Repentance Basic Truths God wants His People to Know, Part 5 By Pastor Dan Kennedy © March 4, 2018 www.pastorkennedy.com No one is perfect. Everyone has failed to keep at least some of God’s Laws. All have sinned. Romans 3:23 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God… Sin brings repercussions Romans 6:23 23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Unfortunately, we naturally choose to be selfish and do what we want to do…even if we know it is against God’s Laws or is not kind or beneficial to others, and has terrible eternal repercussions. We naturally choose to allow anger, greed, covetousness, sensuality, pride, arrogance, resentment, and vengeance, etc., to have places in our lives. We see this pattern evidenced from a child’s earliest years, to the end of life. Illusive Perfection Everyone wishes they could live perfectly, but we somehow don’t even know what “being perfect” really means. The godless world around us has taught us that being perfect means we are more successful, more attractive, proud, wealthy and better than others we compare ourselves to – and that we have successfully avoided getting caught doing something others consider bad or the law considers illegal! We tend to think that we are “perfect” when we beat the system and win the accolades of those we want to impress! What about God’s Perfection? If we know that no one can achieve His perfection, how can anyone actually attain a relationship with a Holy God? How can a Holy God save me, a sinful person, and take me to live with Him forever in heaven and God still be Holy? What about the thousands, millions and billions of imperfect people who all call themselves “Christians” – how can heaven still be holy, if a majority of them go to heaven? After all, doesn’t it just take one imperfect person to spoil all of Heaven’s perfect Glory! Reconciliation with God and Our Cleansing from Sin is Only Because of Jesus! This is the reason Jesus Christ died, isn’t it! Jesus died on the cross to cleanse our sins so that those who believe on His Salvation, by God’s Grace, through faith, are cleansed, justified and reconciled with our Holy God! (Eph. 2:8-9) But, the Scripture tells us that Everyone needs repentance Repentance was the theme in the first recorded message Jesus preached! Mark 1:14–15 14 After John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God. 15 “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!” How is Salvation Through Jesus Christ related to Repentance? Repentance reflects our response to the conviction of sin, from the Holy Spirit, the reality of Our Desire to Serve a New Master and provides the Evidence of that Change. I was born under sin’s domain and have also chosen to serve under the jurisdiction and authority of the kingdom of this world and be obedient to the ruler of darkness – to fulfill the ambitions of this world, to satisfy the lusts of my flesh and to follow the carnal temptations from the devil. So, I must repent. I, by God’s Grace, repent and renounce the authority of the hidden things of darkness over my life, and choose instead, to yield my will, my passions, my hopes, desires and goals to the Lordship of Jesus Christ, who I now acknowledge to be my Savior and Lord. I continue to exercise this choice throughout my Christian life. 1. Repentance by Confessing my sin to God and asking His Forgiveness The Parable of the Self-Righteous and the Sinner Luke 18:9–14 9 To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everybody else, Jesus told this parable: 10 “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. 11 The Pharisee stood up and prayed about himself: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other men—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector. 12 I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.’ 13 “But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’ 14 “I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” Confession of My Sin to God is Absolutely Critical in Repentance, but What Else Does It Mean for Me to Repent? 2. True Repentance is Doing What We Know to be Right, Not Just Saying What We Think God or Others might Want to Hear, and then Not Repenting after All – Evidenced by a life that is not doing what is honorable to God. The Parable of the Two Sons Matthew 21:28–32 28 “What do you think? There was a man who had two sons. He went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work today in the vineyard.’ 29 “ ‘I will not,’ he answered, but later he changed his mind and went. 30 “Then the father went to the other son and said the same thing. He answered, ‘I will, sir,’ but he did not go. 31 “Which of the two did what his father wanted?” “The first,” they answered. Jesus said to them, “I tell you the truth, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you. 32 For John came to you to show you the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes did. And even after you saw this, you did not repent and believe him. 3. Those who have Repented evidence this by their life Producing Fruit in Keeping with their Repentance. Luke 3:7–14 7 John said to the crowds coming out to be baptized by him, “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? 8 Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. And do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham. 9 The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.” Here are some “fruits” showing transformed lives in Christ: Care Lovingly, not Arrogantly or Begrudgingly: Repentance from a “Proud, Better than You” attitude will cause one to graciously, lovingly and humbly Care and Share with Others in their Need. Works that reveal faith (James 2:22). Luke 3:10 “What should we do then?” the crowd asked. 