Repentance is a fundamental concept in Christian theology, signifying a profound change of mind and heart, turning away from sin and toward God. It is not merely an emotional response but involves a conscious decision to forsake sin and pursue righteousness. The Greek word for repentance, "metanoia," implies a transformative change of heart.

In the Old Testament, repentance is often associated with returning to God and His commandments. The prophets frequently called Israel to repentance, urging them to abandon idolatry and injustice. For instance, in Joel 2:12-13 , the Lord calls His people to repentance: "Even now," declares the LORD, "return to Me with all your heart, with fasting, weeping, and mourning. Rend your hearts and not your garments. Return to the LORD your God, for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in loving devotion."

In the New Testament, repentance is central to the message of John the Baptist and Jesus Christ. John the Baptist's ministry began with the call to repentance, preparing the way for the Lord (Matthew 3:2). Jesus Himself proclaimed, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near" (Matthew 4:17). Repentance is also a key theme in the teachings of the apostles. In Acts 2:38 , Peter exhorts the crowd, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins."

Repentance is closely linked to faith in Christ. It is through repentance and faith that one receives forgiveness and is reconciled to God. The Apostle Paul emphasizes this in Acts 20:21 , testifying "to both Jews and Greeks about repentance to God and faith in our Lord Jesus."

Justice

Justice, as presented in the Bible, is rooted in the character of God, who is perfectly just and righteous. It involves the fair and equitable treatment of individuals, upholding what is right according to God's standards. Biblical justice is not merely a legal concept but encompasses moral and ethical dimensions, reflecting God's holiness and love.

In the Old Testament, justice is a central theme in the Law and the Prophets. The Mosaic Law provided guidelines for just behavior, emphasizing the protection of the vulnerable, such as widows, orphans, and foreigners. Deuteronomy 16:20 commands, "Pursue justice, and justice alone, so that you may live and possess the land the LORD your God is giving you."

The prophets often rebuked Israel for failing to uphold justice, equating injustice with idolatry and sin. Micah 6:8 succinctly summarizes God's requirement: "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?"

In the New Testament, Jesus embodies and teaches justice. He challenges the religious leaders of His day for their hypocrisy and neglect of justice, mercy, and faithfulness (Matthew 23:23). Jesus' ministry consistently demonstrated God's justice through acts of healing, forgiveness, and inclusion of the marginalized.

The early church continued this emphasis on justice, advocating for the fair treatment of all people. James 1:27 defines pure religion as caring for orphans and widows in their distress, highlighting the practical outworking of justice in the life of believers.

Justice, in the biblical sense, is ultimately fulfilled in Christ, who will return to judge the living and the dead, establishing His kingdom of perfect justice and righteousness. Revelation 19:11 depicts this future reality: "Then I saw heaven standing open, and there before me was a white horse. And its rider is called Faithful and True. With righteousness He judges and wages war."