Repentance is a fundamental concept in Christian theology, signifying a profound change of mind and heart, turning away from sin and toward God. It is a key component of the salvation process and is emphasized throughout both the Old and New Testaments.

In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word for repentance is "shuv," which means to turn back or return. This concept is vividly illustrated in the prophetic writings, where God calls His people to return to Him and forsake their sinful ways. For instance, in Ezekiel 18:30-31 , God implores, "Therefore, house of Israel, I will judge each of you according to your ways, declares the Lord GOD. Repent and turn from all your offenses, so that sin will not be your downfall. Cast away from yourselves all the offenses you have committed, and fashion for yourselves a new heart and a new spirit."

In the New Testament, the Greek word "metanoia" is used, which means a change of mind. John the Baptist and Jesus Christ both began their ministries with a call to repentance. In Matthew 3:2 , John the Baptist declares, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near." Similarly, Jesus proclaims in Mark 1:15 , "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe in the gospel!"

Repentance is not merely an emotional response but involves a decisive turning away from sin and a commitment to follow Christ. It is accompanied by faith in Jesus Christ, as seen in Acts 20:21 , where Paul testifies, "I have declared to both Jews and Greeks that they must turn to God in repentance and have faith in our Lord Jesus."

The Apostle Paul further elaborates on the nature of true repentance in 2 Corinthians 7:10 , stating, "Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation without regret, but worldly sorrow brings death." This highlights the transformative power of genuine repentance, which leads to a life aligned with God's will.

Rejection

Rejection, in a biblical context, often refers to the refusal to accept God's message, His messengers, or His Son, Jesus Christ. It is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, illustrating the consequences of turning away from God's truth and grace.

In the Old Testament, the Israelites frequently rejected God's commands and His prophets. Despite witnessing God's mighty works, they often turned to idolatry and disobedience. In 1 Samuel 8:7 , God tells Samuel, "Listen to the voice of the people in all that they say to you. For it is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected Me as their king."

The New Testament continues this theme, particularly in the rejection of Jesus Christ by many of His contemporaries. John 1:11 poignantly states, "He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him." This rejection is not only a historical event but also a spiritual reality that persists whenever individuals refuse to accept Christ as Lord and Savior.

Jesus Himself warned of the consequences of rejecting Him and His message. In Luke 10:16 , He says, "Whoever listens to you listens to Me; whoever rejects you rejects Me; and whoever rejects Me rejects the One who sent Me." This underscores the gravity of rejecting the gospel, as it is ultimately a rejection of God the Father.

The Apostle Paul also addresses the issue of rejection, particularly concerning the Jewish people who did not accept Jesus as the Messiah. In Romans 11:15 , he writes, "For if their rejection brought reconciliation to the world, what will their acceptance be but life from the dead?" Here, Paul highlights the redemptive plan of God, even in the face of rejection, offering hope for eventual restoration.

Rejection, therefore, serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of accepting God's offer of salvation through Jesus Christ, as well as the eternal consequences of turning away from His truth.