What role does repentance play in your personal faith journey? The Call to Repentance in Acts 26:20 “but I preached first to those in Damascus, then in Jerusalem and throughout Judea, and to the Gentiles as well, telling them to repent and turn to God, and to demonstrate their repentance by their deeds.” (Acts 26:20) Repentance as the First Response to the Gospel - Repentance is the opening step when the Holy Spirit convicts the heart. - It is more than regret; it is a decisive turning from sin toward God. - Mark 1:15 highlights the order: “Repent and believe in the gospel!” — belief is inseparable from turning. Turning and Trusting: Two Sides of One Coin - Acts 26:20 pairs “repent” with “turn to God,” showing repentance is not merely turning away from something but toward Someone. - Faith without repentance is hollow; repentance without faith is despair. Together they bring us into relationship with Christ. A Lifestyle, Not a One-Time Event - While repentance begins at conversion, it continues daily as we grow. - 1 John 1:9 promises ongoing cleansing as we confess. - Luke 9:23 echoes the daily rhythm: “take up your cross daily.” Fruits Worthy of Repentance - Paul insists on “deeds” that display inner change (Acts 26:20). - Examples of fruit: Restitution where we have wronged (Luke 19:8). Forgiving others (Ephesians 4:32). Pursuing holiness (Hebrews 12:14). - Proverbs 28:13 reminds that open confession and renouncing sin invite mercy. Repentance and Assurance of Salvation - 2 Corinthians 7:10 distinguishes godly sorrow (leading to salvation) from self-centered remorse. - Genuine repentance brings peace, not perpetual guilt, because forgiveness is secured in Christ. Practical Steps to Walk in Daily Repentance - Invite the Spirit’s search (Psalm 139:23-24). - Keep short accounts with God—confess quickly. - Replace old habits with new obedience (Ephesians 4:22-24). - Surround yourself with believers who speak truth in love (James 5:16). - Celebrate grace; gratitude fuels continued turning. Encouragement from Scripture - Acts 2:38—Repentance opens the way for forgiveness and the Spirit’s power. - Luke 13:3—Repentance is urgent, not optional. - Revelation 3:19—“Those I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent.” His call proves His love. Repentance, then, is the doorway into faith and the pathway of ongoing growth. It is how we begin with Christ, how we return when we wander, and how we keep in step with His Spirit every day. |
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