11 John answered, “The man with two tunics should share with him who has none, and the one who has food should do the same.” o Is John telling the crowd that the repentant should be more philanthropic with their assets? o Is John telling the crowd that the repentant shouldn’t have too many worldly goods, so they should to give away their things to the poor? (Trusting in assets that do not last and not in God is something to be repentant about; but, do you believe that is John’s intent here?) o Is John telling the crowd that the repentant should stop being arrogant in their attitude toward the needy and should be truly caring and loving in their response to others who are less fortunate? I believe John the Baptist’s instruction to “the crowd” dealt with repenting from an attitude of arrogance, not merely a call for greater benevolence or philanthropic endeavors. o One can give everything they possess away, but without love, it is nothing (1 Cor. 13:3). o Remember the attitude of the Self-Righteous, who looked down on the sinner, in Jesus’ Luke 18:9–14 Parable on “The Sinner’s Prayer?” What attitude is revealed in giving: unrepentant or repentance … o If we are arrogant or selfish while begrudgingly giving to someone less fortunate, (Unrepentant) o Or, on the other hand, when we lovingly and graciously share with an open hand to others in need? (Repentant) Work Honestly: Repentance from Cheating and Deception to Benefit Your Success and Gain – will cause me to Be Honest.  Luke 3:12 Tax collectors also came to be baptized. “Teacher,” they asked, “what should we do?” 13 “Don’t collect any more than you are required to,” he told them. Serve Faithfully, without Malice, but with Contentment: Repentance from exercising Oppressive Power and Authority to Bring Selfish Benefit will cause me (as a Parent, Teacher or Person with Authority), to Serve Honestly, Faithfully and Contentedly, without Malice Luke 3:14 Then some soldiers asked him, “And what should we do?” He replied, “Don’t extort money and don’t accuse people falsely—be content with your pay.” Repentance, then is… 1. Confessing and Turning (Luke 18:9–14) Repentance is confessing our sin and turning away from wrong. Admitting our sin to God and turning away from that which we know, through our conscience and through God’s Word, will be destructive behavior, for ourselves, or others. 2. Doing, Not Just Saying (Matthew 21:28–32) 3. Revealed by Producing Fruit (Luke 3:7–14) Repentance is Producing Fruit in Keeping with Our Repentance A. Care Lovingly B. Work Honestly C. Serve Faithfully But, Repentance is one more thing… 4. Restoring Loss (Luke 19:1–10) Repentance is Restoring Loss which has happened when wrong Attitudes, Actions, or Activities, have caused problems and pain to others. Zacchaeus the Tax Collector Luke 19:1–10 19 Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. 2 A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy. 3 He wanted to see who Jesus was, but being a short man he could not, because of the crowd. 4 So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way. 5 When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” 6 So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly. 7 All the people saw this and began to mutter, “He has gone to be the guest of a ‘sinner.’ ” 8 But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, “Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.” (See Ex. 22:1) 9 Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. 10 For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost.” In our “old” and “carnal” life when we didn’t… Care Lovingly Work Honestly, or Serve Faithfully  We may have some lingering guilt for not being who we know God wanted us to be. Perhaps we sincerely want to be repentant and can remember a host of times when we may have dishonored God and others, but we honestly do not know where to begin to restore loss. Then, ask God to guide you in steps of repentance honorable to Him, in matters that may have caused loss to others. Do not be overwhelmed. Your intent is to honor God through your repentance. Write down a list and ask God to help you accomplish restoration, where possible, with each one, in His Time. Check them off one by one, as the Lord gives you opportunity to accomplish restoration. Note: Confession of sin, and restitution should generally be within the circle of those offended or to whom loss has been suffered. - Confession of sin is Always to God, first. 1 John 1:9 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. - Offense, if to an individual – then, Confession to that individual. - Offense, if to a group – then, Confession to that group. Both Confession and Restoration are ongoing events in a maturing Christian’s life. When we say or do something that is offensive, it should be our goal to make that offence right, if it is within our ability. In this way God will help us to keep a clear conscience before Him and others, whether or not an offence is totally clear for both sides (the other side may never want to apologize or to recognize our apology). The Apostle Paul said… Acts 24:16 16 …I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man. Sometimes a Believer has to bear the pain of something he or she has not done, to be honorable to the Lord, as Christ did (1 Pet. 2:19-23). God is our Judge. Consequences, both good and bad, are always part of the reality of righteousness and sin; and, the anticipation of hope for those who overcome. Repentance in Scripture One of the most profound incidences of repentance, God’s forgiveness, and terrible consequences is found in the Scriptural record of evil King Manasseh. Manasseh’s Gross Evil, his Repentance and Forgiveness, and God’s Judgment  2 Kings 21:9b–16 9b Manasseh led them astray, so that they did more evil than the nations the Lord had destroyed before the Israelites. 10 The Lord said through his servants the prophets: 11 “Manasseh king of Judah has committed these detestable sins. He has done more evil than the Amorites who preceded him and has led Judah into sin with his idols. 