Repentance is a fundamental concept in Christian theology, signifying a profound change of mind and heart that leads to a transformation of life. It involves turning away from sin and turning toward God, seeking His forgiveness and striving to live in accordance with His will. The Greek word for repentance, "metanoia," literally means a change of mind, but it encompasses a complete reorientation of one's life.

In the Old Testament, repentance is often associated with the Hebrew word "shuv," meaning to return or turn back. The prophets frequently called the people of Israel to repentance, urging them to return to the Lord and abandon their sinful ways. For example, in Joel 2:12-13 , the Lord declares, "Even now," declares the LORD, "return to Me with all your heart, with fasting, weeping, and mourning. Rend your hearts and not your garments. Return to the LORD your God, for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion."

In the New Testament, John the Baptist and Jesus both began their ministries with a call to repentance. John the Baptist proclaimed, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near" (Matthew 3:2). Similarly, Jesus preached, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near" (Matthew 4:17). Repentance is presented as an essential response to the coming of God's kingdom and the message of the Gospel.

The Apostle Peter, in his sermon on the day of Pentecost, emphasized the necessity of repentance for salvation: "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" (Acts 2:38). Repentance is thus closely linked with faith in Christ and the reception of the Holy Spirit.

Repentance is not merely a one-time event but a continual process in the life of a believer. It involves ongoing self-examination, confession of sins, and a commitment to spiritual growth and holiness. The Apostle Paul speaks of godly sorrow that leads to repentance, which brings salvation and leaves no regret (2 Corinthians 7:10).

Purity

Purity, in the biblical context, refers to the state of being free from sin, moral corruption, and defilement. It encompasses both inner purity of heart and outward purity of conduct. Purity is a key attribute of God's character and is expected of His people as they seek to live in a manner that reflects His holiness.

In the Old Testament, purity is often associated with ceremonial cleanliness and the observance of the Law. The Israelites were given specific instructions on maintaining purity in their worship and daily lives. However, the prophets also emphasized the importance of inner purity, as seen in Psalm 51:10 , where David prays, "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me."

In the New Testament, Jesus teaches that purity is a matter of the heart. In the Sermon on the Mount, He declares, "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God" (Matthew 5:8). Jesus challenges the Pharisees' focus on external rituals by emphasizing that true purity comes from within, as He states, "For from within the heart of men come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery" (Mark 7:21).

The Apostle Paul exhorts believers to pursue purity in their thoughts and actions. In Philippians 4:8 , he writes, "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think on these things." Purity is also linked with sanctification, as believers are called to be set apart for God's purposes.

Purity is not only a personal pursuit but also a communal responsibility within the body of Christ. The church is called to maintain purity in doctrine and practice, as Paul instructs Timothy, "Keep yourself pure" (1 Timothy 5:22). The pursuit of purity is empowered by the Holy Spirit, who works within believers to conform them to the image of Christ.