No Repentance, No Salvation
Repentance involves regret and a change of perspective where we turn from our sin. It is more than simply regret over having to experience the unpleasant consequences of sin (2 Cor 7:10). It is more than mere sorrow (1 Sam 26:21). Rather, it involves confession of sin, grief over it, and a determined turning from it. True repentance is always accompanied by faith, which is a turning to God. Thus, repentance and faith are like different sides of one coin (Mk 1:15; Acts 20:21; 26:17-20). All genuine faith is repentant just as all genuine repentance involves faith. They seem to occur simultaneously.
Repentance is necessary to receive salvation (Lk 13:3; Acts 3:19) and as a continuing duty (Rev 2 and 3). It is required of all people (Acts 17:30) and seems to be a gift from God (2 Tim 2:25; 1 Cor 4:7). Initially, we repent for our basic sinfulness (Lk 18:13). Once we are saved, we normally repent for particular sins (Prov 28:13).
Repentance was the key message of John the Baptist (Mt 3:2), Jesus during His earthly ministry (Mt 4:17), Peter (Acts 2:38; 3:19; 5:31; 2 Pet 3:9), Paul (Acts 17:30; 20:21; 26:20; Rom 2:4; 2 Cor 7:10), the early church in general (Acts 11:18), and the risen Christ to His church (Lk 24:45-47; Rev 2 and 3).
Some results of repentance include humility (Lk 18:13-14) and improved behavior (Lk 3:8-14). Further results are joy, forgiveness, strengthening, and refreshing (Ps 51:12; Acts 3:19). Another consequence is a commitment to live as God wants so further repentance is unnecessary (Eph 5:5-10). Finally, there is joy in heaven when a person repents (Lk 15:7).
Unending pleasure in the next life; training for godly pleasure in this one.