REPENT WHAT?
Wednesday, February 21, 2018
“repent” is 23
times in 22 OT verses. 24 in 22 NT verses. “repentance” is 25 in 25 in NT, only
once in OT John the Baptist emphasized “Repent
ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” From Jesus’ first preaching and continuing
thereafter he stated “Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” (Mt.3:2; 4:17)
Jesus pointed out “except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.” (Lk.13:1-5)
Hence repentance is essential exercise.
There are those
that ask with genuine concern sans defensive pride “But what am I to repent of?”
- their life not being a sinful swamp.
We could simply
quote Romans 3:23 “… all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God”, but would
it be a fully edifying response? I say no, for it is only the beginning of
understanding the why and wherefore of godly repentance. It is far better to
explain the meaning of “repent”: to rethink the meaning of life and thereby act
accordingly.
This then would
be a time to have the inquirer read an explaining translation like God’s Word
(GW Mt.3:2; 4:17) "Turn to God and change the way you think and act,
because the kingdom of heaven is near!" and then follow with Romans 12:1-3
that explains Christian repentance in more detail. “Brothers and sisters, in
view of all we have just shared about God's compassion, I encourage you to
offer your bodies as living sacrifices, dedicated to God and pleasing to him.
This kind of worship is appropriate for you. Don't become like the people of
this world. Instead, change the way you think. Then you will always be able to
determine what God really wants-what is good, pleasing, and perfect. Because of
the kindness that God has shown me, I ask you not to think of yourselves more
highly than you should. Instead, your thoughts should lead you to use good
judgment based on what God has given each of you as believers.”
Repent of what?
Particular sins, yes, but centrally of self . . . that which goes far above and
beyond anything I may deny self of for lent.
EBB4
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