The first verb (epistrepho) emphasizes the idea of turning back and is used on a number of occasions for converting or returning to the Lord (Acts 26:20). The Thessalonians turned to God, from idols, to serve the living and true God (1 Thess. 1:9). The second verb (metamelomai) occurs relatively rarely in the New Testament (Matt. 21:29, 32; 27:3; 2 Cor. 7:8; Heb. 7:21). It conveys the idea of regret. It is a state of mind that may or may not be accompanied by returning to God.
