Repentance: A Requirement for Entrance into the Kingdom of God
“Now in those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”” (Matthew 3:1-2)
“Now after John had been taken into custody, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of God, and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.”” (Mark 1:14-15)
“From that time Jesus began to preach and say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”” (Matthew 4:17)
Introduction: The Call to Repentance
The message of repentance is central to the teachings of John the Baptist and Jesus Christ, as seen in Matthew 3:1-2, Mark 1:14-15, and Matthew 4:17. These passages emphasize that repentance is not merely an optional response but a divine requirement for entering the Kingdom of God. John the Baptist proclaimed, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 3:2), and Jesus echoed this message, beginning His ministry with the same call (Matthew 4:17). This essay explores the biblical concept of repentance by examining its linguistic roots, theological significance, and connection to Jesus as the Messiah and King. It also highlights how repentance reveals God’s redemptive plan and points to Christ’s eternal reign.
Etymology and Meaning of “Repent”
The Greek word for “repent” used in these passages is metanoeō (Strong’s G3340). Etymologically, metanoeō combines meta (change) and noeō (mind or understanding), signifying a transformative change in one’s mindset and direction. It implies turning away from sin and toward God with a renewed purpose. This term transcends mere regret or sorrow for wrongdoing; it entails a decisive redirection of life toward obedience to God’s will.
In Hebrew thought, repentance aligns with the term shuv, meaning “to turn back” or “return” (Strong’s H7725). Both terms emphasize an active response—leaving behind sin and embracing God’s righteous path. Jesus’ use of metanoeō in Matthew 4:17 underscores this profound shift in allegiance, calling individuals to prepare their hearts for the arrival of God’s kingdom.
Theological Significance of Repentance
Repentance as Preparation for the Kingdom
The call to repent is intrinsically tied to the nearness of God’s kingdom. John the Baptist prepared the way for Jesus by urging people to repent, symbolizing their readiness to receive the Messiah (Matthew 3:1-2). Jesus continued this message, declaring that “the time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel” (Mark 1:15). This dual command—repentance and faith—demonstrates that entering God’s kingdom requires both a turning from sin and a turning toward Christ.
Repentance as an Act of Grace
Repentance is not merely a human effort; it is initiated by God’s grace. Acts 11:18 describes repentance as something “granted” by God, highlighting its divine origin. It reflects God’s mercy in offering sinners an opportunity to turn back to Him before judgment arrives. Thus, repentance becomes a response to God’s gracious invitation into His kingdom.
Christological Fulfillment in Repentance
Jesus embodies perfect obedience and serves as the ultimate example of allegiance to God, demonstrating that genuine obedience is indeed possible for humanity. As both fully divine and yet fully human, Christ was sinless and had no need for repentance, but instead showcased unwavering submission to God’s will throughout His earthly life. His sinless existence fulfilled all righteousness (Matthew 3:15), offering believers a model of complete obedience and extreme allegiance to God.
In His humanity, Jesus experienced temptation, hunger, weariness, and the full range of human emotions, yet remained without sin. This demonstrates that obedience to God is attainable, even in the face of human limitations and trials. Christ’s perfect obedience was not merely passive but active, as He fulfilled both the moral and ceremonial laws, as well as the specific mediatorial commands given by the Father.
Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus not only exemplified perfect obedience but also provided the means for believers to be reconciled to God. His sacrifice enables forgiveness and empowers believers to pursue a life of obedience, as they repent and respond to God’s grace and Christ’s example of unwavering allegiance.
Jesus’ message that “the kingdom of heaven is at hand” points to His role as King. Through His miracles and teachings, Jesus showed that God’s rule is real and accessible through repentance and belief. While the fullness of His reign awaits His second coming, His lordship is already present in this age. Repentance acknowledges Jesus as King now, anticipating His ultimate reign in the future.
Implications for Believers
Transformative Power of Repentance
Repentance transforms believers by aligning their hearts with God’s purposes. It produces spiritual fruit (Matthew 3:8) and leads to ongoing sanctification through the Holy Spirit. As Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 7:10, “godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret.” True repentance involves not only turning away from sin but also embracing a life characterized by faithfulness and obedience.
New Testament Examples of Repentance
In the following examples identify the act of repentance and the proclamation of absolution or forgiveness;
1. Zacchaeus (Luke 19.1-10)
2. Sinner’s Prayer (Luke 18:9-14)
3. Repentant Woman (Luke 7:36-50)
4. The Wayward Son (Luke 15.11-24)
5. The Woman at the Well (John 4:4-38)
6. Simon the Fisherman (Luke 5:1-11)
7. The Thief on the Cross (Luke 23:32-43)
Proclaiming Repentance as Disciple-Makers
As followers of Christ, believers are called to preach repentance as part of their mission. Just as John prepared the way for Jesus, Christians are tasked with preparing others for Christ’s return by proclaiming the gospel message: “Repent and believe” (Mark 1:15). This call remains urgent because God’s kingdom demands a response from every individual.
Conclusion: The Eternal Reign of Christ
Repentance is foundational for entering God’s kingdom because it reflects a heart transformed by grace and aligned with God’s will. It reveals divine attributes such as mercy, justice, and holiness while pointing to Christ’s redemptive work on behalf of sinners. By responding to Jesus’ call to repent, believers acknowledge His present lordship while anticipating His eternal reign.
