75 Important KJV Bible Verses About Repentance

Repentance is a key part of the Christian walk, helping us turn from sin and step into God’s grace. When we look at Important KJV Bible Verses About Repentance, we see that God lovingly calls His people to return to Him with a sincere heart. Repentance opens the door to forgiveness and restores our fellowship with the Lord. It reminds us that no matter how far we fall, God is willing to lift us again.

Repentance is more than words—it is a change of direction, attitude, and actions. The Bible shows us that when we humble ourselves and seek God, He offers mercy, renewal, and a fresh start. Through repentance, our hearts are cleansed, our minds are renewed, and our spirits are strengthened. It leads us toward a life of peace, purpose, and closeness with God.

Bible Verses About Repentance 

Acts 3:19 – Repent and Be Converted

“Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord.” (KJV)

Peter’s sermon after Pentecost clearly defines repentance as a turning away from sin and toward God. True repentance involves both a change of mind and a change of direction in life. When we genuinely repent, our sins are erased, and we experience spiritual renewal that comes directly from God’s presence.

2 Chronicles 7:14 – Humble, Pray, Seek, and Turn

“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” (KJV)

This verse provides a comprehensive definition of repentance through four key actions: humbling ourselves before God, praying earnestly, seeking His presence, and turning away from sin. God’s promise is conditional upon genuine repentance, which results in forgiveness and restoration. Repentance is not merely feeling sorry but actively changing our ways.

Luke 13:3 – Perish Without Repentance

“I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.” (KJV)

Jesus makes it abundantly clear that repentance is not optional but essential for salvation. Without repentance, we face spiritual death and separation from God. This stark warning emphasizes the urgency and necessity of turning from sin to avoid eternal consequences.

Acts 17:30 – God Commands All to Repent

“And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men everywhere to repent.” (KJV)

Paul declares that repentance is God’s universal command to all humanity, not a suggestion or recommendation. God no longer overlooks our ignorance but requires everyone, everywhere, to turn from their sins. This verse emphasizes that repentance is a non-negotiable requirement from God Himself.

Luke 5:32 – Jesus Calls Sinners to Repentance

“I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” (KJV)

Jesus explicitly states His mission on earth: to call sinners to repentance. This verse defines the very purpose of Christ’s ministry—not to affirm people in their righteousness, but to lead those who recognize their sinfulness to turn back to God. Repentance is the doorway through which sinners enter into a relationship with Christ.

Ezekiel 18:30 – Repent and Turn From Transgressions

“Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his ways, saith the Lord God. Repent, and turn yourselves from all your transgressions; so iniquity shall not be your ruin.” (KJV)

God defines repentance here as a deliberate turning away from all sins and transgressions. It’s not selective obedience but a complete change of direction. This verse shows that repentance prevents spiritual ruin and demonstrates that our eternal destiny depends on our response to God’s call to turn from sin.

Mark 1:15 – Repent and Believe the Gospel

“The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.” (KJV)

Jesus begins His public ministry by linking repentance with faith in the gospel. True repentance involves both turning from sin and turning toward God through belief in the good news. These two elements—repentance and faith—are inseparable components of entering God’s kingdom.

Proverbs 28:13 – Confess and Forsake Sin

“He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.” (KJV)

This proverb defines genuine repentance as both confession and forsaking of sin. It’s not enough to merely acknowledge our wrongdoing; we must also abandon those sinful practices. Those who try to hide their sins will not succeed, but those who openly confess and turn away from them will receive God’s mercy.

Isaiah 55:7 – Forsake Ways and Thoughts

“Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.” (KJV)

True repentance involves changing not just our actions but also our thoughts and attitudes. God calls us to abandon both our sinful behaviors and the mindsets that led to them. When we genuinely return to the Lord with this complete transformation, He promises abundant mercy and complete pardon.

