Topical Bible: Repentance: Not to be Repented of

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Repentance is a central theme in Christian theology, representing a transformative change of heart and mind that leads to a turning away from sin and a turning toward God. The concept of "repentance not to be repented of" is derived from 2 Corinthians 7:10, which states, "Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation without regret, but worldly sorrow brings death" . This passage highlights the distinction between true, godly repentance and mere worldly sorrow.

Godly Sorrow and True Repentance

Godly sorrow is characterized by a deep, heartfelt conviction of sin and a sincere desire to change. It is not merely an emotional response but a profound recognition of one's sinfulness and the need for God's grace. This type of sorrow leads to repentance that is genuine and lasting, resulting in a transformation of character and behavior. The Apostle Paul emphasizes that such repentance leads to salvation and is "without regret," meaning it is a change that one will not wish to undo.

Worldly Sorrow and Its Consequences

In contrast, worldly sorrow is superficial and self-centered. It may arise from the consequences of sin or the fear of punishment rather than a true understanding of one's offense against God. This type of sorrow does not lead to genuine repentance or change but rather results in spiritual death. Worldly sorrow is often marked by regret over the loss of worldly pleasures or status rather than a desire to restore one's relationship with God.

Biblical Examples of Repentance

The Bible provides numerous examples of individuals who experienced godly sorrow and true repentance. King David, after his sin with Bathsheba, expressed deep remorse and sought God's forgiveness, as recorded in Psalm 51. His repentance was genuine, leading to restoration and a renewed relationship with God. Similarly, the prodigal son in Jesus' parable (Luke 15:11-32) demonstrates true repentance by recognizing his sin, returning to his father, and seeking forgiveness.

The Role of Repentance in Salvation

Repentance is an essential component of the Christian doctrine of salvation. It is the means by which individuals acknowledge their sinfulness and turn to Christ for forgiveness and redemption. Acts 3:19 exhorts believers, "Repent, then, and turn back, so that your sins may be wiped away" . This turning away from sin and toward God is a prerequisite for receiving the grace and mercy offered through Jesus Christ.

The Ongoing Nature of Repentance

While initial repentance is necessary for salvation, the Christian life is marked by ongoing repentance. Believers are called to continually examine their lives, confess their sins, and seek God's forgiveness. This ongoing process of repentance is a sign of spiritual growth and maturity, as it reflects a continual desire to align one's life with God's will.

Repentance and the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in the process of repentance. It is the Spirit who convicts individuals of their sin and draws them to repentance. John 16:8 states, "When He comes, He will convict the world regarding sin and righteousness and judgment" . The Spirit's work in the heart of the believer leads to a deeper understanding of sin and a greater desire for holiness.

In summary, repentance that is "not to be repented of" is a profound and lasting change brought about by godly sorrow. It is a vital aspect of the Christian faith, leading to salvation and a transformed life in Christ.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Corinthians 7:10
For godly sorrow works repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world works death.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Greek

278. ametameletos -- not repented of
... without regret. From a (as a negative particle) and a presumed derivative of
metamellomai; irrevocable -- without repentance, not to be repented of. see GREEK ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/278.htm - 7k

Library

For Godly Sorrow Worketh Repentance to Salvation, not to be ...
... into tears. Here you see the cause of all that. She truly repented of these
things, with a repentance not to be repented of. O, how ...
/.../lectures to professing christians/for godly sorrow worketh repentance.htm

On First and Second Repentance.
... a second repentance; so that should any one be tempted after his calling, overcome
by force and fraud, he may receive still a repentance not to be repented of. ...
/.../clement/the stromata or miscellanies/chapter xiii on first and second.htm

Instances of God's Repentance, and Notably in the Case of the ...
... repented of. Certainly not, [3010] my reply is; God will never repent of an act
of justice. And it now remains that we should understand what God's repentance ...
/.../the five books against marcion/chapter xxiv instances of gods repentance.htm

The Power of Sorrow.
... This is the characteristic of the divine sorrow, that it is a repentance "not repented
of;" no transient, short-lived resolutions, but sustained resolve. ...
/.../robertson/sermons preached at brighton/viii the power of sorrow.htm

True Repentance
... Every work of ours shall come into judgment, unless it be repented of, and put
away by the only true repentance"not doing the thing any more. ...
/.../kingsley/the good news of god/sermon xii true repentance.htm

Repentance and Restitution.
... You might think that the king of Egypt repented when God sent the terrible plagues
upon him and his land. But it was not repentance at all. ...
/.../the way to god and how to find it/chapter vi repentance and restitution.htm

Threefold Repentance
... a contrite heart Thou wilt not despise,' was learned by these heathens. We need
it no less. Nineveh repented on a peradventure that their repentance might avail ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture a/threefold repentance.htm

Repentance
... Now, if you find that yours is a counterfeit repentance, and you have
not repented aright, mend what you have done amiss. As in ...
//christianbookshelf.org/watson/the ten commandments/4 2 repentance.htm

Repentance and Impenitence.
... or sorrow; as in Matthew 21:29, "He answered and said, I will not; but afterwards
he repented and went." It is used to represent the repentance of Judas, which ...
/.../finney/systematic theology/lecture xxxiv repentance and impenitence.htm

Confession
... If we have not experienced that repentance which is not to be repented of, and have
not with true humiliation of soul and brokenness of spirit confessed our ...
//christianbookshelf.org/white/steps to christ/chapter 4 confession.htm