12 Therefore this is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: I am going to bring such disaster on Jerusalem and Judah that the ears of everyone who hears of it will tingle. 13 I will stretch out over Jerusalem the measuring line used against Samaria and the plumb line used against the house of Ahab. I will wipe out Jerusalem as one wipes a dish, wiping it and turning it upside down. 14 I will forsake the remnant of my inheritance and hand them over to their enemies. They will be looted and plundered by all their foes, 15 because they have done evil in my eyes and have provoked me to anger from the day their forefathers came out of Egypt until this day.” 16 Moreover, Manasseh also shed so much innocent blood that he filled Jerusalem from end to end—besides the sin that he had caused Judah to commit, so that they did evil in the eyes of the Lord. Sin Always has Consequences  God Restored Manasseh’s after his Personal Repentance, but the Consequences for his sin was Profound 2 Chronicles 33:10–13 10 The Lord spoke to Manasseh and his people, but they paid no attention. 11 So the Lord brought against them the army commanders of the king of Assyria, who took Manasseh prisoner, put a hook in his nose, bound him with bronze shackles and took him to Babylon. 12 In his distress he sought the favor of the Lord his God and humbled himself greatly before the God of his fathers. 13 And when he prayed to him, the Lord was moved by his entreaty and listened to his plea; so he brought him back to Jerusalem and to his kingdom. Then Manasseh knew that the Lord is God. What is seen in the example of Manasseh’s life, even after he repented is the terrible repercussion which fell on all of Israel had because of his sin – which led to the nation’s national sin, Jerusalem’s destruction and the dispersing of Israel to slavery in Babylon and to the ends of the earth. 2 Kings 23:26–27 26 Nevertheless, the Lord did not turn away from the heat of his fierce anger, which burned against Judah because of all that Manasseh had done to provoke him to anger. 27 So the Lord said, “I will remove Judah also from my presence as I removed Israel, and I will reject Jerusalem, the city I chose, and this temple, about which I said, ‘There shall my Name be.’” King David Repented of his sin (Psalm 51 – see ENDNOTES), but the king also suffered severe consequences because of his sin (2 Samuel 14-18). Esau, the Non-Repentant Repentant Hebrews 12:15–17 (ESV) 15 See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no “root of bitterness” springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled; 16 that no one is sexually immoral or unholy like Esau, who sold his birthright for a single meal. 17 For you know that afterward, when he desired to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no chance to repent, though he sought it with tears. Godly Sorrow = Repentance, leading to Salvation and no regret; Worldly Sorrow = Death 2 Corinthians 7:8–10 8 Even if I caused you sorrow by my letter, I do not regret it. Though I did regret it—I see that my letter hurt you, but only for a little while— 9 yet now I am happy, not because you were made sorry, but because your sorrow led you to repentance. For you became sorrowful as God intended and so were not harmed in any way by us. 10 Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death. Repentance is not always an extended virtue when the carnality of our weak will is displayed. 2 Corinthians 12:20–21 20 For I am afraid that when I come I may not find you as I want you to be, and you may not find me as you want me to be. I fear that there may be quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, factions, slander, gossip, arrogance and disorder. 21 I am afraid that when I come again my God will humble me before you, and I will be grieved over many who have sinned earlier and have not repented of the impurity, sexual sin and debauchery in which they have indulged. God allows trials, temptations and testing to augment the maturity of our spiritual growth, with a desire that we will overcome to be who God has purposed us to be, for eternity. Repentance, then is… 1. Confessing and Turning (Luke 18:9–14) 2. Doing, Not Just Saying (Matthew 21:28–32) 3. Revealed by Producing Fruit (Luke 3:7–14) A. Care Lovingly B. Work Honestly C. Serve Faithfully 4. Restoring Loss (Luke 19:1–10) Sin Always has Consequences May those who are seeking a relationship with God, come to Him in true repentance from sin, leading to Salvation. Because, conviction of sin and repentance are primary means whereby God draws men and women to Himself, to then establish the growing and maturing spiritual life in the Believer, through the indwelling life of His Holy Spirit. ______________ ENDNOTES Repentance in Scripture Matthew 11:20–24 20 Then Jesus began to denounce the cities in which most of his miracles had been performed, because they did not repent. 21 “Woe to you, Korazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! If the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. 22 But I tell you, it will be more bearable for Tyre and Sidon on the day of judgment than for you. 23 And you, Capernaum, will you be lifted up to the skies? No, you will go down to the depths. If the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Sodom, it would have remained to this day. 24 But I tell you that it will be more bearable for Sodom on the day of judgment than for you.” Luke 11:32 32 The men of Nineveh will stand up at the judgment with this generation and condemn it; for they repented at the preaching of Jonah, and now one greater than Jonah is here. Repent or Perish – Patience, if not Fruit, then Judgment Luke 13:1–9 13 Now there were some present at that time who told Jesus about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mixed with their sacrifices. 