Skip to Scriptures about Repentance
Repentance, according to God’s word, involves a genuine change of heart, mind, and direction in response to the conviction of one’s sin and a desire to turn away from it. The Scriptures emphasize that all people have sinned and fallen short of God’s perfect standard.
Repentance is a necessary step towards reconciliation with God. It is not merely a feeling of remorse or regret, but a sincere turning away from sinful behavior and a turning towards God.
Scriptures about Repentance
Acts 3:19
“Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out.”
Luke 13:3
“No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish.”
Matthew 4:17
“From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.'”
Acts 17:30
“The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent.”
Mark 1:15
“The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.”
2 Corinthians 7:10
“For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death.
Acts 2:38
“And Peter said to them, ‘Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.'”
Matthew 3:8
“Bear fruit in keeping with repentance.”
Luke 15:7
“Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.”
1 John 1:9
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
Ezekiel 18:30
“Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his ways, declares the Lord GOD. Repent and turn from all your transgressions, lest iniquity be your ruin.”
Acts 26:20
“But declared first to those in Damascus, then in Jerusalem and throughout all the region of Judea, and also to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, performing deeds in keeping with their repentance.”
2 Peter 3:9
“The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.”
Matthew 4:17
“From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.'”
Matthew 9:13
“Go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.’ For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.”
Acts 5:31
“God exalted him at his right hand as Leader and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins.
Acts 11:18
“When they heard these things they fell silent. And they glorified God, saying, ‘Then to the Gentiles also God has granted repentance that leads to life.'”
2 Chronicles 7:14
“If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”
Luke 24:47
“And that repentance for the forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem.”
Revelation 3:19
“Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline, so be zealous and repent.”
Matthew 11:20
“Then he began to denounce the cities where most of his mighty works had been done, because they did not repent.”
Matthew 21:32
“For John came to you in the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes believed him. And even when you saw it, you did not afterward change your minds and believe him.”
Luke 3:8
“Bear fruits in keeping with repentance. And do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children for Abraham.”
Final Thoughts about Repentance in the Bible
The Bible assures us that when we repent, God is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. True repentance involves acknowledging one’s wrongdoing, confessing it before God, and seeking His forgiveness. It requires humility, honesty, and a willingness to undergo spiritual transformation.
Repentance is not a one-time event but an ongoing process of aligning our lives with God’s will, growing in holiness, and relying on His grace. It is an invitation to experience the abundant mercy, forgiveness, and restoration that God offers through His Son, Jesus Christ. As believers, we are called to repent continually, allowing the Holy Spirit to convict us, guide us, and shape us into the image of Christ.
