1. Growing in the knowledge of Christ is an important responsibility (2 Peter 3:18). 2. Searching the Scriptures is the key to accomplishing this growth (John 5:39). 3. As we examine Scriptures that inform us about the Lord's ministry we see that His primary work was "teaching and preaching" (Matthew 11:1). 4. In His teaching and preaching Jesus addressed many important subjects, one of which was "repentance."
Discussion:
I. JESUS EMPHASIZED REPENTANCE THOUGHOUT HIS MINISTRY
A. Jesus began His ministry by calling upon people to repent. 1. Matthew 4:17 2. Mark 1:14-15 B. During His ministry Jesus said that He came to call "sinners to repentance" (Mark 2:14-17). C. Jesus included repentance in the Great Commission (Luke 24:46-47). D. Jesus revealed the fate of those who fail to repent. 1. Luke 13:1-5 2. Matthew 11:20-24
II. IN HIS PARABLES JESUS ILLUSTRATED THE MEANING OF REPENTANCE
A. Matthew 21:28-32 B. Luke 15:17-19
III. JESUS SHOWED THAT REPENTANCE PRODUCES JOY IN HEAVEN
A. Luke 15:7 B. Luke 15:10 C. Luke 15:22-24
IV. JESUS CONNECTED REPENTANCE WITH FORGIVENESS (Luke 17:3-4)
