In the journey toward salvation, the steps of repentance and confession are not mere rituals or optional acts—they are essential and beautiful expressions of a heart turning fully to God. They are the bridges that carry us from sin and separation to grace and reconciliation, leading us to the gift of eternal life in Christ Jesus.
What is Biblical Repentance?
Repentance is far more than just feeling sorry for our sins. True repentance is a deep, godly sorrow that compels us to change. It is a complete turning away from sin and a turning toward God. The Greek word for repentance, metanoia, literally means “a change of mind.” This change of mind leads to a change of heart and a change of life.
“Godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.” — 2 Corinthians 7:10
When Peter preached on the Day of Pentecost, the people, convicted by the truth that they had crucified the Son of God, asked,
“Men and brethren, what shall we do?”
Peter’s reply was direct:
“Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins.” — Acts 2:38
God desires that all come to repentance.
“The Lord is not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” — 2 Peter 3:9
Repentance is not merely a requirement; it is an act of love—responding to the goodness of God.
“The goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance.” — Romans 2:4
The Power of Confession
Confession is the outward acknowledgment of an inward conviction. When we confess, we are proclaiming what we believe in our hearts—that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and that He is Lord.
“That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” — Romans 10:9
In Acts 8, when the Ethiopian eunuch heard Philip preach Jesus, he responded:
“See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized?”
Philip answered,
“If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest.”
And the eunuch confessed:
“I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.” — Acts 8:36-37
Confession is the public witness of personal faith, standing unashamed of Jesus, who was unashamed of us.
The Connection to Salvation
Salvation is not a mystery. God, in His wisdom, has laid out the steps plainly:
- Hear the Word (Romans 10:17)
- Believe in Jesus (Mark 16:16)
- Repent of sins (Luke 13:3)
- Confess faith in Christ (Romans 10:9-10)
- Be baptized for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38)
- Live faithfully until death (Revelation 2:10)
Notice how repentance and confession are crucial steps between belief and baptism. They are the evidence of a heart fully surrendered to God.
A Loving Invitation
God is still inviting sinners today. The parable of the prodigal son reminds us that the Father is watching and waiting for His lost children to return.
“When he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.” — Luke 15:20
If you have not yet obeyed the Gospel, do not delay. Repent of your sins, confess Jesus as the Son of God, and be baptized for the remission of sins. The joy of salvation and the peace of reconciliation await you.
Reflection Questions
Take a moment to quietly reflect on these:
- Have I truly experienced godly sorrow that leads to repentance, or have I only felt worldly regret?
- What sins am I still holding onto that I need to fully turn away from?
- Am I ready to confess Jesus openly and without shame?
- How does understanding repentance and confession change the way I view my relationship with God?
- If I have once obeyed the Gospel but have drifted away, what is stopping me from repenting and returning today?