In Saving the Lost, Jesus Requires Repentance (Luke 5:31-32)
Introduction:
1. This morning we pointed out from Luke 19:10 that Jesus came "to seek and to save that which was lost." 2. This evening we are concentrating on a requirement that the Lord revealed in these verses -- "in saving the lost, Jesus requires repentance." 3. The first point we need to make is that . . . Discussion: I. JESUS REQUIRES REPENTANCE AS A CONDITION FOR SALVATION
A. As Jesus began His ministry He taught that repentance is a requirement for entering God's kingdom (Matthew 4:17). B. In His Great Commission He taught that repentance is a requirement for receiving the "remission of sins" (Luke 24:45-47). II. JESUS REVEALED SOME IMPORTANT PRINCIPLES THAT RELATE TO REPENTANCE (we are examining four)
A. First, in two of His parables Jesus explained what repentance is. 1. In Matthew 21:28-32 Jesus gave an illustration of repentance as He showed how two sons reacted to their father's instructions. a. One of the sons repented, but the other did not. b. The son who repented actually did his father's will. c. Jesus presented this parable for the benefit of the Jewish leaders. 2. Jesus further illustrated the meaning of repentance in Luke 15:17-21. 3. In these parables Jesus explained: a. what repentance is -- a change of mind that results in a change of action b. how belief and godly sorrow produce repentance (2 Corinthians 7:8-10). B. Second, Jesus revealed the fate of those who refuse to repent (Luke 13:1-5). 1. A common misconception was that the people killed by Pilate and those killed when the tower fell were the ones who needed to repent [Jesus cleared that up in vs.3, 5]. 2. The Lord wants everyone to repent (Acts 17:30; 2 Peter 3:9). 3. Those who refuse to repent will be punished (Matthew 11:20-24). C. Third, Jesus showed why He requires us to repent (Revelation 3:19). D. Fourth, Jesus showed how repentance produces joy in heaven (Luke 15:7, 10). Conclusion:
1. Let us appreciate the fact that Jesus came "to seek and to save that which was lost" (Luke 19:10). 2. Let us understand that "in saving the lost, Jesus requires repentance."
