Depart From ME: CH.3 Terminology.

A message to Believers

Repent:

The Hebrew word often translated as “repent” is שׁוּב (shuv). Its primary meaning is to “return” or “turn back.” Unlike merely feeling regret, shuv emphasizes a deliberate action—a turning away from sin and a returning to God. It conveys the idea of a physical and spiritual change of direction.

In a biblical context, shuv often describes turning away from wrongdoing and realigning oneself with God’s ways. This act of turning involves both the heart and behavior: heartfelt sorrow for sin, combined with a commitment to walk in obedience to God.

A well-known example of this concept is found in Joel 2:13, which says, “Return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and compassionate…” Here, shuv implies not just repentance, but the assurance of God’s readiness to restore and embrace those who turn to Him.

In Greek, the word for “repentance” is “μετάνοια” (metanoia). This term is derived from two Greek words: “μετά” (meta), meaning “after” or “beyond,” and “νοῦς” (nous), meaning “mind” or “thinking.” So, “metanoia” literally translates to “a change of mind” or “a transformation of one’s thoughts.” In the context of Christian theology, “metanoia” signifies a profound change of heart and mind, leading to a Devine revelation of Sin

The importance of a divine revelation of sin lies in its power to transform the way individuals perceive themselves, their actions, and their relationship with God. Without such revelation, sin may remain abstract or misunderstood, and individuals may not grasp the depth of its impact on their spiritual and moral lives. Here are a few key reasons why divine revelation is significant:

Awareness of Spiritual Reality: Divine revelation brings clarity to what sin truly is—not just a set of wrong actions, but a state of separation from God. It exposes the underlying condition of the heart that needs restoration.

Conviction and Transformation: When sin is revealed by God, it often leads to genuine conviction—a deep understanding of the need for forgiveness and grace. This conviction fosters true repentance and the desire to change.

Understanding Grace and Redemption: Without recognizing sin, the fullness of God’s grace and mercy might be harder to comprehend. A divine revelation of sin highlights the magnitude of God’s love and the significance of Christ’s sacrifice.

Guidance for Right Living: Such a revelation aligns an individual with God’s will, providing guidance on how to live a life that reflects holiness and integrity.

For many, this revelation is a deeply personal and spiritual experience, often occurring through prayer, scripture, or moments of introspection and divine intervention.

Faith:

Hebrews 11:1 (NASB) Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.

The Hebrew word commonly translated as “faith” in the Bible is אמונה (emunah). Its meaning extends beyond the simple concept of belief and encompasses a deeper sense of trust, loyalty, and steadfastness.

In Hebrew thought, faith is less about intellectual agreement and more about action and commitment. It implies a firm reliance on God’s character and promises, as well as a faithful response to His guidance. Emunah conveys a sense of stability and firmness, which is why it’s often associated with being faithful or dependable—much like the trustworthiness of God Himself.

This understanding adds richness to verses like Habakkuk 2:4: _”The righteous will live by his faith”_, suggesting not just belief but a life marked by faithfulness and trust in God.

The Greek word for “faith” is πίστις (pistis), which carries a rich and multifaceted meaning in biblical and classical Greek. It is often translated as “faith,” “trust,” or “belief,” but its depth goes beyond intellectual acknowledgment.

Trust and Confidence:

Pistis implies a deep trust or confidence in someone or something, often referring to trust in God and His promises.

Faithfulness and Reliability:

The word also embodies a sense of faithfulness, loyalty, and steadfastness. It suggests a commitment to remain true, much like how God is faithful to His covenant.

Conviction:

Pistis includes a strong conviction or assurance in spiritual truths, particularly those pertaining to God, salvation, and Christ.

In the New Testament, pistis emphasizes a personal relationship with God, characterized by trust and reliance on His grace. For example, Ephesians 2:8 highlights that faith (pistis) is a gift of God that leads to salvation.

It’s both an inward posture of the heart and an outward expression of that trust through actions.

