Read the Scripture
Scripture passages for Repent and Believe
Primary passage
Matthew 4:17
17 From that time, Jesus began to preach, and to say, “Repent! For the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand.”
World English Bible
Mark
Mark 1:15
15 and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and God’s Kingdom is at hand! Repent, and believe in the Good News.”
World English Bible
The command
Repent and believe the gospel.
In context
Hear the whole passage.
Jesus begins His public ministry in Galilee by announcing that the appointed time has come and God’s kingdom has drawn near.
What This Reveals About Jesus
Turn from sin and entrust yourself to the good news of God’s kingdom.
God meets people with a summons that joins repentance to hope: His reign is near, and His good news can be trusted.
Practice this command
Take one concrete step.
Name one attitude or action you need to turn from. Confess it to God and take one concrete step today that agrees with Jesus’ good news.
Discuss it
What is the difference between feeling regret and actually turning toward God in trust?
Pray
Jesus, show me what I need to turn from and give me faith to trust and obey your good news.
Teach it
Explain repentance as both turning away from sin and turning toward God in faith.
Continue in the original collection
This command is source position 1 in the complete sequence.