Repentance: The Foundation Of Christian Living

“Repentance” is defined as a change of heart and life resulting from a deep conviction of sin as Offense against God (1 Thess. 1:9; Acts 2:38). It is a turning from sin to God (Acts 3:19), with a hatred of the sin (Ps. 97:10; Job 42:5, 6) and a determination to walk in obedience to God’s Word (Ps. 119:59, 106). True repentance will always result in a changed life (Acts 26:20; 2 Cor. 7:10, 11).

The basis for repentance is found in God’s holiness and man’s sinfulness (Isa. 6:3; Rom. 3:23). God’s holiness is His goodness, righteousness, and truth (Exod. 15:11; Neh. 9:32-33; Ps. 145:17). Man’s sinfulness is his rebellion and disobedience to God (Isa. 53:6; 59:2; Rom. 3:10-18, 5:12).

Repentance is required of all who would come to God (Acts 17:30; Acts 20:21; Mk. 1:15). It is the foundation of the Christian life (Lk. 13:3, 5; Acts 26:20).

Repentance is not simply being sorry for sin or trying to turn from it in our own strength ( Ezek. 18:27-28; Matt. 3:8; Acts 8:22-23). True repentance always leads to faith in Christ (Acts 20:21). It is through faith in Christ that we are forgiven and cleansed from all sin (Acts 15:9; Eph. 1:7; Col. 1:14).

Repentance is a gift from God (Acts 11:18; 2 Tim. 2:25). It is part of the process of salvation (Acts 2:38; 3:19; 16:14-15; 17:30; 20:21). It is through repentance that we are transformed by the renewing of our minds (Rom. 12:2).

Repentance is ongoing throughout the Christian life (1 Jn. 1:9; 2 Cor. 7:10). As we grow in our knowledge of Christ, we will realize more and more the sinfulness of our hearts and actions (Phil. 3:13-14). We must daily repent of our sins and turn to Christ for forgivenes