Jeremiah 8:6 – True Repentance Brings Changed Speech

“I hearkened and heard, but they spoke not alright: no man repented of his wickedness, saying, What have I done? ” every one turned to his course, as the horse rusheth into the battle.” (KJV)

God reveals that genuine repentance includes honest self-examination and verbal acknowledgment of wrongdoing. People who truly repent ask themselves, “What have I done?” and honestly confront their sins. Without this self-awareness and admission, people simply continue in their sinful patterns like horses charging mindlessly into battle.

Joel 2:12-13 – Rend Your Heart, Not Garments

“Therefore also now, saith the Lord, turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning: And rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth him of the evil.” (KJV)

God defines true repentance as an internal heart change rather than external religious rituals. While outward expressions like fasting and mourning may accompany repentance, God desires genuine heartfelt sorrow for sin. Repentance must be authentic, coming from a broken and contrite heart that truly turns back to God.

Ezekiel 18:32 – God Takes No Pleasure in Death

“For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord God: wherefore turn yourselves, and live ye.” (KJV)

This verse reveals God’s heart behind His call to repentance—He desires life for us, not death. Repentance is God’s gracious provision that allows us to turn from the path of destruction and choose life. God’s command to repent flows from His love and desire for our wellbeing, not from harshness.

Acts 26:20 – Repentance Brings Forth Works

“But shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judaea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works to repentance.” (KJV)

Paul explains that genuine repentance produces visible evidence through changed actions. True repentance isn’t just an emotional experience or mental agreement but results in a transformed life that demonstrates righteousness. The “works meet for repentance” are the natural fruit that grows from a truly repentant heart.

2 Peter 3:9 – God’s Longsuffering Leads to Repentance

“The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” (KJV)

God’s patience in delaying judgment is motivated by His desire for all people to repent. This verse reveals that repentance is God’s will for every person without exception. His seeming delay in fulfilling prophecy is actually His mercy, giving more people the opportunity to turn from sin and turn to Him.

Luke 15:7 – Heaven Rejoices Over Repentance

“I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.” (KJV)

Jesus teaches that repentance causes celebration in heaven, demonstrating its immense value in God’s eyes. The angels and all of heaven rejoice when even one sinner turns from their ways. This shows that repentance is not a burdensome duty but a joyous event that delights the heart of God.

Bible Verses About Repentance – For Salvation

Acts 2:38 – Repent and Be Baptized

“Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.” (KJV)

Peter’s response to those convicted by his Pentecost sermon establishes repentance as the first step toward salvation. Repentance must precede baptism and the receiving of the Holy Spirit. This verse shows that forgiveness of sins and the gift of God’s Spirit come only after genuine repentance from sin.

Luke 24:47 – Repentance and Remission Preached to All Nations

“And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” (KJV)

Jesus commissions His disciples to preach repentance and forgiveness of sins to all nations. This demonstrates that repentance is a universal requirement for salvation, not limited to any particular group. The gospel message must always include the call to repent for sins to be forgiven.

Acts 20:21 – Testifying Repentance Toward God

“Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.” (KJV)

Paul describes his evangelistic message as consisting of two essential elements: repentance toward God and faith in Jesus Christ. Both Jews and Gentiles need the same salvation, which requires turning from sin to God and placing faith in Christ. True salvation involves both repenting and believing.

Romans 2:4 – God’s Goodness Leads to Repentance

“Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?” (KJV)

Paul reveals that it’s God’s kindness and patience, not His wrath alone, that motivates people to repent. When we truly understand God’s goodness toward us despite our sin, it should lead us to genuine repentance. Those who despise God’s mercy miss the very thing meant to draw them to salvation.

2 Corinthians 7:10 – Godly Sorrow Works Repentance

“For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.” (KJV)

Paul distinguishes between godly sorrow that leads to saving repentance and worldly sorrow that leads to death. Genuine repentance stems from godly sorrow over sin—grief over offending God, not just regret over consequences. This kind of repentance brings salvation and is never regretted, unlike worldly remorse.