2 Jesus answered, “Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans because they suffered this way? 3 I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish. 4 Or those eighteen who died when the tower in Siloam fell on them—do you think they were more guilty than all the others living in Jerusalem? 5 I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish.” 6 Then he told this parable: “A man had a fig tree, planted in his vineyard, and he went to look for fruit on it, but did not find any. 7 So he said to the man who took care of the vineyard, ‘For three years now I’ve been coming to look for fruit on this fig tree and haven’t found any. Cut it down! Why should it use up the soil?’ 8 “ ‘Sir,’ the man replied, ‘leave it alone for one more year, and I’ll dig around it and fertilize it. 9 If it bears fruit next year, fine! If not, then cut it down.’ ” Rejoicing over Repentance – The Parable of the Lost Coin (Luke 15:8–32) 8 “Or suppose a woman has ten silver coins and loses one. Does she not light a lamp, sweep the house and search carefully until she finds it? 9 And when she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost coin.’ 10 In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” Repentance and The Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32) The Rich Man and Lazarus Luke 16:19–31 19 “There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and lived in luxury every day. 20 At his gate was laid a beggar named Lazarus, covered with sores 21 and longing to eat what fell from the rich man’s table. Even the dogs came and licked his sores. 22 “The time came when the beggar died and the angels carried him to Abraham’s side. The rich man also died and was buried. 23 In hell, where he was in torment, he looked up and saw Abraham far away, with Lazarus by his side. 24 So he called to him, ‘Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire.’ 25 “But Abraham replied, ‘Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, while Lazarus received bad things, but now he is comforted here and you are in agony. 26 And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, so that those who want to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there to us.’ 27 “He answered, ‘Then I beg you, father, send Lazarus to my father’s house, 28 for I have five brothers. Let him warn them, so that they will not also come to this place of torment.’ 29 “Abraham replied, ‘They have Moses and the Prophets; let them listen to them.’ 30 “ ‘No, father Abraham,’ he said, ‘but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.’ 31 “He said to him, ‘If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.’ ” Luke 24:46–49 46 He told them, “This is what is written: The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, 47 and repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 48 You are witnesses of these things. 49 I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.” Acts 2:37–38 37 When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” 38 Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Acts 3:18–23 18 But this is how God fulfilled what he had foretold through all the prophets, saying that his Christ would suffer. 19 Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord, 20 and that he may send the Christ, who has been appointed for you—even Jesus. 21 He must remain in heaven until the time comes for God to restore everything, as he promised long ago through his holy prophets. 22 For Moses said, ‘The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own people; you must listen to everything he tells you. 23 Anyone who does not listen to him will be completely cut off from among his people.’ Acts 17:30–31 30 In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent. 31 For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to all men by raising him from the dead.” Acts 20:20–21 20 You know that I have not hesitated to preach anything that would be helpful to you but have taught you publicly and from house to house. 21 I have declared to both Jews and Greeks that they must turn to God in repentance and have faith in our Lord Jesus. 2 Timothy 2:24–26 24 And the Lord’s servant must not quarrel; instead, he must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. 25 Those who oppose him he must gently instruct, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, 26 and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will. 2 Peter 3:8–11 8 But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. 9 The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. 10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare. 11 Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives A Prayer of Repentance by King David Psalm 51 For the director of music. A psalm of David. When the prophet Nathan came to him after David had committed adultery with Bathsheba. 1 Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. 2 Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. 3 For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. 4 Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight, so that you are proved right when you speak and justified when you judge. 5 Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me. 6 Surely you desire truth in the inner parts; you teach me wisdom in the inmost place. 7 Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. 8 Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones you have crushed rejoice. 9 Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity. 10 Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. 11 Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. 12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me. 13 Then I will teach transgressors your ways, and sinners will turn back to you. 14 Save me from bloodguilt, O God, the God who saves me, and my tongue will sing of your righteousness. 15 O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise. 16 You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings. 17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.

