1. The Bible addresses many subjects that relate to "the salvation of our souls." 2. We are studying some of these important subjects because a person's soul is his most valuable possession. 3. Jesus emphasized the value of our souls when He asked 2 questions that are found in Matthew 16:26. 4. The subjects we have covered include: a. the grace of God b. the death of Christ c. hearing the Word of God d. believing that Jesus is the Son of God. 5. In this lesson we are examining passages that relate to "repentance." 6. The first point we need to make is that . . .
Discussion:
I. "REPENTANCE" IS A KEY COMPONENT OF THE PLAN OF SALVATION
A. Jesus placed great emphasis on "repentance." 1. Examples: a. Jesus began His ministry by calling upon people to repent (Mark 1:14-15). b. According to Mark 2:17, Jesus came to call "sinners to repentance." c. Jesus stated twice that those who fail to repent will perish (Luke 13:3, 5). d. Jesus included "repentance" in His Great Commission (Luke 24:46-47). 2. We must listen carefully to Jesus because He is "the author of eternal salvation" (Hebrews 5:9). B. The apostles also emphasized "repentance." 1. Examples: a. Peter (Acts 2:38; 3:19) b. Paul (Acts 17:30) 2. We must listen carefully to the apostles because they confirmed the "great salvation" that Jesus first proclaimed (Hebrews 2:3-4). C. To further stress the importance of "repentance," the Lord requires everyone to repent (2 Peter 3:9). D. Now that we understand that "repentance" is a requirement for salvation, . . .
II. LET US DEFINE "REPENTANCE"
A. Repent: to change the mind 1. This is illustrated by the fact that God has repented on various occasions. a. 1 Samuel 15:11 b. Jonah 3:10 2. This is also illustrated by the prodigal son's reaction (Luke 15:17-19). 3. "Repentance" is a change of mind; however, . . . B. The fruit of "repentance" is a change of life (Matthew 3:7-8). C. "Repentance" involves much more than feeling remorse for something we have done -- it is a change of mind that results in a change of life (Matthew 21:28-32).
III. LET US EXAMINE 5 FACTORS THAT SHOULD LEAD US TO REPENT
A. The Word of God (Luke 16:27-31) B. Joy in heaven (Luke 15:7, 10) C. The judgment (Acts 17:30-31) D. The goodness of God (Romans 2:3-4) E. Godly sorrow (2 Corinthians 7:10)
IV. "REPENTANCE" IS ALSO A REQUIREMENT FOR CHRISTIANS [Those who have been saved]
A. Simon had to repent to be forgiven (Acts 8:13, 22). B. Congregations that sin must repent (Revelation 2:5, 16, 22; 3:3, 19).
Conclusion:
1. "Repentance" can be a challenge because it involves making a change that may include giving up something that is special to us. 2. The Lord exhorts us to make any necessary sacrifices (Matthew 18:8-9). 3. He will bless us in return (Matthew 19:29).