Matthew 4:17 – Jesus Preaches Repentance

“From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” (KJV)

Jesus begins His earthly ministry with a call to repentance, making it the foundation of His message. The nearness of God’s kingdom demands an immediate response of turning from sin. This shows that repentance is not just preparation for the gospel—it is the gospel’s first word.

Mark 6:12 – Disciples Preach Repentance

“And they went out, and preached that men should repent.” (KJV)

When Jesus sent out His twelve disciples, their primary message was the call to repentance. This demonstrates that repentance was central to the gospel message from the beginning. The apostles understood that salvation required people to turn from their sins.

Acts 11:18 – God Grants Repentance to the Gentiles

“When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.” (KJV)

The early church recognized that even repentance is a gift from God, granted to both Jews and Gentiles. Repentance that leads to eternal life is not something we can manufacture ourselves—it’s a grace given by God. This verse shows that salvation through repentance is available to all people, not just one nation.

Matthew 3:2 – John the Baptist Preaches Repentance

“And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” (KJV)

John the Baptist prepared the way for Jesus by calling people to repentance. His message was identical to Jesus’ opening proclamation, emphasizing that entrance into God’s kingdom requires turning from sin. This consistent message shows that repentance has always been God’s requirement for salvation.

Luke 13:5 – Repent or Perish

“I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.” (KJV)

Jesus gives a solemn warning that without repentance, eternal destruction is certain. This is not a gentle suggestion but an urgent command with eternal consequences. Those who refuse to repent will face the same fate as those who suffered tragic deaths—but their judgment will be eternal.

Acts 5:31 – Jesus Exalted to Give Repentance

“Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.” (KJV)

God exalted Jesus to His right hand specifically to give repentance and forgiveness to His people. This shows that Christ’s work on the cross makes both repentance and forgiveness possible. Jesus is not only our Savior but also the source of the repentance needed for salvation.

Matthew 21:32 – Believing After Seeing Repentance

“For John came unto you in the way of righteousness, and ye believed him not: but the publicans and the harlots believed him: and ye, when ye had seen it, repented not afterward, that ye might believe him.” (KJV)

Jesus rebukes the religious leaders for refusing to repent even after witnessing tax collectors and prostitutes turn to God. True salvation requires humble repentance regardless of one’s religious status. The most unlikely sinners often repent while the self-righteous refuse to acknowledge their need for salvation.

Revelation 2:5 – Remember, Repent, or Removal

“Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.” (KJV)

Jesus warns the church at Ephesus that without repentance, they risk losing their place in God’s kingdom. Even believers must maintain a posture of repentance, remembering where they came from and returning to their first love. Persistent refusal to repent can result in spiritual removal from God’s presence.

1 John 1:9 – Confess and Be Forgiven

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (KJV)

John provides assurance that God will forgive when we confess our sins with genuine repentance. God’s faithfulness and justice guarantee that confession leads to complete forgiveness and cleansing. This promise applies to all who humbly acknowledge their sins and turn from them.

Psalm 51:17 – A Broken and Contrite Heart

“The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.” (KJV)

David reveals that God values genuine heartfelt repentance over religious rituals and sacrifices. A broken spirit and contrite heart—true sorrow over sin—is what God desires and will never reject. This kind of humble, repentant heart is the key to finding acceptance before God.

Bible Verses About Repentance – After Salvation

Matthew 21:29 – The Repentant Son Did His Father’s Will

“He answered and said, I will not: but afterward he repented, and went.” (KJV)

This statement about repentance is part of one of Jesus’ parables. This parable was about two sons. This particular son at first refused to do what his father asked, but then he had a change of heart and later did obey his father’s wishes. He repented of his former disobedient actions.

Revelation 2:16 – Repent or Face Jesus’ Sword

“Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.” (KJV)

Jesus calls the church at Pergamos to repent of tolerating false teaching and immorality. Even believers can fall into error and need to repent to restore their relationship with Christ. The warning of divine discipline shows that ongoing repentance is necessary throughout the Christian life.

