Biblical Repentance: Finding Forgiveness and PeaceNäide

What does repentance really mean?

Many understand the term repentance to mean “a turning from sin.” Regretting sin and turning from it is related to repentance, but it is not the precise or complete meaning of the word. True biblical repentance goes beyond remorse, regret, or feeling bad about one’s sin. It involves more than merely turning away from sin.

In the Bible, the word repents means “to change one’s mind.” The Bible also tells us that true repentance will result in a change of actions. Paul summarizes his ministry, “I preached that they should repent and turn to God and demonstrate their repentance by their deeds.” The full biblical definition of repentance is a change of mind that results in a change of action.

What, then, is the connection between repentance and salvation? The book of Acts especially focuses on repentance regarding salvation. In relation to salvation, to repent is to change your mind regarding sin and Jesus Christ. In Peter’s sermon on the day of Pentecost, he concludes with a call for the people to repent. Peter is calling the people who rejected Jesus to change their minds about that sin and change their minds about Christ Himself, recognizing that He is indeed “Lord and Christ.” Peter calls the people to change their minds, abhor their past rejection of Christ, and embrace faith in Him as both Messiah and Savior.

Heavenly Father, we are very thankful for the Grace you offer us through Jesus Christ. Change my heart and mind and give me the courage to turn from my sinful ways. Give me the Faith to put my trust fully in Jesus to save me. I pray this in the precious name of Jesus, Amen.