Repentance

Dictionary.com defines it as: 1) deep sorrow,compunction, or contrition for a past sin, wrongdoing,or the like. 2) regret for any past action.

In both definitions, common factor is "past actions".

The term repentance as used in the original context in the Bible means: the change of mind of those who have begun to abhor their errors and misdeeds, and have determined to enter upon a better course of life, so that it embraces both a recognition of sin and sorrow for it and hearty amendment, the tokens and effects of which are good deeds.

True repentance means turning 180 degrees from sin. Jesus called the sinners to repentance, not just to be sorry for our sins. He is a merciful God, and yes, He loves us unconditionally. But He is also a just God. He cannot let a sin go unpunished. That is why He promised to forgive us when we confess our sins (1 John 1:9). But that does not stop there. We have to repent, as Jesus said. Romans 2:4-5 clearly says that as we continue sinning, God's kindnesses should lead us to repentance, otherwise it is showing contempt. Romans 6:1-2, 8-14 talks about being dead to sin; to offer our bodies to God and not to sin. It is a struggle, granted, but continuing in sin and repenting from sin are two different things. We cannot do it on our own, that is why Paul in the book of Romans talked about the grace of God available to us as we desire to live according to His will and great purpose. And as we stumble and fall, and sin as we may call it, then He is faithful and gracious to forgive us, so we can stand up again and continue the fight. True repentance involves a change of mind and heart on the sins that held us captive, it is past tense, not present tense. When God asked us to offer ourselves as a living sacrifice, He meant "a broken spirit and a contrite heart" (Psalm 51:16-17) not "burnt offerings" as in our labor or acts of goodness". We cannot bribe God, if our good deeds are enough to gain favor and forgiveness for our sins, then Christ died in vain.

If we say we are in Christ, then our body is the Temple of the Holy Spirit whom we received from Him; we are not our own. And since we were bought for a price, therefore we should honor God with our bodies (1 Corinthians 6:12-20)

"Therefore, brothers,we have an obligation - but it is not to our sinful nature; to live according to it." (Romans 8:12.)

You may have given your heart to Jesus, and have asked for forgiveness, but are you ready and willing to repent, to turn 180 degrees from the sins that have kept you in captive, and fully surrender your life to Him?

"I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." (Luke 5:32)

Created 5 months ago