Metanoia: The meaning of Biblical repentance
Repentance in the New Testament uses the Greek word metanoia (μετανοέω). It is an intense desire that goes with a radical decision to turn away from sin and unto Christ. In the Old Testament, repentance is nacham which means to feel sorry for sin.
Metanoia is a compound word from the Greek meta- + noein (Metanoein; μετάνοια), according to Mirriam-Webster. It is also an afterthought best described as “conversion” and “reformation.”
Paul Washer describes metanoia as a verb of motion and mental activity. For J. I. Packer, repentance is a “fruit of faith,” inseparable from “saving faith.” It is turning to Christ as Lord and Savior.
In short, metanoia is not just saying sorry, nor is it penance, but it is a radical change of mind toward choosing or deciding.
It goes with a radical decision to turn away from sin & unto Christ.
1. Metanoia seeks the mind of Christ
Before one’s conversion through Christ, a sinner’s mind is hostile toward God. It refuses to submit (Romans 1:21; 8:7). When we receive Christ, our soul regenerates. The light of Jesus illuminates our minds, and we see things of God.
Luke 5:32
“I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.“
2. Metanoia is our response to God’s love
We pursue a holy and pleasing life in response to God’s love. We hate what God hates and love what God loves. As a result, our minds and heart are excited to pursue the “mind of Christ.” (1 Cor. 2:16)
Romans 12:2
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing, you may discern what the will of God is, what is right and acceptable and perfect.
DID GOD CHOOSE ME, OR DID I CHOOSE HIM?
3. Metanoia is a daily
The “Gospel of ABC” can be shallow when repentance is set aside as a one-time experience. Metanoia is a continuing activity that begins with the mind, the reason we must desire the “mind of Christ.” We will always be a work in progress on earth.
Philippians 1:6
“Be confident that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.“
MEANING OF REPENTANCE IN THE BIBLE.
4. We “Bear Fruit” as evidence of faith and repentance
The proof of faith is we continue to grow in repentance. You cannot bear fruit without Jesus. Likewise, a sinful lifestyle leads to rotten fruit. Our part is to respond to God’s call to bear fruit and live life to the fullest.
Acts 2:28
“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.“
I WANT TO BEAR FRUIT IN CHRIST.
WE HATE WHAT GOD HATES AND LOVE WHAT GOD LOVES.
5. Don’t expect a perfect “one-time” repentance
Porn, transgender, gay lifestyle, homosexual or lesbian relationships, and adultery have no place in Christian life. We must repent of it (change our minds) when it occurs in our minds. Being tempted is not yet a sin.
Therefore, repentance is not one time experience but a born-again journey. Ask Jesus to give you a heart that seeks “holiness and fear God.” Holy fear is inspired by love and reverence for Jesus and His sacrifice.
Hebrews 10:26
“For if we go on sinning willfully after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins…“
WHY PASTORS MUST PREACH REPENTANCE.
6. Metanoia and faith go together
Repentance is both a gift and a command that comes with faith. Jesus spoke about repentance as a requirement for salvation. In Martin Luther’s 95 Thesis, he began with the call of Jesus to a “lifetime of repentance.” (Matt. 4:17)
Romans 2:4
“… God’s kindness is intended to lead us to repentance.“
