What does it mean to repent? The dictionary defines it as to “feel or express sincere regret or remorse about one’s wrongdoing or sin” (Google). The Greek word translated as repent goes a step further, implying reformation, a turning away from previous actions.
The parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32) is one of a series of parables that illustrate the rejoicing in heaven when one who is lost is found. And it provides a good illustration of repentance.
In the parable, a man had two sons. The younger demanded his share of the inheritance. When he received it, he went to a distant country and wasted all he had. And when he was destitute, he determined to return home, not as a son, but as a servant.
Then his son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ But the father said to his slaves, ‘Hurry! Bring the best robe, and put it on him! Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet! Bring the fattened calf and kill it! Let us eat and celebrate, because this son of mine was dead, and is alive again—he was lost and is found!’ So they began to celebrate.
Luke 15:21-24 NET
The younger son did two things. He determined that the course his life was taking was a dead end—it had no hope. And he threw himself on his father’s mercy, not presuming to be worthy of anything.
And that is what biblical repentance is. It is first recognizing that the direction we are taking in life is a dead end. And then changing course and throwing ourselves on the mercy of God.
In this parable, when the younger son returned home and threw himself at his father’s mercy, the father responded with great joy. He stripped him of his rags and clothed him as an honored son. And then threw a big party.
And this illustrates the Father’s response to each of us who come to him in repentance. He strips us of our filthy rags and clothes us with his righteousness. And he rejoices, with all of heaven, when the prodigal repents–when the one who was lost has been found.
