to obtain God’s favor one must repent What did John the baptizer and Jesus preach early in their ministry? (Matthew 3:1-2; 4:17, Mk 1:15) John knew not only preached baptism, but also the need for change (Matthew 3:7-9)
What would Jesus’ message be for us? What was the Lord’s message to churches which were in Asia? Church of Ephesus (Rev 2:5) Church in Pergamos (Rev 2:16) Church in Thyatira (Rev 2:20-22) Church in Sardis (Rev 3:3) Church in Laodicea (Rev 3:19-20)
“Do works befitting repentance” Acts 26:18
“Repentance” G3341 μετάνοια metanoia 1) a change of mind, as it appears to one who repents, of a purpose he has formed or of something he has done Part of Speech: noun feminine A Related Word by Thayer’s/Strong’s Number: from G3340 Citing in TDNT: 4:975, 636 *Thayer’s Greek Definitions*
“Repentance” G3341 μετάνοια metanoia met-an'-oy-ah From G3340; (subjectively) compunction (for guilt, including reformation); by implication reversal (of [another’s] decision): - repentance. *Strong’s Hebrew and Greek Dictionaries*
“Repentance” Repentance is brought about from knowledge of God's will. God tells us what sin is. (1 John 3:4; 5:17) This command is for all who’ve committed sin (Acts 17:30); even those who have already been baptized (Acts 8:22-23).
What is True repentance? Godly sorrow must come before repentance. (2 Corinthians 7:10) Godly sorrow involves a complete focus on God. (Psalm 51:1-4) Repentance is making that determination to change (Psalm 51:5-7) Repentance has fruits that will follow. (Matthew 3:7-8)
Things that may prevent repentance Refusal to admit wrongdoing… “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, But he who heeds counsel is wise.” (Prov 12:15 NKJV) “All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, But the Lord weighs the spirits. 3 Commit your works to the Lord, And your thoughts will be established.” (Prov 16:2-3 NKJV)
Things that may prevent repentance Fear of the consequences… David’s actions brought strong consequences. (2 Sam 12:9-12, 14) David offered no excuses (2Sam 12:13)
Things that may prevent repentance Refusal to pay the full price. We must surrender all (Lk 9:23-24; 14:33) Learn and live a new way. (Acts 19:17-20)
Fruits of repentance? How do I view/treat others? (Lk 18:9-11; Mt 9:10-11; 1Cor 12:20-25) Am I willing to be tested? (Jn 9:32-34; Lk 12:1-3) Is the joy of repentance in my life? (Ps 51:13-19)
Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What Hebrews 13:5-6 “Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you." 6 So we may boldly say: "The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What Can man do to me?" (NKJV)
“Do works befitting repentance” Acts 26:18