Often times repentance is short circuited. This is done by assuming that the forgiveness of sin, via a terse prayer,is sufficient for repentance. However, repentance does not equal forgiveness. Forgiveness is simply a part of repentance. Second, repentance is often short circuited by self-willed change. A self-willed change of behavior does not equal repentance. Third, forgiveness of sin and self-willed change is not sufficient for repentance. This is actually a gross offense to the Cross.
Bruce Ware mentions that true spiritual change involves the head, the heart and the hands. Tim Keller mentions that true spiritual change involves the intellect, affections and will. It is herein that repentance, i.e. biblical change, finds its full expression. Each component will be active for true repentance to occur.
Often the heart is the missing link. The heart is the octagon in which the spiritual battles are waged. As our minds are saturated with the truth of the Gospel our hearts are fueled for war. This is not self-willed warfare. This is Gospel-purchased-grace. This is Holy Spirit empowered skill and ability that over time will be trained and honed for wise living. This becomes the expression of our worship to God; a Gospel-Centered Life.
The Spirit illumines categories of truth to be intellectually established. Our heart's affection is supernaturally aroused for battle. In faith our hands begin to move upon God's enablement.
Hence, repentance is moving from being inactive, or a rebel to God's cause, to seeking forgiveness, claiming the cross, and actively engaging in the fight for faith. What must stand at the center of the octagon? The Cross! Repentance is simply making most of the cross; for it is our fountain of grace, the power to true biblical change.