Repentance: how truth and sincerity could cleanse your sins
Repentance makes us right with God. Image: Jametlene Reskp|Unsplash
Is there really a need for repentance? The Bible tells us there is.
Sin and disobedience have inundated humanity since the beginning of time. Adam and Eve introduced the original sin, the Israelites practiced idolatry, and the Pharisees displayed extreme pride.
We are all sinners. Romans 3:23 says, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”
God detests our inherent and unceasing defiance of His laws and ways. Today, we continue to wrestle with the devil and grapple with sin.
Repentance: the first public message of Jesus Christ
“From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.’” – Matthew 4:17
In a vibrant fishing village situated on the northern coastline of the Sea of Galilee, a man in his early thirties strode along the bustling cosmopolitan roads.
Declaring the imminent arrival of the promised kingdom with all authority bestowed upon Him by His Father, Jesus proclaimed His opening word to fallen humanity: Repent.
The short but powerful words of Jesus Christ echoed across the community, calling for repentance as the key to gaining eternal life. Luke 24:47 says: “And repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.”
More than twenty centuries later, that voice still echoes. As doubt and disbelief harden our hearts, the “devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” – 1 Peter 5:8
“The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” – 2 Peter 3:9
Repentance starts with an intimate knowledge of God.
We can find wisdom and truth in the Bible. We can’t seek absolution from someone we don’t know. We also can’t rightfully address our groans of penitence if we actually can’t identify and utter the exact sins we have committed.
Moreover, repentance requires godly sorrow. Sorrow is for sin, while regret is for emotions. We don’t become sorrowful when we lose our jobs or fail an important exam.
Repentance is not a one-time act but a continuing process throughout our lives. It also involves action. While weeping, an immoral woman showed her repentance by washing the feet of Jesus. The Lord told her, “Your sins are forgiven” (Luke 7:48).
Repentance convicts our hearts that we have hurt God and our loved ones. It should ultimately lead to a change of heart and the sanctification of our souls.
The healing power of repentance and confession
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” – 1 John 1:9
Here are some benefits when we sincerely approach God in repentance and confession:
Forgiveness of sins
Repentance and confession to God provide an opportunity for forgiveness of sins. When we sincerely approach Him in confessing our sins, God forgives us, and we can start anew.
Improved relationship with God
When we repent and confide our sins to God, we acknowledge that we need Him. This fosters a harmonious fellowship with God.
Relief from guilt and shame
Admission of sins can help us release the burden of guilt and shame. We can find relief and peace in knowing that we have been forgiven.
Growth in humility
Repentance and disclosure require humility. When we humble ourselves before God, we can grow in character and become better people.
Freedom from bondage
Repentance and confession can free us from the bondage of sin. We can break free from the cycle of sin and experience true freedom.
Inner healing
Admission of sins can lead to inner healing. We can find healing from emotional wounds and experience a sense of wholeness.
Eternal life
Repentance and confession to God are essential for eternal life. God detests unrepentant sinners that do not deserve to belong to His heavenly kingdom.
The Parable of the Lost Son
“The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.'” – Luke 15:21
The sinful and rebellious son in the story exemplifies the transformation of an errant individual into a righteous child of God. The Lost Son left his family and wasted his inheritance in “wild living.”
Later, he returned to his family and confessed to his father. Because of the sincerity of his son in seeking forgiveness, the father welcomed him back to his embrace and their home.
Like the Prodigal Son, we make mistakes, bad decisions, and commit sins that cross our holy God and other people. But God is love and just, ready to forgive us if we approach Him with humility and sincere repentance.
Atonement is never too late.
