Repentance

REPENTANCE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Acts 3:19

"Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord."

Supporting Texts:

Ezekiel 18:30-32, Luke 13:3, 2 Chronicles 7:14, 1 John 1:9, Proverbs 28:13

INTRODUCTION

Repentance is a foundational principle of the Christian faith. It is the first step in turning away from sin and embracing a new life in Christ. True repentance is not just feeling sorry for wrongdoing but involves a complete change of heart, mind, and actions. The Bible repeatedly calls people to repent as a necessary condition for receiving God’s mercy and restoration.

Repentance is a call to realignment with God’s will. It requires acknowledging sin, feeling godly sorrow, confessing our sins, and forsaking them. It is not just a one-time event but an ongoing process in the believer’s life. Even after salvation, we must continually examine ourselves and turn away from anything that displeases God.

Throughout Scripture, we see that repentance brings divine forgiveness, healing, and transformation. Whether in the lives of individuals like David or entire nations like Nineveh, turning back to God always leads to restoration. In this study, we will explore the meaning, necessity, process, and blessings of true repentance.

1. THE MEANING OF REPENTANCE

a) Repentance is a change of mind and direction (Ezekiel 18:30-31)

It means turning away from sin and choosing righteousness.

b) It involves genuine sorrow for sin (2 Corinthians 7:10)

Godly sorrow leads to repentance, while worldly sorrow leads to death.

c) Repentance requires confession and forsaking of sin (Proverbs 28:13)

Those who confess and forsake their sins obtain mercy.

d) It is not just about words but action (Matthew 3:8)

True repentance produces fruits of righteousness.

e) Biblical Example: The Prodigal Son (Luke 15:17-20)

He realised his sin, returned to his father, and was restored.

2. THE NECESSITY OF REPENTANCE

a) It is a command from God (Acts 17:30)

God commands all people everywhere to repent.

b) Without repentance, there is no forgiveness (Luke 24:47)

The gospel message includes repentance for the forgiveness of sins.

c) It is necessary for salvation (Luke 13:3)

Without repentance, people will perish spiritually.

d) It brings reconciliation with God (Isaiah 55:7)

When we turn from sin, God abundantly pardons us.

e) Biblical Example: Nineveh (Jonah 3:5-10)

The people repented, and God spared them from destruction.

3. THE PROCESS OF REPENTANCE

a) Acknowledging sin (Psalm 51:3-4)

We must recognise and admit our sins before God.

b) Feeling godly sorrow (2 Corinthians 7:10)

True repentance comes from deep remorse, not just fear of punishment.

c) Confessing sins (1 John 1:9)

God forgives those who confess and seek His mercy.

d) Forsaking sin and turning to God (Isaiah 55:7)

Repentance requires a decision to abandon sin completely.

e) Biblical Example: King David (Psalm 51:1-12)

David repented sincerely after his sin with Bathsheba and was restored.

4. THE BLESSINGS OF REPENTANCE

a) Forgiveness of sins (Acts 3:19)

God blots out our sins when we repent.

b) Restoration and refreshing from God (2 Chronicles 7:14)

Repentance brings revival and healing to individuals and nations.

c) Freedom from guilt and condemnation (Romans 8:1)

There is no condemnation for those who turn to Christ.

d) Access to God’s kingdom (Matthew 4:17)

Repentance is the key to entering God’s kingdom.

e) Biblical Example: Zacchaeus (Luke 19:8-10)

He repented by making restitution, and Jesus declared his salvation.

CONCLUSION

Repentance is a call that every believer must respond to. It is not just about escaping punishment but about restoring our relationship with God. True repentance leads to a transformed life, bringing peace, joy, and renewed fellowship with our heavenly Father.

God is always ready to forgive and restore those who sincerely repent. No matter how far a person has gone in sin, the mercy of God is available. Let us embrace repentance as a lifestyle and walk in the fullness of God’s grace.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, give me a repentant heart that is sensitive to Your voice.

2. Father, forgive my sins and cleanse me from all unrighteousness.

3. Holy Spirit, convict me whenever I stray from God’s path.

4. Lord, help me to turn away from every hidden sin in my life.

5. Father, let my repentance bring restoration and divine favour.