Repentance

Basic Truths God wants His People to Know, Part 5

By Pastor Dan Kennedy

www.pastorkennedy.com

No one is perfect. Everyone has failed to keep at least some of God’s Laws.

All have sinned.

Romans 3:23

23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God…

Sin brings repercussions

Romans 6:23

23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Unfortunately, we naturally choose to be selfish and do what we want to do…even if we know it is against God’s Laws or is not kind or beneficial to others, and has terrible eternal repercussions. We naturally choose to allow anger, greed, covetousness, sensuality, pride, arrogance, resentment, and vengeance, etc., to have places in our lives. We see this pattern evidenced from a child’s earliest years, to the end of life.

Illusive Perfection

Everyone wishes they could live perfectly, but we somehow don’t even know what “being perfect” really means. The godless world around us has taught us that being perfect means we are more successful, more attractive, proud, wealthy and better than others we compare ourselves to – and that we have successfully avoided getting caught doing something others consider bad or the law considers illegal! We tend to think that we are “perfect” when we beat the system and win the accolades of those we want to impress!

What about God’s Perfection?

If we know that no one can achieve His perfection, how can anyone actually attain a relationship with a Holy God?

How can a Holy God save me, a sinful person, and take me to live with Him forever in heaven and God still be Holy?

What about the thousands, millions and billions of imperfect people who all call themselves “Christians” – how can heaven still be holy, if a majority of them go to heaven? After all, doesn’t it just take one imperfect person to spoil all of Heaven’s perfect Glory!

Reconciliation with God and Our Cleansing from Sin is Only Because of Jesus!

This is the reason Jesus Christ died, isn’t it! Jesus died on the cross to cleanse our sins so that those who believe on His Salvation, by God’s Grace, through faith, are cleansed, justified and reconciled with our Holy God! (Eph. 2:8-9)

But, the Scripture tells us that Everyone needs repentance

Repentance was the theme in the first recorded message Jesus preached!

Mark 1:14–15

14 After John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God. 15 “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!”

How is Salvation Through Jesus Christ related to Repentance?

Repentance reflects our response to the conviction of sin, from the Holy Spirit, the reality of Our Desire to Serve a New Master and provides the Evidence of that Change.

• I was born under sin’s domain and have also chosen to serve under the jurisdiction and authority of the kingdom of this world and be obedient to the ruler of darkness – to fulfill the ambitions of this world, to satisfy the lusts of my flesh and to follow the carnal temptations from the devil.

So, I must repent.

• I, by God’s Grace, repent and renounce the authority of the hidden things of darkness over my life, and choose instead, to yield my will, my passions, my hopes, desires and goals to the Lordship of Jesus Christ, who I now acknowledge to be my Savior and Lord.

• I continue to exercise this choice throughout my Christian life.

1. Repentance by Confessing my sin to God and asking His Forgiveness

The Parable of the Self-Righteous and the Sinner

Luke 18:9–14

9 To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everybody else, Jesus told this parable: 10 “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. 11 The Pharisee stood up and prayed about himself: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other men—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector. 12 I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.’

13 “But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’

14 “I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”

Confession of My Sin to God is Absolutely Critical in Repentance, but

What Else Does It Mean for Me to Repent?

2. True Repentance is Doing What We Know to be Right, Not Just Saying What We Think God or Others might Want to Hear, and then Not Repenting after All – Evidenced by a life that is not doing what is honorable to God.

The Parable of the Two Sons

Matthew 21:28–32

28 “What do you think? There was a man who had two sons. He went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work today in the vineyard.’

29 “ ‘I will not,’ he answered, but later he changed his mind and went.

30 “Then the father went to the other son and said the same thing. He answered, ‘I will, sir,’ but he did not go.

31 “Which of the two did what his father wanted?”

“The first,” they answered.

Jesus said to them, “I tell you the truth, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you. 32 For John came to you to show you the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes did. And even after you saw this, you did not repent and believe him.

3. Those who have Repented evidence this by their life Producing Fruit in Keeping with their Repentance.

Luke 3:7–14

7 John said to the crowds coming out to be baptized by him, “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? 8 Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. And do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham. 9 The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.”

Here are some “fruits” showing transformed lives in Christ:

•Care Lovingly, not Arrogantly or Begrudgingly: Repentance from a “Proud, Better than You” attitude will cause one to graciously, lovingly and humbly Care and Share with Others in their Need. Works that reveal faith (James 2:22).

Luke 3:10 “What should we do then?” the crowd asked.

11 John answered, “The man with two tunics should share with him who has none, and the one who has food should do the same.”

oIs John telling the crowd that the repentant should be more philanthropic with their assets?

oIs John telling the crowd that the repentant shouldn’t have too many worldly goods, so they should to give away their things to the poor? (Trusting in assets that do not last and not in God is something to be repentant about; but, do you believe that is John’s intent here?)

oIs John telling the crowd that the repentant should stop being arrogant in their attitude toward the needy and should be truly caring and loving in their response to others who are less fortunate?

