Resulting in Reformation of Life

Repentance prompts us to drive sin away.

Repentance does not just change our perception of sin, but it also prompts us to take the necessary steps to drive sin completely away from our lives. The Greek word that is translated, “be converted,” in Acts 3:19 conveys the idea of turning around, or changing the direction of one’s life. Real Biblical repentance must be accompanied by evidence of substantive changes in our behavior (Luke 3:8).

Get rid of all the spiritually negative things.

When we repent, we must turn away from sin. That means that we must get rid of all the spiritually negative things in our lives, which are constantly tempting us to sin. It may mean that we must stop watching certain TV shows and movies, or that we must stop listening to certain songs, or reading certain books. It may mean that we must stop spending the majority of our time with certain friends and family members who are a bad influence on us (1 Corinthians 15:33). It may mean that we must look for a new job, or a new place to live, so we can get away from evil influences (2 Peter 2:8). This may be a painful process, like plucking out an eye, or cutting off a hand (Matthew 5:29-30), but it is necessary to take such drastic measures, in order to secure our salvation.

If possible, make restitution for the sinful things we have done.

When we repent, we must also be willing make restitution for the sinful things we have done, if it is possible to do so. Under the Law of Moses, restitution was required of everyone who stole, or destroyed other people’s property, as well as those who caused injury or death of another person (Deuteronomy 19:21). This is one of the basic principles of repentance. If a man were to steal another man’s car, and then decided that he wanted to repent of what he had done, he would have to give the car back to its rightful owner. If a liar wants to repent of what he has done, then he must tell the truth.

Some people do not want to give up what got them into trouble.

This is really just a matter of common sense, but it is also what stops many people from repenting. In some cases, people simply do not want to give up what got them into trouble in the first place. People who fail to fully repent are certain to go back to their old sinful habits (2 Peter 2:20-22).

“Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord.” – Acts 3:19