What does the Bible say about penitence?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible teaches that true penitence is a Spirit-wrought sorrow for sin that turns from self-justification to God’s mercy in Christ. It involves confessing sin honestly, grieving that we have offended a holy and loving God, and trusting his promise of forgiveness rather than attempting to earn it. David’s prayer in Psalm 51 shows the broken and contrite heart God receives, while the prophets call sinners to return to the Lord because he is gracious and merciful. Jesus warns against empty outward religion and commends humble repentance, and 2 Corinthians 7:10 distinguishes godly grief, which produces repentance leading to salvation, from worldly sorrow. Repentance bears fruit in renewed obedience, yet remains dependent on God’s grace.