I believe John the Baptist’s instruction to “the crowd” dealt with repenting from an attitude of arrogance, not merely a call for greater benevolence or philanthropic endeavors.

oOne can give everything they possess away, but without love, it is nothing (1 Cor. 13:3).

oRemember the attitude of the Self-Righteous, who looked down on the sinner, in Jesus’ Luke 18:9–14 Parable on “The Sinner’s Prayer?”

What attitude is revealed in giving: unrepentant or repentance …

oIf we are arrogant or selfish while begrudgingly giving to someone less fortunate, (Unrepentant)

oOr, on the other hand, when we lovingly and graciously share with an open hand to others in need? (Repentant)

•Work Honestly: Repentance from Cheating and Deception to Benefit Your Success and Gain – will cause me to Be Honest.

Luke 3:12 Tax collectors also came to be baptized. “Teacher,” they asked, “what should we do?”

13 “Don’t collect any more than you are required to,” he told them.

•Serve Faithfully, without Malice, but with Contentment: Repentance from exercising Oppressive Power and Authority to Bring Selfish Benefit will cause me (as a Parent, Teacher or Person with Authority), to Serve Honestly, Faithfully and Contentedly, without Malice

Luke 3:14 Then some soldiers asked him, “And what should we do?”

He replied, “Don’t extort money and don’t accuse people falsely—be content with your pay.”

Repentance, then is…

1. Confessing and Turning (Luke 18:9–14)

Repentance is confessing our sin and turning away from wrong. Admitting our sin to God and turning away from that which we know, through our conscience and through God’s Word, will be destructive behavior, for ourselves, or others.

2. Doing, Not Just Saying (Matthew 21:28–32)

3. Revealed by Producing Fruit (Luke 3:7–14)

Repentance is Producing Fruit in Keeping with Our Repentance

A. Care Lovingly

B. Work Honestly

C. Serve Faithfully

But, Repentance is one more thing…

4. Restoring Loss (Luke 19:1–10)

Repentance is Restoring Loss which has happened when wrong Attitudes, Actions, or Activities, have caused problems and pain to others.

Zacchaeus the Tax Collector

Luke 19:1–10

19Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. 2 A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy. 3 He wanted to see who Jesus was, but being a short man he could not, because of the crowd. 4 So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way.

5 When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” 6 So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly.

7 All the people saw this and began to mutter, “He has gone to be the guest of a ‘sinner.’ ”

8 But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, “Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.” (See Ex. 22:1)

9 Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. 10 For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost.”

In our “old” and “carnal” life when we didn’t…

•Care Lovingly
•Work Honestly, or
•Serve Faithfully

We may have some lingering guilt for not being who we know God wanted us to be.

Perhaps we sincerely want to be repentant and can remember a host of times when we may have dishonored God and others, but we honestly do not know where to begin to restore loss. Then, ask God to guide you in steps of repentance honorable to Him, in matters that may have caused loss to others. Do not be overwhelmed. Your intent is to honor God through your repentance. Write down a list and ask God to help you accomplish restoration, where possible, with each one, in His Time. Check them off one by one, as the Lord gives you opportunity to accomplish restoration.

Note: Confession of sin, and restitution should generally be within the circle of those offended or to whom loss has been suffered.

- Confession of sin is Always to God, first.

1 John 1:9

9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

- Offense, if to an individual – then, Confession to that individual.

- Offense, if to a group – then, Confession to that group.

Both Confession and Restoration are ongoing events in a maturing Christian’s life.

When we say or do something that is offensive, it should be our goal to make that offence right, if it is within our ability. In this way God will help us to keep a clear conscience before Him and others, whether or not an offence is totally clear for both sides (the other side may never want to apologize or to recognize our apology).

The Apostle Paul said…

Acts 24:16

16 …I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man.

Sometimes a Believer has to bear the pain of something he or she has not done, to be honorable to the Lord, as Christ did (1 Pet. 2:19-23). God is our Judge. Consequences, both good and bad, are always part of the reality of righteousness and sin; and, the anticipation of hope for those who overcome.

Repentance in Scripture

One of the most profound incidences of repentance, God’s forgiveness, and terrible consequences is found in the Scriptural record of evil King Manasseh.

•Manasseh’s Gross Evil, his Repentance and Forgiveness, and God’s Judgment

2 Kings 21:9b–16

9b Manasseh led them astray, so that they did more evil than the nations the Lord had destroyed before the Israelites.

10 The Lord said through his servants the prophets: 11 “Manasseh king of Judah has committed these detestable sins. He has done more evil than the Amorites who preceded him and has led Judah into sin with his idols. 12 Therefore this is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: I am going to bring such disaster on Jerusalem and Judah that the ears of everyone who hears of it will tingle. 13 I will stretch out over Jerusalem the measuring line used against Samaria and the plumb line used against the house of Ahab. I will wipe out Jerusalem as one wipes a dish, wiping it and turning it upside down. 14 I will forsake the remnant of my inheritance and hand them over to their enemies. They will be looted and plundered by all their foes, 15 because they have done evil in my eyes and have provoked me to anger from the day their forefathers came out of Egypt until this day.”

