How Does The Working Of Repentance Change Our Intellect? 

Repentance is a complete change of mind regarding sin, a revolution in viewpoint. 

Repentance includes recognition of sin for what it is.

Through repentance we are brought to share God’s evaluation of us. We surrender our defenses againstawareness, and agree with God in naming it. 

“O Israel, return unto the LORD thy God; for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity. Take with you words, and turn to the LORD: say unto him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously: so will we render the calves of our lips “(Hos. 14:1,2). 

Repentance includes the realization that we not only “do” sinful things, but that we are sinful people.

We come to our senses and see what God has been pointing out about our need for radical change from the inside out. We realize that God is right and we are wrong-we are sinners!

“Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me. Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom” (Psa. 51:5, 6). 

Repentance includes acknowledging God’s judgment regarding our sinful condition to be right and just. 

We are able to agree with God and put away all excuse-making and self-justification. 

“For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me. Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest” (Psa. 51:3, 4).