Counterfeit Repentance
When considering repentance, we must also be aware of counterfeit repentance, which looks similar to biblical repentance but is not genuine. Paul writes to the Corinthians about the difference between godly sorrow and worldly sorrow (2 Corinthians 7:8-12). He contrasts these in the context of a church consisting of professing Christians. He affirms that worldly sorrow, a superficial sorrow over sin, differs from godly sorrow, which alone leads to life (2 Corinthians 7:10).
In contrasting these two types of sorrow, Paul is suggesting that worldly sorrow calls into question the genuineness of a person’s profession of faith in Christ, while godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation. It’s possible that some in the Corinthian church had only superficial sorrow, lacking genuine repentance, despite believing in other essential biblical doctrines.
Illustrating Genuine and False Repentance
The difference between godly and worldly sorrow is illustrated in the lives of two of Jesus' disciples, Peter and Judas. Both failed significantly at the time of the Lord's crucifixion. Judas betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver and led soldiers to arrest Him (Matthew 26:15). Peter, when asked if he was a disciple, denied knowing Jesus with oaths and curses (Matthew 26:72).
Their guilt did not determine the disingenuousness of their faith but their response to their sin did. Both felt convicted and confessed their wrongdoing. Judas publicly declared his mistake by returning the money, and confessing to the Jewish authorities (Matthew 27:4). However, his confession and remorse led to despair, not reconciliation with God. He hung himself, ignoring God's opportunity for redemption (Matthew 27:5).
In contrast, Peter’s sorrow led him back to the Lord. Upon hearing of Jesus' resurrection, he ran to the tomb (Luke 24:12). He sought to be near the Lord Jesus, confessed his sin, and repented. His life afterward demonstrated his genuine change of mind and heart (Acts 2:14). Peter’s actions were not to make amends but, as with Zacchaeus, they were a reflection of a repentant heart.
The Relevance of Repentance
This lesson applies not only to unbelievers but also to the church. Paul’s contrast of worldly and godly sorrow was written to professing Christians. The Corinthian church included individuals living immorally. When called to repent, those who responded with genuine repentance were restored, as seen when Paul wrote, “so that, on the contrary, you ought rather to forgive and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one be swallowed up with too much sorrow” (2 Corinthians 2:7).
However, some in the church may not be genuinely repentant. They might acknowledge being sinners in a broad sense but resist repenting of specific sins. It is important to note that church discipline, as introduced by the Lord, is based, not on the severity of a person’s sin, but on their unwillingness to listen to the church and repent (Matthew 18:17). Genuine faith is demonstrated through repentance.
Characteristics of Genuine Repentance
Jim Newheiser contrasts the insincere efforts of worldly sorrow with the genuine fruit of godly sorrow in repentance.
The doctrine of repentance is relevant not only in calling unbelievers to believe and be saved but also in examining the ongoing faith of professing Christians. Genuine repentance is marked by a heartfelt change in behaviour. It is in the trials of life that what is in our hearts in made manifest, and the trying of our faith proves the genuineness of our profession,
“In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honour at the revelation of Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 1:6-7).
Furthermore, despite daily failures and ongoing struggles with sin, believers can find comfort in God's mercy and willingness to forgive. Repentance leads to transformation, helping believers become more like Christ.
