FAQ ID # 39 - What is repentance?

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FAQ ID # 39

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What is repentance?

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The word translated repentance signifies to change one's mind or purpose for the better. The term implies a change of attitude towards sin which results in a change from wrong to right. Paul gives the proper motivation for repentance saying, "For godly sorrow worketh repentance unto salvation" (2 Cor. 7:10). Godly sorrow is the realization that we have sinned against God. Such a realization of God's displeasure produces within us a contrite heart which desires to turn from iniquity to the righteousness of God.
Jesus illustrates true repentance in a parable recorded in Matthew 21:28-31. In this story two sons are told to go work in the vineyard by their father. One flatly refuses, but afterwards repents and goes to work. The other says: "I go sir," but does not go. Jesus shows that repentance requires honesty, for you can not be a pretender and repent. True repentance requires the acknowledgment of sin followed by obedience to the will of God.
Since "all men sin a fall short of the glory of God" (Rom. 3:23), all men need to repent of their sin. Jesus said, "Except ye repent, ye shall all in like manner perish" (Luke 13:3). And Peter said that God "is not wishing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance" (2 Peter 3:9). May we all keep our conscience sensitive so that sin can be perceived and the appropriate change can be accomplished.

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