Revelation 3:3 – Remember, Hold Fast, and Repent

“Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.” (KJV)

Christ instructs the church at Sardis to remember their initial faith, hold onto truth, and repent of their spiritual deadness. Believers can become complacent and need to return to their first fervor through repentance. Failure to repent brings unexpected judgment even upon those who once walked faithfully.

Revelation 3:19 – Jesus Chastens Those He Loves

“As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.” (KJV)

Jesus explains that His rebukes and discipline are expressions of His love for believers. When God corrects us, the proper response is zealous repentance, not defensiveness or despair. Ongoing repentance should characterize the life of every believer who experiences God’s loving correction.

2 Chronicles 30:9 – Return to God and Find Compassion

“For if ye turn again unto the Lord, your brethren and your children shall find compassion before them that lead them captive, so that they shall come again into this land: for the Lord your God is gracious and merciful, and will not turn away his face from you, if ye return unto him.” (KJV)

King Hezekiah encourages God’s people to return to the Lord through repentance, promising that God will show mercy and restore what was lost. Even when believers have wandered, God’s graciousness ensures that genuine repentance brings restoration. God never turns away from those who sincerely turn back to Him.

James 5:16 – Confess Faults to One Another

“Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” (KJV)

James instructs believers to confess their sins to one another, demonstrating that repentance has a communal aspect. Ongoing confession and repentance within the Christian community brings healing and restoration. This mutual accountability and prayer support helps believers maintain repentant hearts.

1 Kings 8:47-48 – Return to God with Heart and Soul

“Yet if they shall bethink themselves in the land whither they were carried captives, and repent, and make supplication unto thee in the land of them that carried them captives, saying, We have sinned, and have done perversely, we have committed wickedness; And so return unto thee with all their heart, and with all their soul.” (KJV)

Solomon’s prayer acknowledges that even God’s people will sin and need to repent. True repentance involves wholehearted return to God, complete acknowledgment of wrongdoing, and earnest supplication for mercy. God makes provision for His people to return to Him no matter how far they’ve strayed.

Hosea 14:1-2 – Return to the Lord Your God

“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.” (KJV)

God calls His wayward people to return to Him through repentance, providing the very words they should say. Even after repeated failures, God invites His people back with the promise of gracious acceptance. Believers who fall into sin can always repent and be restored to fellowship with God.

Jeremiah 3:12-13 – Acknowledge Your Iniquity

“Go and proclaim these words toward the north, and say, Return, thou backsliding Israel, saith the Lord; and I will not cause mine anger to fall upon you: for I am merciful, saith the Lord, and I will not keep anger for ever. Only acknowledge thine iniquity, that thou hast transgressed against the Lord thy God.” (KJV)

God pleads with backslidden Israel to return through repentance, requiring only that they acknowledge their sins. His mercy is so great that He promises not to remain angry forever if they will simply admit their transgressions. Even believers who have backslidden can find restoration through humble acknowledgment and repentance.

Lamentations 3:40 – Search and Try Our Ways

“Let us search and try our ways, and turn again to the Lord.” (KJV)

The prophet Jeremiah encourages self-examination and repentance as the path back to God. Believers should regularly examine their lives, identify areas of sin, and turn back to the Lord. This ongoing process of self-reflection and repentance keeps us in the right relationship with God.

Psalm 32:5 – Confession Brings Forgiveness

“I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and my iniquity have I not hid. I said, “I will confess my transgressions unto the Lord; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin.” (KJV)

David testifies that when he stopped hiding his sin and confessed it to God, immediate forgiveness followed. Believers who acknowledge their sins rather than concealing them receive God’s forgiveness. This psalm encourages ongoing confession and repentance as the pathway to maintaining fellowship with God.

Ezekiel 14:6 – Repent and Turn from Idols

“Therefore say unto the house of Israel, Thus saith the Lord God; Repent, and turn yourselves from your idols; and turn away your faces from all your abominations.” (KJV)

God calls His people to repent not just from obvious sins but from idolatry—anything that takes His place in our hearts. Believers must continuously examine what they’re worshiping and turn away from anything that competes with God. True repentance involves turning our complete attention back to God alone.