16 Moreover, Manasseh also shed so much innocent blood that he filled Jerusalem from end to end—besides the sin that he had caused Judah to commit, so that they did evil in the eyes of the Lord.

•Sin Always has Consequences

God Restored Manasseh’s after his Personal Repentance, but the Consequences for his sin was Profound

2 Chronicles 33:10–13

10 The Lord spoke to Manasseh and his people, but they paid no attention. 11 So the Lord brought against them the army commanders of the king of Assyria, who took Manasseh prisoner, put a hook in his nose, bound him with bronze shackles and took him to Babylon. 12 In his distress he sought the favor of the Lord his God and humbled himself greatly before the God of his fathers. 13 And when he prayed to him, the Lord was moved by his entreaty and listened to his plea; so he brought him back to Jerusalem and to his kingdom. Then Manasseh knew that the Lord is God.

What is seen in the example of Manasseh’s life, even after he repented is the terrible repercussion which fell on all of Israel had because of his sin – which led to the nation’s national sin, Jerusalem’s destruction and the dispersing of Israel to slavery in Babylon and to the ends of the earth.

2 Kings 23:26–27

26 Nevertheless, the Lord did not turn away from the heat of his fierce anger, which burned against Judah because of all that Manasseh had done to provoke him to anger. 27 So the Lord said, “I will remove Judah also from my presence as I removed Israel, and I will reject Jerusalem, the city I chose, and this temple, about which I said, ‘There shall my Name be.’”

•King David Repented of his sin (Psalm 51 – see ENDNOTES), but the king also suffered severe consequences because of his sin (2 Samuel 14-18).

•Esau, the Non-Repentant Repentant

Hebrews 12:15–17 (ESV)

15 See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no “root of bitterness” springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled; 16 that no one is sexually immoral or unholy like Esau, who sold his birthright for a single meal. 17 For you know that afterward, when he desired to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no chance to repent, though he sought it with tears.

Godly Sorrow = Repentance, leading to Salvation and no regret;

Worldly Sorrow = Death

2 Corinthians 7:8–10

8 Even if I caused you sorrow by my letter, I do not regret it. Though I did regret it—I see that my letter hurt you, but only for a little while— 9 yet now I am happy, not because you were made sorry, but because your sorrow led you to repentance. For you became sorrowful as God intended and so were not harmed in any way by us. 10 Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.

Repentance is not always an extended virtue when the carnality of our weak will is displayed.

2 Corinthians 12:20–21

20 For I am afraid that when I come I may not find you as I want you to be, and you may not find me as you want me to be. I fear that there may be quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, factions, slander, gossip, arrogance and disorder. 21 I am afraid that when I come again my God will humble me before you, and I will be grieved over many who have sinned earlier and have not repented of the impurity, sexual sin and debauchery in which they have indulged.

God allows trials, temptations and testing to augment the maturity of our spiritual growth, with a desire that we will overcome to be who God has purposed us to be, for eternity.

Repentance, then is…

1. Confessing and Turning (Luke 18:9–14)

2. Doing, Not Just Saying (Matthew 21:28–32)

3. Revealed by Producing Fruit (Luke 3:7–14)

A. Care Lovingly

B. Work Honestly

C. Serve Faithfully

4. Restoring Loss (Luke 19:1–10)

•Sin Always has Consequences

May those who are seeking a relationship with God, come to Him in true repentance from sin, leading to Salvation. Because, conviction of sin and repentance are primary means whereby God draws men and women to Himself, to then establish the growing and maturing spiritual life in the Believer, through the indwelling life of His Holy Spirit.

______________

ENDNOTES

Repentance in Scripture

Matthew 11:20–24

20 Then Jesus began to denounce the cities in which most of his miracles had been performed, because they did not repent. 21 “Woe to you, Korazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! If the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. 22 But I tell you, it will be more bearable for Tyre and Sidon on the day of judgment than for you. 23 And you, Capernaum, will you be lifted up to the skies? No, you will go down to the depths. If the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Sodom, it would have remained to this day. 24 But I tell you that it will be more bearable for Sodom on the day of judgment than for you.”

Luke 11:32

32 The men of Nineveh will stand up at the judgment with this generation and condemn it; for they repented at the preaching of Jonah, and now one greater than Jonah is here.

