Changing your ways

August 31, 2023

Repentance is required to be a servent of God, and is a continuous practice in sanctification. But what does the word mean according to the word of God, and how does one genuinely repent?

Background
Jesus explained to Nicodemus, a Pharisee, that no one can see the kingdom of God without first being born again (John 3:3). To honestly repent of sin, one must first have a knowledge of their transgressions against God and come to the colcusion that they need to change their ways (James 1:21; 1 Peter 2:1). In other words, repentance is one who changes their mind from their old ways of living to then seek the will of God in their new understanding.

What is sin?
Sin is the transgression of the law (1 John 3:4). Alternatively, sin is rebellion against God and His will. The penalty for any sin without propitiation is death (Romans 6:23). Repentance is not a mere regret or sorrow but a change of thought that leads one to serve God. Instead of living in sin, one must confess that they have fallen short of the glory of God. No one can offer propitiation to the Lord on their own and so His mercy and forgiveness must be pursued. One can be justified in the eyes of God by coming to faith in Christ (Romans 5:1). Additionally, doing the will of God should be manifested in the day-to-day lives of all His faithful followers (Matthew 7:21).

Worldly attractions
Repentance includes turning from sin, but also turning away from the things and activities in this world that are contrary to the will of God. Everything you do must be for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31; Colossians 3:17). Engaging in worldly attractions such as concerts, bars, parties, clubs, sports, the majority of television, movies, video games, and music, and anything else related should be avoided in your new walk with God. Making a lifestyle of these pursuits can cause you to disregard the will of God due to the negative influences. In other words, you are what you behold. We are sternly warned in scripture that if one participates in the carnal things of this earth, then they are an enemy of God, and their love for Him is nullified (1 John 2:15; James 4:4). Rather, we were created and are called to do the will of God (Romans 12:2; Ephesians 5:17).

The narrow path
Your new life walking with Christ will not be easy in this world, and is impossible on your own. The path of salvation is narrow and straight, and very few in this world will find and follow that path (Matthew 7:14). To truly repent is to change your mind and turn from all things that are contrary to the will of God. You will be convicted by God if change is required (2 Timothy 2:24-26, John 16:7-11). A conviction is not a mere feeling, but a conscience understanding that leads one to do better to the glory of God. Willful and continuous disobedience to God could put one's salvation at jeopardy (Hebrews 10:26; Ephesians 4:30; 1 Thessalonians 5:19; Genesis 6:3).