2 Peter 3:14 – Be Diligent to Be Found Blameless

“Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.” (KJV)

Peter urges believers to live in anticipation of Christ’s return by maintaining pure lives through ongoing repentance. The expectation of Jesus’ coming should motivate us to deal quickly with sin through repentance. Diligence in maintaining a repentant heart prepares us to meet Christ without shame.

Galatians 6:1 – Restore the Fallen with Gentleness

“Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.” (KJV)

Paul instructs spiritually mature believers to gently help those who have fallen into sin to repent and be restored. This shows that repentance after salvation sometimes requires the loving intervention of fellow believers. The church should create an environment where repentance is encouraged and restoration is pursued.

Matthew 18:15 – Confront Sin to Gain Your Brother

“Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.” (KJV)

Jesus provides a process for addressing sin among believers that aims at repentance and restoration. When a brother sins, confronting him privately gives opportunity for repentance without public shame. The goal is always restoration through genuine repentance, demonstrating God’s heart for maintaining unity through dealing with sin.

Hebrews 12:17 – Esau Found No Place of Repentance

“For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears.” (KJV)

The example of Esau warns believers that there can be a point of no return when repentance is too late. Though he wept bitterly, Esau could not undo the consequences of despising his birthright. This sobering reminder encourages believers to repent quickly rather than presuming there will always be another opportunity.

Bible Verses About Repentance – Forgiveness To Others

Matthew 18:21-22 – Forgive Seventy Times Seven

“Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.” (KJV)

Peter thought seven times was generous forgiveness, but Jesus expanded it to seventy times seven, meaning unlimited forgiveness. When others repent and seek our forgiveness, we must extend it repeatedly without keeping count. This radical forgiveness reflects God’s boundless mercy toward us and demonstrates the heart transformation that comes from genuine repentance.

Luke 17:3-4 – Rebuke and Forgive the Repentant

“Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him. And if he trespasses against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, I repent; thou shalt forgive him.” (KJV)

Jesus instructs believers to confront sin but immediately forgive when repentance occurs. Even if someone sins against us repeatedly in the same day, we must forgive each time they genuinely repent. This teaches that true repentance from others should always be met with our forgiveness, no matter how frequently it’s needed.

Matthew 6:14-15 – Forgive to Be Forgiven

“For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” (KJV)

Jesus makes a startling connection between our forgiveness of others and God’s forgiveness of us. Those who refuse to forgive others when they repent cannot expect God’s forgiveness for their own sins. This verse reveals that our willingness to forgive repentant sinners is evidence of our own repentant heart before God.

Colossians 3:13 – Forbearing and Forgiving One Another

“Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man has a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.” (KJV)

Paul commands believers to forgive one another just as Christ forgave them. When someone repents of wrongdoing against us, we must extend the same grace Christ showed us. Our forgiveness should be modeled after Christ’s unlimited, unconditional forgiveness, creating a community where repentance leads to restoration.

Ephesians 4:32 – Be Kind and Tenderhearted

“And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” (KJV)

Believers are called to forgive others with the same compassion God showed us through Christ. When others repent, our response should be kindness and tenderhearted forgiveness, not grudging acceptance. The measure of God’s forgiveness toward us should be the measure we use when forgiving repentant brothers and sisters.

Mark 11:25-26 – Forgive While Standing Praying

“And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have fought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.” (KJV)

Jesus teaches that unforgiveness hinders our prayers and our relationship with God. Before we approach God in prayer, we should release any grudges and forgive those who have wronged us, especially if they’ve repented. Holding onto bitterness blocks God’s forgiveness and undermines our spiritual life.

Matthew 18:35 – Forgive from Your Hearts

“So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.” (KJV)

Jesus concludes the parable of the unforgiving servant with this sobering warning: we must forgive from our hearts, not just outwardly. Genuine forgiveness of repentant sinners must come from sincere compassion, not mere obligation. God examines our hearts and expects heartfelt forgiveness that matches the mercy He’s shown us.

