Repentance
The word “repentance” means to have a change of mind or will, to change the opinion or purpose with regard to sin. It expresses a change that reversed the effects of one’s own previous state of mind. It involves the act of turning from sin. The word “repent” is found 106 times in the Bible in its various forms. The word “repentance” is found once in the Old Testament, and 25 times in the New Testament. “Repent” is used to refer to sorrow or regret 28 times, and a change of mind or will 25 times, and a change of heart followed by a reformation of life 53 times.
In 2 Corinthians 7:10, Paul says, “For godly sorrow worketh repentance unto salvation, which bringeth no regret; but the sorrow of the world worketh death.” A godly sorrow is produced by faith in God, which leads that person to salvation. Sorrow for sin, is to see sin as God sees it. Godly sorrow motivates a person to desire to repent. It is not just saying that you are sorry, but it is showing you are sorry by repenting or turning from all evil.
There will always be proof of true repentance in one’s life. John the Baptist said in Matthew 3:8, “Bring forth therefore fruit worthy of repentance.” Repentance will result in a new life. The Corinthians repented and forsook their corrupt and sinful practices (I Corinthians 6:9-11). The Apostle Paul changed his life, and preached the Christ whom he once persecuted (Galatians 1:23). The Thessalonians proved repentance by turning from idols to serve the living and true God (I Thessalonians 1:9).
We as Christians must not be careless about sin, but show fruits worthy of repentance. If you are not a Christian, you must repent of your sins and be obedient to Christ by being baptized for the remission of your sins (Acts 2:38).
Keith Hinds