A divine revelation of faith is crucial because it transcends mere intellectual belief and transforms faith into a deeply personal and spiritual experience. Such revelation brings clarity, assurance, and empowerment in ways that human reasoning alone cannot achieve.

Here are a few key reasons why it’s important:

Deepened Relationship with God: A divine revelation of faith fosters intimacy with God, as it opens the heart to truly understand His character, His promises, and His presence.

Strength in Challenges: When faith is revealed by God, it becomes unshakable. This assurance provides strength and peace in the face of uncertainty, doubt, or hardship.

Understanding Spiritual Truths: Divine revelation illuminates the meaning and significance of faith, helping individuals grasp spiritual truths that might otherwise be beyond human comprehension.

Activation of Purpose: Such a revelation often ignites a sense of purpose and calling, empowering individuals to live out their faith boldly and authentically.

Ultimately, divine revelation is a gift that transforms faith from a passive belief to an active and living trust in God.

Grace: ” Unmerited favor…”

The Hebrew word most often associated with “grace” in the Bible is חֵן (chen), which conveys the idea of favor, kindness, or graciousness. It signifies a gift or blessing freely given by a superior to an inferior, often without any merit or worthiness on the part of the recipient. The root of chen (חָנַן, chanan) means “to be gracious” or “to show favor.”

This concept of grace is beautifully expressed throughout the Old Testament. For example:
Genesis 6:8: “But Noah found favor (chen) in the eyes of the Lord.” Here, it shows God’s unearned favor toward Noah.

Psalm 84:11 “For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows grace and glory.”

In Hebrew thought, chen emphasizes the generous and undeserved nature of God’s love and kindness, often demonstrated through His covenantal relationship with His people. It reflects His willingness to forgive, bless, and uplift those who turn to Him.

The Greek word for “grace” is χάρις (charis), which holds a rich and layered meaning. In its essence, *charis* signifies favor, goodwill, or kindness that is freely and generously given, often without any merit on the recipient’s part. In a biblical context, charis takes on profound spiritual significance.

Unmerited Favor:

Charis describes God’s unearned kindness and mercy extended to humanity, as seen in the concept of salvation. For example, Ephesians 2:8 says, “For by grace (charis) you have been saved through faith…”.

Divine Enablement: Beyond favor, charis also refers to the empowering presence of God that enables believers to live according to His will. This aspect is evident in verses like 2 Corinthians 12:9, where God’s grace is described as sufficient in weakness.

Gratitude and Joy: The word charis is also linked to thankfulness and joy. It emphasizes the beauty of receiving and giving in a spirit of gratitude.

In Greek culture, charis could also signify charm or gracefulness, but in the New Testament, it became deeply associated with God’s redemptive love and His transformative gift to humanity.

A divine revelation of grace is profoundly important because it allows individuals to truly grasp the depth and richness of God’s unearned love and favor. Without such revelation, grace can remain an abstract or intellectual concept, rather than a transformative reality.

Here are a few key reasons why it matters:

Understanding God’s Character: A divine revelation of grace unveils the heart of God—His unconditional love, mercy, and generosity toward humanity. It emphasizes that His actions are based on His nature, not human performance.

Freedom from Condemnation: When grace is revealed, it frees individuals from the burden of guilt, shame, and the need to earn God’s approval. Romans 8:1 beautifully states, “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

Empowerment for Living: Grace isn’t just about forgiveness; it’s also about divine enablement. A revelation of grace empowers believers to live victoriously, relying on God’s strength rather than their own efforts.

Fostering Gratitude and Humility: Recognizing the unmerited nature of grace inspires heartfelt gratitude and a humble response, deepening one’s relationship with God and others.

Transforming Relationships: Experiencing God’s grace firsthand often leads to extending that same grace to others, fostering forgiveness, compassion, and reconciliation.

Ultimately, a divine revelation of grace moves the concept from the head to the heart, transforming how individuals see God, themselves, and the world.