Luke 6:37 – Forgive and You Shall Be Forgiven

“Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven.” (KJV)

Jesus promises that those who freely forgive will themselves receive forgiveness. When others repent of their sins against us, we must not continue to judge or condemn them. The grace we extend to repentant sinners will be returned to us in our own need for forgiveness.

Proverbs 17:9 – Love Covers Transgressions

“He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; but he that repeateth a matter separateth very friends.” (KJV)

True love covers offenses rather than broadcasting them, especially after repentance has occurred. When someone repents, we should forgive and move forward rather than repeatedly bringing up past failures. Continuing to rehearse forgiven sins destroys relationships and reveals a lack of genuine forgiveness.

James 5:15 – Prayer of Faith Shall Save the Sick

“And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he has committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.” (KJV)

James connects physical healing with spiritual forgiveness, showing that when believers confess and repent, the community should respond with prayer and assurance of forgiveness. The church’s role includes extending forgiveness to repentant members and interceding for their complete restoration. Corporate forgiveness strengthens the body of Christ.

2 Corinthians 2:7-8 – Forgive and Comfort the Repentant

“So that contrariwise ye ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow. Wherefore I beseech you that ye would confirm your love toward him.” (KJV)

Paul urges the Corinthian church to forgive and comfort a repentant member who had been disciplined. When someone genuinely repents, believers should actively restore them with love and encouragement. Withholding forgiveness from a truly repentant person can lead them to despair rather than restoration.

Genesis 50:17 – Joseph’s Brothers Seek Forgiveness

“So shall ye say unto Joseph, Forgive, I pray thee now, the trespass of thy brethren, and their sin; for they did unto thee evil: and now, we pray thee, forgive the trespass of the servants of the God of thy father. And Joseph wept when they spoke unto him.” (KJV)

Joseph’s brothers finally acknowledged their sin and sought his forgiveness years after selling him into slavery. Joseph’s emotional response showed his heart was already prepared to forgive. This demonstrates that genuine repentance, even when delayed, should be met with compassionate forgiveness and emotional reconciliation.

Philemon 1:17-18 – Receive Him as Myself

“If thou count me therefore a partner, receive him as myself. If he hath wronged thee, or oweth thee ought, put that on mine account.” (KJV)

Paul asks Philemon to forgive and restore Onesimus, a runaway slave who had wronged him but now repented. Paul even offers to pay any debts, modeling Christ’s substitutionary work. When others genuinely repent, we should welcome them back fully, treating them as we would treat Christ Himself.

1 Peter 4:8 – Love Covers a Multitude of Sins

“And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.” (KJV)

Peter teaches that genuine love among believers covers many offenses and promotes forgiveness. When repentance occurs, love doesn’t keep a record of wrongs but graciously forgives and moves forward. Fervent love creates an atmosphere where repentance is encouraged and forgiveness flows freely.

Matthew 5:23-24 – Be Reconciled Before Offering

“Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” (KJV)

Jesus teaches that reconciliation with others takes priority over religious rituals. If we’ve wronged someone, we must seek their forgiveness through repentance before approaching God in worship. Similarly, if someone has wronged us and repented, we must forgive them to maintain our right standing with God.

Bible Verses About Repentance – Does God Repent?

1 Samuel 15:29 – God Is Not a Man That He Should Repent

“And also the Strength of Israel will not lie nor repent: for he is not a man, that he should repent.” (KJV)

Samuel declares that God does not repent like humans do because He is not changeable or capable of making mistakes. When Scripture speaks of God “repenting,” it uses human language to describe His response to changed circumstances. God’s character and purposes remain constant, though His actions may change in response to human behavior.

Numbers 23:19 – God Does Not Change His Mind

“God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?” (KJV)

Balaam affirms that God’s nature is unchangeable and His promises are certain. Unlike humans who repent because of sin or error, God never needs to change His mind due to failure or wrongdoing. His words are absolutely reliable because he is perfect in knowledge and character.

