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March 17, 2009 03:18:22
Posted By JLWallace
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Steps to Repentance
1. Change of mind
2. sorrow
3. submission
4. change or amendment of life
Abrogation or removal of any of these steps turns repentance into worldly sorrow and grace into lasciviousness.
True repentance is necessitated by a radical transformation of action, from that which is contrary to God to that which is in accordance with Him, His Word and His government.
To repent and to continue in sin (a theological dichotomy) reveals a false repentance and worldly sorrow. “I am sorry for and wish to escape the consequences of my sin.”
To repent and forsake sin reveals godly sorrow. “I am sorry for and willingly accept the repercussion for my actions before the God I have offended. “
For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death. ~ 2 Cor 7:10
Repentance: A change of mind (carnal to spiritual) with a corresponding change of action (autonomy to theonomy). This action is actual and not intangible (sin to righteousness). The nature is changed, no longer slaves to sin but servants of righteousness.
Jesus said you will know a man by his fruits (the consequence of actions). Being made free from sin of which fruit brings forth shame, we become servants of God and demonstrate fruits of holiness.
Living in violation of the law of God results in death. But forsaking sin and living in diligent obedience to God brings forth everlasting life.
For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. ~ Romans 6:23
Therefore true repentance is not a single action but unremitting, resulting in a continual audience before God. Sin separates us from God.
But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear. ~ Isaiah 59:2
Thus in order for repentance to be true our actions must agree with our thoughts. Repentance is not simply a mental assent but a determination to continue in a holy and righteous manner of living with the Lord Jesus Christ as our pattern.
He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked. ~ 1 John 2:6
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Categories:
Truth 101
