What is repentance?

[dodgerfan2002]

Some Christian groups say that repentance comes from the greek word Metanoia, which means a change of mind. They say that we can just change the way we think about God, sin, etc. and that's repenting. They say that once you have acknowledged that you are a sinner and in need of a Savior, you have already repented.

Other groups (like Ray comfort's ministry and those who use the ten commandments to evangelize) say that you have to turn away from your sin. You have to forsake all of your sins to go to heaven.

Which meaning of repentance is correct?

 

[kenan]

I'm not sure of the root of the word, but basically repentance means 'to turn'. So you not only have to acknowledge your sins, but you have to make a conscious effort not to commit them again.

Hebrews 10:26 - "For if we sin deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sin".

The Lord knows that mankind is sinful, and He will readily help anyone to break free of their sin if they simply ask Him.