1.This morning we studied a number of statements that were made in connection with the establishment of God's kingdom. 2.In Mark 1:15 Jesus made one such statement -- He said that the kingdom was "at hand." 3.This evening we are concentrating on a command that Jesus gave as He announced that the kingdom would soon be established -- "repentance."
Discussion:
I.JESUSEMPHASIZEDREPENTANCETHROUGHOUTHISMINISTRY
A.We have seen from Mark 1:15 that Jesus called upon people to repent as He began His ministry. B.In Mark 2:17 Jesus said that He came to call "sinners to repentance." C.Jesus included repentance in His Great Commission (Luke 24:46-47).
II.WHATISREPENTANCE?
A.Repent: "to change the mind" 1.The Bible teaches that God repented on a number of occasions. a.Examples: 1)(1 Samuel 15:11)"It repenteth me that I have set up Saul to be king." 2)(Jonah 3:10) "And God repented of the evil, that He had said that He would do unto them; and He did it not." b.What did God do when He repented? (He changed His mind) 2.(Luke 15:17) The prodigal son repented "when he came to himself." 3.Repentance is a change of mind; however, . . . B.The fruit of repentance is a change of life. 1.(Matthew 3:7-8) John said to the Pharisees and Sadducees who came to his baptism, "Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance." 2.(Acts 3:19) Peter said, "Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out." C.Repentance is much more than being sorry for something we have done -- it is a change of mind that results in a change of life (Matthew 21:28-32).
III.WHOISREQUIREDTOREPENT?
A.Everyone (2 Peter 3:9 -- The Lord is "not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance"). B.To be more specific,: 1.non-Christians must repent in order to be saved (Acts 2:38) 2.Christians must repent when we sin (Acts 8:22). C.According to Jesus, everyone who fails to repent will perish (Luke 13:3, 5).
A.the goodness of God (Romans 2:4) B.judgment to come (Acts 17:30-31) C.godly sorrow for sin (2 Corinthians 7:10).
Conclusion:
1.We began our lesson by showing how Jesus commanded repentance when He announced that the kingdom of God was near. 2.We have shown from the Scriptures that repentance is a requirement for: a.entering God's kingdom b.remaining in God's kingdom. 3.Repentance is a challenge for some people because it requires humility and submission to God's will. 4.Being aware of sin and admitting sin are also required. 5.Nevertheless, when an individual repents,: a.inner peace can be experienced b.joy is experienced in heaven (Luke 15:10 -- "Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth").
