The doctrine of repentance-Part III

For review, without repentance, a person cannot have a relationship with God leaving that person separated in the present but also for eternity.  Those who do not repent of sin will face Hell as their eternal damnation and judgment.  This is the high price to pay for not taking repentance seriously in life (Matthew 25:33, 41, 46).  To be righteous reflects right standing with God (1 John 3:7; 5:18; Philippians 1:11).

Those who are not righteous practice lawlessness.  A lawless person does not desire to be regulated.  Repentance is the only way to have one’s name in the Book of Life (Revelation 3:5; 21:27; Luke 10:20; Philippians 4:3).  Repentance is the only way to escape Hell through salvation.  Repentance affords forgiveness and salvation affords eternal life but those only come through Jesus Christ.  Jesus states that everyone must be born again to enter into the kingdom of God (John 3:5, 7). 

God will not destroy those who have repented for their sins and walk with Him daily in their salvation.  His promises to those who repent are life and life more abundantly (John 10:10).  Repentance is part of this conversion when applied with faith in Who Jesus is.  If a person chooses not to repent and be born again, they are denying receiving the free eternal gift of life God has for them (John 10:10; Romans 6:23).  Jesus has already paid the price for everyone’s conversion but repentance through faith is subject to each person’s choice for their life (John 3:16-21).  John 3:16-21 paints the picture of repentance in action but many overlook the heart of what is being said.  God made a plan of salvation for mankind to repent for the restoration of fellowship with Him through Jesus Christ, His Son. 

Those who believe in Jesus and submit to the conviction of the Holy Spirit are converted through repentance and faith.  This sets them apart for everlasting life and a lack of condemnation.  Those who do not believe are already on their way to Hell and condemnation unless repentance takes place.  When those who believe and are converted come to the light they produce fruit of repentance (Matthew 3:8; Galatians 5:22-23) while those who choose to not come to the light remain in darkness with their works of the flesh (Galatians 5:19-21).

The need for repentance is great within the lives of every human being.  Without repentance, death is not only the eternal choice of residence but the dominating force being paid as the wages of sin (Romans 6:23) while on the earth.  With such a great need for repentance, why are so many people not being taught this eternal principle?  Why do so many people lack the heart to commit to such a requirement by God after they learn of repentance?  Why are so many people not ensuring their soul’s current and eternal position in God through Jesus Christ knowing the price of lawlessness is hell?  The answer is selfishness. 

Repentance is based on humility and the realization of needing God.  When characteristics arise that oppose humility the realization of a need for God begins to lessen creating a stubborn, lawless person who would rather choose the pleasure of sin for a season than God for all eternity.  Humility should lead to repentance.  Repentance leads to life, wisdom, and forgiveness (Proverbs 22:4; Proverbs 11:2; 2 Chronicles 7:14).  May people everywhere see their need for repentance and make the changes necessary to live for God.  For more information about Abundant Grace Church visit agcsparta.org.