The concept of sin is based squarely upon the understanding of the holiness of God. This holy God based both promises and commands given to man on His divine attributes. As the Sovereign, God possesses all authority. Any violation of that will on the part of man results in separation from Him (Isa. 59:1- 2). The same God, however, is also one of love, mercy, and grace. Through His mercy, He extends grace in the form of “repentance.”
The Greek word translated as “repent” or “repentance” is “metanoeo.” “Repentance” is a word that has often been misunderstood. Some simply see it as regret or sorrow. They are sorry that they have sinned but, at that point, have not yet done anything to deal with the sin and its resulting separation. It is a word that speaks of a change of the mind that results in a change of attitude and action. It is also a word that involves, and is initiated by, regret and sorrow. Thus, repentance is a decision on the part of sinful man, preceded by sorrow, and is manifested by a changed life. There are many biblical examples of those who have repented of their sins than space will allow. Let us examine just a few.
First, we see the Ninevites to whom Jonah proclaimed God’s message (Jon. 1-3; Matt. 12:41). As Gentiles, their sin was a violation of Patriarchal Law. Upon hearing God’s message proclaimed by Jonah, they believed God (Jon. 3:5) and took the steps needed to manifest repentance. That they repented is obvious as God relented from the penalty due the unrepentant. Their penitence was manifested by a change in attitude (sack cloth reflecting humility) and a sense of self-denial (fasting). They moved from idolatry to true worship (Jon. 3:8). Thus, only the results of penitence are seen, but the internal motivation and change is implied due to the outcome.
A second example is seen in the parable of the prodigal son (Lk. 15:10-24). He left home and “wasted his possessions with prodigal (wasteful) living.” The text indicates that he “came to himself ” (awareness) and made the decision to return home in a subdued state rather than an exalted one (pride replaced with humility). Again, we see recognition of sin, contrition, and turning back to the previous relationship. Though he did not earn or deserve it, he was blessed by a loving father upon his return.
A final example is seen in the powerful conversion recorded in Acts 2. Peter’s sermon served the purpose of convicting men of their sinful actions. Upon learning and recognizing that they had sinned, cut to the heart, the men asked the most important of questions, “Men and brethren, what shall we do (Acts 2:37)? The answer required their repentance and being baptized for the remission of their sins (Acts 2:38). Note that we see the same process as in the previous two examples. They became aware of their sins, regretted that behavior (implied in their actions), and turned to God in obeying what they were instructed to do (Acts 2:41).
How do we know if we have repented of the sin which separates us from God? The simple answer is that we will know if we have completed the process determined by God as revealed in Scripture. Honestly, only the individual and God will fully know when true repentance has occurred. People can make apparent changes in behavior, but we can’t read minds. We can tell people what they want to hear and show them what they want to see. However, unless the heart is truly changed, the rest is just “window dressing.” We will know ourselves when we follow God’s plan that involves and requires penitence.
One cannot truly imagine how life would be if God did not provide the opportunity for repentance. We look at sin as revealed in the Bible and tremble at what it would be like if we had no hope of recovery. In Galatians 5:19-23 we see a representative list of sins under the category of “works of the flesh.” All of these, and many more, will result in failure to inherit the kingdom of God (Gal. 5:21). But, there is good news! Our benevolent God loved us enough to provide a way back when we depart from Him. That His love continues is seen in our opportunity of repentance. May we choose to avail ourselves of such love, mercy, and grace when we sin, as we all have and will do so again (Rom. 3:23). Our sorrow for doing so will begin the process of laying hold of what God has provided, and receive what He has promised — forgiveness of sin.
-Pat McIntosh