Repent or Perish – Patience, if not Fruit, then Judgment

Luke 13:1–9

13 Now there were some present at that time who told Jesus about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mixed with their sacrifices. 2 Jesus answered, “Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans because they suffered this way? 3 I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish. 4 Or those eighteen who died when the tower in Siloam fell on them—do you think they were more guilty than all the others living in Jerusalem? 5 I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish.”

6 Then he told this parable: “A man had a fig tree, planted in his vineyard, and he went to look for fruit on it, but did not find any. 7 So he said to the man who took care of the vineyard, ‘For three years now I’ve been coming to look for fruit on this fig tree and haven’t found any. Cut it down! Why should it use up the soil?’

8 “ ‘Sir,’ the man replied, ‘leave it alone for one more year, and I’ll dig around it and fertilize it. 9 If it bears fruit next year, fine! If not, then cut it down.’ ”

Rejoicing over Repentance – The Parable of the Lost Coin (Luke 15:8–32)

8 “Or suppose a woman has ten silver coins and loses one. Does she not light a lamp, sweep the house and search carefully until she finds it? 9 And when she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost coin.’ 10 In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”

Repentance and The Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32)

The Rich Man and Lazarus

Luke 16:19–31

19 “There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and lived in luxury every day. 20 At his gate was laid a beggar named Lazarus, covered with sores 21 and longing to eat what fell from the rich man’s table. Even the dogs came and licked his sores.

22 “The time came when the beggar died and the angels carried him to Abraham’s side. The rich man also died and was buried. 23 In hell, where he was in torment, he looked up and saw Abraham far away, with Lazarus by his side. 24 So he called to him, ‘Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire.’

25 “But Abraham replied, ‘Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, while Lazarus received bad things, but now he is comforted here and you are in agony. 26 And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, so that those who want to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there to us.’

27 “He answered, ‘Then I beg you, father, send Lazarus to my father’s house, 28 for I have five brothers. Let him warn them, so that they will not also come to this place of torment.’

29 “Abraham replied, ‘They have Moses and the Prophets; let them listen to them.’

30 “ ‘No, father Abraham,’ he said, ‘but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.’

31 “He said to him, ‘If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.’ ”

Luke 24:46–49

46 He told them, “This is what is written: The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, 47 and repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 48 You are witnesses of these things. 49 I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.”

Acts 2:37–38

37 When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?”

38 Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Acts 3:18–23

18 But this is how God fulfilled what he had foretold through all the prophets, saying that his Christ would suffer. 19 Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord, 20 and that he may send the Christ, who has been appointed for you—even Jesus. 21 He must remain in heaven until the time comes for God to restore everything, as he promised long ago through his holy prophets. 22 For Moses said, ‘The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own people; you must listen to everything he tells you. 23 Anyone who does not listen to him will be completely cut off from among his people.’

Acts 17:30–31

30 In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent. 31 For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to all men by raising him from the dead.”

Acts 20:20–21

20 You know that I have not hesitated to preach anything that would be helpful to you but have taught you publicly and from house to house. 21 I have declared to both Jews and Greeks that they must turn to God in repentance and have faith in our Lord Jesus.

2 Timothy 2:24–26

24 And the Lord’s servant must not quarrel; instead, he must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. 25 Those who oppose him he must gently instruct, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, 26 and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.

2 Peter 3:8–11

8 But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. 9 The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.

10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare.

11 Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives

A Prayer of Repentance by King David

Psalm 51

For the director of music. A psalm of David. When the prophet Nathan came to him after David had committed adultery with Bathsheba.

1 Have mercy on me, O God,

according to your unfailing love;

according to your great compassion

blot out my transgressions.

2 Wash away all my iniquity

and cleanse me from my sin.

3 For I know my transgressions,

and my sin is always before me.

4 Against you, you only, have I sinned

and done what is evil in your sight,

so that you are proved right when you speak

and justified when you judge.

5 Surely I was sinful at birth,

sinful from the time my mother conceived me.

6 Surely you desire truth in the inner parts;

you teach me wisdom

in the inmost place.

7 Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean;

wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.

8 Let me hear joy and gladness;

let the bones you have crushed rejoice.

9 Hide your face from my sins

and blot out all my iniquity.

10 Create in me a pure heart, O God,

and renew a steadfast spirit within me.

11 Do not cast me from your presence

or take your Holy Spirit from me.

12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation

and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.

13 Then I will teach transgressors your ways,

and sinners will turn back to you.

14 Save me from bloodguilt, O God,

the God who saves me,

and my tongue will sing of your righteousness.

15 O Lord, open my lips,

and my mouth will declare your praise.

16 You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it;

you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings.

17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit;

a broken and contrite heart,

O God, you will not despise.