The Bible describes repentance as a work of the Spirit, an inward transformation essential for salvation, and both a gift from God and a calling to all humanity.
Repentance in the Bible encompasses both inward and outward aspects. Inward repentance is a sovereign work of the Holy Spirit, producing godly sorrow that leads to genuine change. As stated in 2 Corinthians 7:10, this kind of sorrow is not to be repented of, demonstrating how true repentance is a gift from God’s grace. Additionally, the Scriptures affirm that all who are elect will ultimately experience this inward transformation, a promise grounded in God’s eternal election (Acts 5:31).
Outward or legal repentance, however, is a call upon every person to turn from sin and pursue righteousness, characterized by a visible change in behavior. John the Baptist declared the need for repentance for the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 3:2). The importance of this concept lies in the necessary response of every individual to the call of God and the acknowledgment of their sinful state, which holds eternal implications (Luke 13:3-5). Through both forms of repentance, God’s sovereignty is affirmed, as He commands all men everywhere to repent (Acts 17:30).
Scripture References:
2 Corinthians 7:10, Acts 5:31, Matthew 3:2, Luke 13:3-5, Acts 17:30, Luke 13:3, Luke 15:7, Acts 11:18, Ephesians 2:8-9, Hebrews 12:17, Matthew 9:13, Acts 8:1-3, Romans 10:9-10, Matthew 4:17, Malachi 2:13, Romans 3:25-26, Hosea 14:1-2, Luke 5:32, Acts 3:19, Job 42:6, Acts 26:15-20, Jeremiah 31:18-19, Romans 3:18, Hebrews 8:10, 1 John 1:9, Acts 2:38, Mark 1:15, Psalm 51:1-4, Acts 20:20-21, Romans 2:4, Luke 15:14-20, Luke 18:13, Psalm 51:4, 2 Timothy 2:25
Commentary