Genesis 6:6 – God Repented He Had Made Man

“And it repented the Lord that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart.” (KJV)

The text says God “repented” of making mankind when He saw their great wickedness. This anthropomorphic language describes God’s genuine grief and emotional response to human sin, not that He made a mistake. God’s sorrow over humanity’s rebellion led Him to respond with judgment, demonstrating His holy reaction to sin.

Exodus 32:14 – God Repented of the Evil

“And the Lord repented of the evil which he thought to do unto his people.” (KJV)

After Moses interceded for Israel, God “repented” of the judgment He planned to bring. This shows God’s willingness to respond mercifully when people repent and intercessors pray. God’s “repentance” here means He changed His course of action based on changed circumstances, not that His character or purposes changed.

Jonah 3:10 – God Repented of the Evil

“And God saw their works, that they turned from their evil way; and God repented of the evil, that he had said that he would do unto them; and he did it not.” (KJV)

When the Ninevites repented, God “repented” of the destruction He had threatened. God’s response demonstrates that His warnings of judgment are conditional—when people repent, He extends mercy instead. This doesn’t reflect divine inconsistency but shows God’s compassionate response to genuine human repentance.

Jeremiah 18:8 – God Repents When Nations Turn

“If that nation, against whom I have pronounced, turn from their evil, I will repent of the evil that I thought to do unto them.” (KJV)

God explicitly states His principle: when a nation turns from evil, He will relent from planned judgment. This reveals that God’s warnings are meant to produce repentance, not inevitable destruction. God’s “repentance” is actually His consistent mercy responding to changed human behavior.

1 Samuel 15:11 – God Repented Making Saul King

“It repenteth me that I have set up Saul to be king: for he is turned back from following me, and hath not performed my commandments. And it grieved Samuel; and he cried unto the Lord all night.” (KJV)

God expressed regret over making Saul king because of Saul’s disobedience. This doesn’t mean God made an error but that He grieved over Saul’s rebellion and its consequences. God’s emotional response to human failure demonstrates His genuine sorrow when people He’s blessed turn away from Him.

Joel 2:13 – God Is Gracious and Repents of Evil

“And rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repent of evil.” (KJV)

Joel describes God as one who “repents of evil,” meaning He relents from sending judgment when people genuinely repent. This characteristic of God should encourage people to return to Him, knowing He responds with mercy. God’s readiness to relent shows His desire for restoration over punishment.

Amos 7:3 – The Lord Repented of This

“The Lord repented for this: It shall not be, saith the Lord.” (KJV)

After Amos interceded, God “repented” of planned judgment against Israel. This demonstrates God’s responsiveness to prayer and His willingness to show mercy. God’s “repentance” here reveals His compassionate nature and His openness to the appeals of righteous intercessors.

Jeremiah 26:3 – God May Repent of the Evil

“If so be they will hearken, and turn every man from his evil way, that I may repent of the evil, which I purpose to do unto them because of the evil of their doings.” (KJV)

God reveals His hope that His warnings will produce repentance so He can show mercy instead of judgment. The purpose of prophetic warning is always to create opportunity for repentance. God’s willingness to “repent” demonstrates His preference for mercy over judgment.

Jeremiah 26:13 – Obey and God Will Repent

“Therefore now amend your ways and your doings, and obey the voice of the Lord your God; and the Lord will repent him of the evil that he hath pronounced against you.” (KJV)

Jeremiah calls the people to change their ways so God will relent from judgment. This conditional statement shows that God’s judgments are warnings meant to produce change. When people respond with genuine repentance and obedience, God responds by withholding punishment.

Jeremiah 18:10 – God Repents When Nations Disobey

“If it does evil in my sight, that it obeys not my voice, then I will repent of the good, wherewith I said I would benefit them.” (KJV)

Just as God relents from judgment when nations repent, He also withdraws promised blessings when nations turn to evil. God’s responses—whether judgment or blessing—are always appropriate reactions to human behavior. His “repentance” reflects His just and consistent character responding to changed circumstances.

