Understanding Repentance

Repentance is more than just feeling remorseful; it is a transformative process that is clearly outlined in the Bible. In Acts 3:19 we read, 'Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.' This verse, along with others, outlines a four-step process of repentance. Firstly, we must acknowledge our sins, admitting our wrongdoings against God's laws. Second, we must feel genuine sorrow for our actions. Third, we are called to turn away from our sinful behaviors. Lastly, we turn to God, seeking His forgiveness and guidance to change our lives. In 2 Corinthians 7:10, the Apostle Paul differentiates between godly sorrow, which leads to salvation, and worldly sorrow, which leads to death, urging us to aim for the former. Ezekiel 18:21-22 further assures us that if we turn from our wicked ways, we will live and not die, for our past sins will not be remembered against us.