Salvation is from something, namely a life of sin against God, which results in eternal separation from Him. The convert is saved from rebellion against God, and from the consequences of that rebellion, through the operation of the Holy Spirit in regeneration. In this new birth, the convert is given a new heart; a new nature. In his new nature, he now repents of his sin by turning to God in faith; faith for salvation. Repentance and faith are both gifts from God, which He brings about through regeneration. If one does not repent, he is not regenerated. If he repents, he places his faith and trust in Christ’s sacrifice.

Saving faith is penitent because it seeks forgiveness of sin. One who does not repent does not desire forgiveness. Regeneration produces repentance that seeks salvation. Saving repentance has faith that the turning from sin to God will result in forgiveness and eternal life. Thus, repentance and faith are interdependent. Apart from repentance there is no desire for salvation, since the one who repents seeks a new life. Apart from faith there is no means of salvation, for salvation comes through faith (knowing, believing and trusting) in the means of forgiveness, which is Christ’s death on the cross. Repentance and faith are the two sides of the coin of salvation