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 grace. The Greek word for repentance, "metanoia," implies a complete change of direction in 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 covenantal relationship with God. For instance, in Joel 2:12-13 , the Lord calls His people to repentance: "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 Christ 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 emphasized repentance as essential for entering the kingdom of God: "From that time on Jesus began to preach, 'Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near'" (Matthew 4:17).

Repentance is not merely an emotional response but involves a conscious decision to turn away from sin and align one's life with God's will. It is accompanied by faith in Jesus Christ, as seen in Acts 20:21 : "I have testified to both Jews and Greeks about repentance to God and faith in our Lord Jesus."

The Apostle Paul also underscores the importance of repentance in the life of a believer. In 2 Corinthians 7:10 , he writes, "Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation without regret, but worldly sorrow brings death." This passage highlights the distinction between genuine repentance, which leads to spiritual renewal and salvation, and mere regret, which lacks the transformative power of true repentance.

Remembrance

Remembrance in the biblical context refers to the act of recalling and reflecting upon God's past actions, promises, and faithfulness. It serves as a means of strengthening faith, encouraging obedience, and fostering a deeper relationship with God.

In the Old Testament, remembrance is often linked to the covenantal relationship between God and His people. The Israelites were frequently instructed to remember God's mighty deeds, such as the deliverance from Egypt. In Deuteronomy 8:2 , Moses reminds the Israelites, "Remember that the LORD your God led you all the way in the wilderness these forty years, to humble and test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep His commandments."

The practice of remembrance is also evident in the observance of feasts and rituals. The Passover, for example, is a memorial of God's deliverance of Israel from slavery in Egypt. Exodus 12:14 states, "This day is to be a memorial for you, and you are to celebrate it as a feast to the LORD. You are to celebrate it as a perpetual statute for the generations to come."

In the New Testament, Jesus institutes the Lord's Supper as an act of remembrance. During the Last Supper, He instructs His disciples, "Do this in remembrance of Me" (Luke 22:19). This sacrament serves as a continual reminder of Christ's sacrificial death and the new covenant established through His blood.

Remembrance is not only a call to recall past events but also an invitation to live in light of God's faithfulness. In 2 Peter 1:12-13 , the Apostle Peter emphasizes the importance of remembrance in the life of believers: "Therefore I will always remind you of these things, even though you know them and are established in the truth you now have. I think it is right to refresh your memory as long as I live in the tent of my body."

Through remembrance, believers are encouraged to trust in God's promises, remain steadfast in their faith, and live in obedience to His Word.