Then there are many passages that emphasize that God does not change. Psalm 102:25-17, Malachi 3:6, and James 1:17 are typical passages used in this connection.

Rather than say that the Bible is contradicting itself (which people who have a low view of Scripture would say without hesitation), we seek other explanations for the biblical language.

One explanation worth considering is that God is using "anthropomorphic" and "antropopathic" language in the Bible to reveal things about himself to us who have limited ability to g.html the fullness of God's being. What these words mean is simply that God describes himself as having eyes, ears, hands, arms, etc., even though he is spirit and has none of these body members as we creatures do. But the terms are helpful to us in revealing the truth that God sees, hears, takes action, etc. Similarly, God may describe himself as growing happy, sad, or grieving and being disappointed to emphasize how he judges human behavior and attitude. He really does not change, but uses figurative language that could be understood that way.

More could be said. The word that is translated “repent” or “repented” means “to be sorry for” and does not necessarily indicate a change, but simply a state of regret or a change in a course of action to accomplish his will. These passages do not show that a change in the character of God occurred, or that God did something contrary to His character. Your pastor likely has books or articles that can go into more detail on these points. Ask him.