Greek word · Strong's G3341

μετάνοια

metánoia · noun · “repentance”

In a sentence

Metanoia is repentance — literally a change of mind that turns into a change of direction. It is turning from sin to God, the response the gospel calls for alongside faith.

Metanoia combines “after/change” with “mind”: a transformed way of thinking that reorients the whole life. It is not mainly feeling sorry but turning — away from sin and self-rule, toward God.

John the Baptist and Jesus both began their preaching with the call to repent, “for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” True repentance and faith are two sides of one turning: away from sin, toward Christ.

Strong's reference

Definition: (subjectively) compunction (for guilt, including reformation); by implication, reversal (of (another's) decision)

KJV usage: repentance

Reference gloss from Strong's Concordance (1890, public domain).

Key verses BSB · Public Domain (CC0)

Acts 2:38 “Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” Mark 1:15 ““The time is fulfilled,” He said, “and the kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe in the gospel!”” Acts 3:19 “Repent, then, and turn back, so that your sins may be wiped away,”

Original BibleDawn word study. Original-language data and the public-domain Strong's (1890) gloss are referenced; see sources.