Ultimately, repentance serves as both an invitation and a command—an invitation into God’s grace-filled kingdom and a command to live under Christ’s authority today as their King. For those who heed this call, it offers not only entrance into God’s kingdom but also participation in its expansive and eternal reality.
Disciple-Maker’s Short Story
There’s Something Missing
The bus hummed softly as it rolled through the quiet streets, its passengers scattered in their seats. Bud sat near the middle, his Bible resting on his lap, while Matt leaned forward across the aisle, his face still lit with excitement from the day’s events. They had spent the afternoon sharing the gospel, and Matt had taken a big step by talking to one of his friends about Jesus for the first time. Bud had been proud to see him take that leap of faith, but now it was time for some feedback.
“You did really well today,” Bud began, his voice warm and encouraging. “You were clear, and your friend seemed genuinely interested.”
Matt grinned. “Thanks! I was nervous, but I just kept thinking about what you taught me—how important it is to share the good news.”
Bud nodded. “That’s right. But there’s something I want to talk about.” He paused, giving Matt a moment to prepare. “When you told your friend that ‘Jesus doesn’t expect you to do anything,’ I think you missed an important part of the gospel.”
Matt frowned slightly, leaning back in his seat. “What do you mean? I thought salvation was a free gift. Isn’t it just about believing?”
“It is a free gift,” Bud said gently, “but Jesus calls us to respond with repentance. It’s not just about believing facts; it’s about turning away from sin and surrendering to Him as King.”
Matt tilted his head, clearly thinking it over. “I didn’t want to make it sound too hard to follow Jesus.”
“I get that,” Bud said with a smile. He leaned forward slightly, his voice taking on a storytelling tone. “You know, this reminds me of my Army days. Back in basic training, we learned a command called ‘About, FACE.’ When the drill sergeant shouted it, we’d pivot 180 degrees on our toe and heel and turn to face the opposite direction.”
Matt’s eyebrows raised slightly as he listened.
“Repentance is like that ‘About, FACE’ command,” Bud continued, his voice steady and calm. “It’s a decisive turn in your heart and mind—a complete change of direction. You turn away from sin and face God instead. And here’s the thing: where your heart and mind go, your actions will follow. Just like in the Army, when we turned our bodies to face a new direction, repentance leads to a change in how we live.”
Matt nodded slowly as understanding dawned on his face.
Before he could respond, a voice from behind them broke into the conversation. “Wait—what does that mean? To repent?”
Both men turned to see Steve sitting two rows back. He had earbuds dangling around his neck and an uncertain look on his face.
Bud shifted in his seat so he could see him better. “It means turning away from your old way of living—your sins—and turning toward Jesus with a heart that’s ready to follow Him.”
Steve hesitated for a moment before leaning forward slightly. “I’ve been thinking about this for a while,” he admitted quietly. “I don’t like who I’ve become. I want to change… but I don’t know how.”
Matt looked at Steve in surprise but stayed silent as Bud spoke again.
“Steve,” Bud said gently but firmly, “Jesus invites you to come as you are—but He doesn’t leave you there. When you turn to Him in repentance and faith, He forgives your sins and gives you a new heart—a heart that wants to follow Him as King.”
Steve swallowed hard, his voice barely above a whisper. “So… I have to be willing to give up everything?”
Bud nodded slowly but kindly. “Everything that keeps you from Him—yes. But what you gain is so much greater: forgiveness, peace with God, and the joy of living under His rule.”
Steve looked down at his hands for a long moment before meeting Bud’s gaze again. “I think I’m ready,” he said softly.
Bud smiled warmly and motioned for Steve to come closer, inviting him to pray together. As Steve sat down beside him, Matt watched intently, feeling humbled by the moment.
Bud asked Steve if he believed that God loved him, sent His Son Jesus to die for his sins, and rose from the dead three days later. Steve nodded in affirmation, saying, “I do.”
“Are you ready to make Him your King and let Him guide your life?” Bud asked. Steve straightened up with conviction and replied, “I am.”
Bud then led Steve in a heartfelt prayer, confessing sin and surrendering to Jesus. Matt felt something stir deep within him, realizing that sharing the gospel wasn’t just about presenting facts, but about inviting people into a life-changing relationship with Jesus as their King.
After they finished praying, Steve looked up with tears in his eyes, yet an unmistakable peace on his face. “Thank you,” he said simply.
Bud placed a hand on Steve’s shoulder and smiled warmly. “This is just the beginning,” he said. “Since we ride the bus together daily, let’s discuss next steps as you learn to walk with Jesus next time we meet.”
As the bus slowed to their stop, Matt stood up with renewed determination in his heart. He wanted to be more like Bud—not just knowledgeable about the gospel but someone who lived it out with grace and truth. More than that, he wanted to be like Jesus—the King who called people not only to believe but also to turn and follow Him wholeheartedly.
As they stepped off the bus together into the cool night air, Matt glanced at Bud and said quietly, “Thanks for teaching me today.”
Bud chuckled softly as they walked toward their apartment building—three men now bound by their shared hope in Christ—and replied simply, “We’re all learning.”
ToBeLikeJesus 