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G278 · Greek · New Testament
ἀμεταμέλητος
Ametamelētos
Adjective
Irrevocable, without regret, not repented of

Definition

The Greek adjective ametamelētos is a compound of a- (not) and metamelomai (to regret, repent, change one's mind), meaning that which is not regretted, cannot be revoked, or is not subject to change of mind. It occurs twice in the New Testament — once applied to God's gifts and calling, and once to human repentance.

Usage & Theological Significance

Romans 11:29 — 'for God's gifts and his call are irrevocable' — is one of the most comforting statements in Scripture concerning divine faithfulness. The context is Paul's argument about Israel's future: despite their current rejection of the Gospel, God has not revoked His covenant promises. The theological principle applies universally: what God has given and called, He does not take back. This grounds the doctrine of perseverance — God's commitment to complete what He has begun (Philippians 1:6). In 2 Corinthians 7:10, the related word ametamelēton describes the godly sorrow that 'leads to salvation and leaves no regret' — true repentance that one need not regret having done.

Key Bible Verses

Romans 11:29 ...for God's gifts and his call are irrevocable.
2 Corinthians 7:10 Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.
Numbers 23:19 God is not human, that he should lie, not a human being, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?
Philippians 1:6 ...being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
Hebrews 6:17 Because God wanted to make the unchanging nature of his purpose very clear to the heirs of what was promised, he confirmed it with an oath.

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External Resources

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