Repentance is a word often heard in sermons, read in Scripture, and spoken of in Christian conversations. Yet, many misunderstand its meaning, and some even question its necessity. But according to the Word of God, repentance is not optional—it is essential for salvation.
What Is Repentance?
Repentance, in the biblical sense, means more than simply feeling sorry for sin. It is a change of heart and mind that leads to a change in direction—a turning away from sin and turning toward God. In the Greek, the word “repent” (metanoeo) literally means “to change one’s mind.” It involves acknowledging our sin, feeling godly sorrow for it, and making a decision to live differently.
2 Corinthians 7:10 says,
“For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.”
True repentance is more than regret. It is a response to the conviction of the Holy Spirit, and it leads us to surrender our will to the will of God.
Why Is Repentance Required?
Repentance is required for salvation because sin separates us from a holy God. The Bible teaches that all have sinned and come short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). Without repentance, we remain in our sin, under judgment, and spiritually dead.
Jesus Himself began His earthly ministry with a call to repentance.
“Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” (Matthew 3:2)
“Except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.” (Luke 13:3)
These are not mere suggestions; they are divine warnings. Repentance is the pathway by which we acknowledge our need for a Savior and accept the grace He offers.
The Role of Repentance in Salvation
Salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ—but that faith must be accompanied by repentance. When Peter preached on the day of Pentecost, the people were convicted and asked, “What shall we do?” Peter replied:
“Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins…” (Acts 2:38)
Faith and repentance go hand-in-hand. You cannot truly place your trust in Christ without turning away from sin. To believe in Jesus is to believe He came to save you from sin, not leave you in it. When you repent, you acknowledge that sin is wrong, that you have offended God, and that you need His mercy.
The Fruit of Repentance
Repentance isn’t just a one-time event; it’s a continual attitude of the heart. Those who have truly repented will show the fruit of that change.
John the Baptist said:
“Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance.” (Matthew 3:8)
This means our lives will bear evidence of the inner transformation. Though we may stumble, our direction has changed. We no longer walk according to the flesh but desire to walk in the Spirit.
A Loving Call to Repent
God is not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9). Repentance is not a burden—it’s a gift. It is God’s loving call for us to return to Him, to be cleansed, renewed, and restored.
If you have never repented, the Lord is calling you today. He is ready to forgive and receive you with open arms. If you are a believer, keep your heart tender. Confess your sins, turn from them, and walk in the light.
As it says in 1 John 1:9:
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
Conclusion:
Repentance is not an outdated concept—it is the doorway to salvation. Without repentance, there is no remission of sins, and without remission, there is no salvation. But thanks be to God, through Jesus Christ, forgiveness is available to all who repent and believe. Let us not delay. Let us turn to the Lord with all our hearts—today.
“Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out…” (Acts 3:19)