So, this week I get a little help from M. G. Easton. The Eastons' Bible Dictionary defines repentance as this:
There are three Greek words used in the New Testament to denote repentance.
- The verb metamelomai is used of a change of mind, such as to produce regret or even remorse on account of sin, but not necessarily a change of heart. This word is used with reference to the repentance of Judas (Mat_27:3).
- Metanoeo, meaning to change one's mind and purpose, as the result of after knowledge.
- This verb, with the cognate noun metanoia, is used of true repentance, a change of mind and purpose and life, to which remission of sin is promised.
Evangelical repentance consists of (1) a true sense of one's own guilt and sinfulness; (2) an apprehension of God's mercy in Christ; (3) an actual hatred of sin (Psa 119:128; Job 42:5, Job 42:6; 2Cor 7:10) and turning from it to God; and (4) a persistent endeavor after a holy life in a walking with God in the way of his commandments.
The true penitent is conscious of guilt (Psa 51:4, Psa 51:9), of pollution (Psa 51:5, Psa 51:7, Psa 51:10), and of helplessness (Psa 51:11; Psa 109:21, Psa 109:22). Thus he apprehends himself to be just what God has always seen him to be and declares him to be. But repentance comprehends not only such a sense of sin, but also an apprehension of mercy, without which there can be no true repentance (Psa 51:1; Psa 130:4).
True Christian repentance is when you have identified your sinfulness before God, you have an understanding that God is merciful, a disgust for your sin, and a desire to pursue God through a relationship with Jesus Christ.
Daily In Christ – Salvation Sunday Challenge
If you haven’t done so in your life, now would be a good time to REPENT!
I pray today that you can come to know Jesus as your Lord and Savior.
Blessings,
Keith
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