Psalm 110:4 – The Lord Will Not Repent

“The Lord hath sworn, and will not repent, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek.” (KJV)

Regarding His Messianic promises, God declares He will never change His mind. Some divine promises are unconditional and absolutely certain. While God may relent from conditional warnings of judgment, His covenantal promises about Christ and salvation are eternally unchangeable.

Hebrews 7:21 – The Lord Swore and Will Not Repent

“(For those priests were made without an oath; but this with an oath by him that said unto him, The Lord sware and will not repent, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec:)” (KJV)

The New Testament confirms that God’s oath regarding Christ’s eternal priesthood is irrevocable. Unlike temporary Old Testament priests, Christ’s priesthood rests on God’s unchangeable promise. This demonstrates that when God makes covenant promises, He never repents or changes His mind about them.

Malachi 3:6 – I Am the Lord, I Change Not

“For I am the Lord, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.” (KJV)

God declares His immutable nature—He does not change in character, purpose, or promise. Israel’s survival depends on God’s unchanging faithfulness to His covenant. When Scripture speaks of God “repenting,” it never means He changes His essential nature or breaks His promises, but rather responds appropriately to human actions.

Our Thoughts On Bible Verses About Repentance

Repentance stands as one of the most essential themes throughout Scripture, from the Old Testament prophets to Jesus’ opening message and the apostles’ teaching. These verses reveal that genuine repentance is far more than feeling sorry for our mistakes; it’s a complete turning away from sin and toward God with both heart and action. The Bible consistently shows that God’s character is marked by incredible patience and mercy, always ready to forgive those who truly repent and return to Him with humble hearts.

What’s particularly striking about these verses is how they balance God’s holy demand for repentance with His compassionate desire to restore us. Whether we’re coming to salvation for the first time or returning after we’ve wandered, God’s arms remain open to receive repentant hearts.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is repentance according to the KJV Bible?

Repentance in the KJV means turning away from sin and turning back to God with a sincere and humble heart. (Luke 13:3 KJV)

What does the KJV Bible say about why we must repent?

The KJV teaches that repentance is necessary for salvation and to avoid spiritual destruction. (Acts 3:19 KJV)

Which KJV Bible verse talks about confessing sins and repenting?

The Bible says if we confess our sins, God forgives and cleanses us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9 KJV)

What did Jesus say about repentance in the KJV?

Jesus said all must repent or perish, making repentance a universal command. (Luke 13:5 KJV)

What is the first step of repentance in the KJV Bible?

The first step is recognizing your sin and seeking God’s mercy. (Psalm 51:3–4 KJV)

Does God forgive a repentant heart in the KJV Bible?

Yes, God is merciful and ready to forgive those who truly repent. (Psalm 86:5 KJV)

Which KJV verse shows that repentance brings spiritual renewal?

Repentance leads to times of refreshing from the presence of the Lord. (Acts 3:19 KJV)

What does the KJV say about God wanting everyone to repent?

The Bible teaches that God is patient and wants all to come to repentance. (2 Peter 3:9 KJV)

How does the KJV Bible connect repentance with salvation?

Repentance prepares the heart for salvation and forgiveness through Christ. (Mark 1:15 KJV)

Can we hide sin if we don’t repent according to the KJV?

No, those who cover sin will not prosper, but repentance brings mercy. (Proverbs 28:13 KJV)

conclusion

True repentance is a gift that brings us back into the loving arms of God. As we reflect on Important KJV Bible Verses About Repentance, we learn that God is always ready to forgive, restore, and renew our hearts when we turn to Him with sincerity. Repentance breaks the chains of guilt and gives us a fresh start filled with hope and grace. Through it, we experience God’s mercy in a deeper and more personal way.

A repentant heart leads to transformation, peace, and spiritual growth. When we confess our sins and choose to walk in God’s ways, He guides our steps and strengthens our faith. Repentance is not the end—it is the beginning of a closer journey with God. May we always be humble, willing to change, and eager to follow the path that draws us nearer to Him.