins. He answered, “You should repent of all your sins one day before you die!” “But we do not know when we will die,” said the students. To which the old teacher replied, “Then repent today!”
