The concept of repentance in the OT is derived primarily from two Hebrew words. The first signifies repentance in the sense of a change of action or purpose. It is mostly used in relation to God and His dealings with people (e.g., 1 Samuel 15:11, 29; Psalms 110:4), with only a few instances referring to human repentance or relenting (e.g., Job 42:6; Jeremiah 8:6; 18:19). Repentance on the part of humans is expressed primarily by a word meaning to "turn" or "return." The same word is used for the concept of conversion, indicating that these two ideas are essentially synonymous in the OT.

The NT concept of repentance likewise is expressed by two words. One signifies repentance in the sense of regret or having remorse (e.g., Matthew 21:30; 27:3). The other NT word for repentance denotes an inward change of thinking, affection, and willful commitment. Although it is similar to the concept of conversion, this term emphasizes the inward change that results in an outward turning from sin toward God, while conversion points particularly to the total change of life's direction (cf. Acts 3:19; 26:20). While repentance may include faith (e.g., Acts 2:38; 11:18; 2 Peter 3:9), it may also be set alongside faith (e.g., Mark 1:15; Acts 20:21). In such instances faith emphasizes the positive side of repentance in the new relationship with God. Like conversion, both the unsaved and sinning believers are called to repent (e.g., Revelation 2:5, 16) (See also CONVERSION; FAITH).

This topic is from the Lockman Foundation.