* What is the biblical definition of repentance?

Okay, here’s the expanded question:
What is the biblical definition of repentance, considering both Old and New Testament perspectives? I’m interested in a comprehensive understanding that goes beyond simply saying “feeling sorry for sins.” How does repentance relate to acknowledging sin, feeling remorse, confessing wrongdoing, turning away from sin, and ultimately, experiencing a change in behavior and attitude towards God and sin? Are there different nuances of repentance presented in the scriptures, and how do they connect to salvation and the overall concept of discipleship? What specific Hebrew and Greek words are used to describe repentance and what are their root meanings and implications?

Answer

The biblical definition of repentance encompasses a profound and multifaceted transformation, involving a change of mind, heart, and actions, turning away from sin and toward God. It’s not merely regret, but a fundamental shift in one’s orientation.

Key Elements:

1. Change of Mind (Metanoia): The Greek word for repentance, metanoia, literally means "a change of mind." This involves recognizing and acknowledging that one’s past thoughts, values, and worldview were flawed, leading to sin. It includes understanding the gravity of sin against a holy God. This intellectual acknowledgment is a crucial first step.

2. Change of Heart (Contrition and Sorrow): True repentance goes beyond intellectual assent. It involves genuine sorrow and contrition for sin. 2 Corinthians 7:10 states, "For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death." This godly sorrow arises from a recognition of the offense against God and a deep regret for the harm caused by sin. It is not merely feeling sorry for the consequences of sin, but sorrow for the sin itself.

3. Turning Away from Sin (Abandonment): Repentance necessitates a conscious decision to turn away from sinful actions, habits, and lifestyles. This involves actively abandoning those behaviors that are contrary to God’s will. Proverbs 28:13 says, "Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy." Turning away from sin is not merely ceasing to commit specific acts, but also changing the desires and motivations that led to those actions.

4. Turning Toward God (Faith and Obedience): Repentance is not simply turning away from something, but also turning toward something – namely, God. This turning involves placing one’s faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and committing to following His teachings and commands. It’s a deliberate act of entrusting oneself to God’s grace and seeking to live a life that is pleasing to Him. This includes actively pursuing righteousness, seeking God’s will, and obeying His commandments.

5. Confession: Confessing sins to God is a vital aspect of repentance. 1 John 1:9 states, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." Confession involves acknowledging one’s sins specifically and honestly before God, taking responsibility for one’s actions, and seeking His forgiveness.

6. Restitution (Where Possible): In some cases, repentance may also involve making restitution for the harm caused by one’s sins. This means seeking to repair the damage done to others as a result of one’s actions, whether through financial compensation, apologies, or other acts of reconciliation.

Important Considerations:

• God’s Initiative: While repentance is a human act, it is ultimately enabled by God’s grace and the work of the Holy Spirit. It is God who draws people to Himself and grants them the ability to turn away from sin. Acts 5:31 states that Jesus was exalted "to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins."
• Ongoing Process: Repentance is not a one-time event, but an ongoing process in the life of a believer. As Christians grow in their faith, they will continue to recognize areas where they need to turn away from sin and turn toward God.
• Fruit of Repentance: True repentance will be evidenced by a changed life. Jesus spoke of "fruit in keeping with repentance" (Matthew 3:8), indicating that genuine repentance will produce tangible changes in one’s behavior and attitudes. These fruits might include acts of love, service, humility, and obedience.
• Relationship to Forgiveness: Repentance is intrinsically linked to forgiveness. God promises to forgive those who genuinely repent of their sins and turn to Him in faith.
• Not a Work for Salvation: Repentance is a necessary response to God’s grace, but it is not a work that earns salvation. Salvation is received by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Repentance is the evidence of a heart transformed by grace, not a prerequisite for it.

In summary, biblical repentance is a transformative process that involves a change of mind, heart, and actions, turning away from sin and toward God, resulting in a changed life that reflects God’s character and will. It is a necessary response to God’s grace and a vital aspect of the Christian life.