The concept of repentance is mentioned several times in the Bible. Here are a few key passages:
- Old Testament:
- Ezekiel 18:30 – Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his ways, saith the Lord GOD. Repent, and turn yourselves from all your transgressions; so iniquity shall not be your ruin.
- Isaiah 55:7 -Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.
- New Testament:
- Acts 3:19 -Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord
- Luke 15:7 – I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.
- Matthew 4:17 -From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
What does the Bible teach us about repentance?
In the Bible, repentance is a foundational concept that reflects a profound change of heart and mind regarding sin and God. It involves turning away from sins and turning back to God, embracing His ways over our own. This transformation is not just about stopping wrong actions but also about changing one’s thoughts and attitudes toward what is sinful.
In the Old Testament, God’s call for repentance is clear and forceful. Ezekiel 18:30 encourages everyone to «Repent, and turn yourselves from all your transgressions; so iniquity shall not be your ruin.» This verse shows that repentance is deeply connected to survival and blessing—it’s about avoiding destruction that comes from continued sinning. Similarly, Isaiah 55:7 offers a promise of mercy and pardon from God to those who forsake their wicked ways and thoughts. It highlights God’s readiness to forgive and restore those who come back to Him sincerely.
The New Testament continues and expands on the theme of repentance, especially with the teachings of Jesus and the early apostles. For example, when Jesus began His ministry, one of His first messages was, «Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand» (Matthew 4:17). This call to repentance is tied directly to the nearness of God’s kingdom, suggesting that repentance is essential to be part of God’s rule and His blessings.
The Acts of the Apostles further emphasizes repentance with Peter’s exhortation in Acts 3:19, «Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out.» Here, repentance is linked with conversion—a thorough turning around to embrace a new way of life under God. It’s about a clean slate, where past sins are wiped out completely because of God’s forgiveness.
Moreover, Luke 15:7 illustrates the joy in heaven over one sinner who repents. This passage is particularly touching because it reveals God’s heart and the value He places on a single person deciding to return to Him. It underscores that repentance is not only a personal moment of transformation but also a celestial celebration.