The challenge of the gospel is the challenge of the human will. The challenge is not to get people to believe (John 2:23-24), confess (Luke 6:46), or be baptized (Matthew 3:6). The challenge of the gospel is the challenge of getting people to repent: to change what they need to change (Matthew 11:20-24). Sin has separated us from our God (Romans 3:23; 6:23). What are we to do with this guilt? This sin? Go to God and repent of it.
Repentance is not knowing we have done wrong. David knew he was wrong long before he repented (Psalm 32). Judas knew he was wrong and never repented (Matthew 27:3-5). Peter knew he was wrong before Paul called him out (Galatians 2:11-14).
Repentance is not feeling sorry about our sin. Judas felt bad about betraying Jesus. He was sure sorry he had done so. Yet he did not repent (Matthew 27:3-5).
Repentance is not regretting that your sin has caused pain to other people. Your sin affects everyone you know. Judas regretted the pain his sin caused Jesus. Yet, he did not repent (Matthew 27:1-5).
Repentance is not confessing your sin. To be sure, God would have us confess our sin (1 John 1:9). Saul confessed his wickedness and David’s righteousness (1 Samuel 24:17-19). Later, Saul confessed his sin to David (1 Samuel 26:21). Although Saul confessed, he did not repent.
Repentance is not a mere change of conduct. When Josiah set about to reform the southern
Repentance is a change of the heart resulting in a change of behavior. Repentance is a change of behavior that results from a change in our feeling toward God. Repentance must begin in the heart because this is where sin begins (Matthew 15:15-20). You have to make up your mind to serve God. Only you can give Him your heart. And so, you must repent: “I am sick of sin and from this day forward I am finished with that. I am Yours!”
Jason Cicero
