Principles of the Doctrine of Christ: Repentance (continued)

Beloved, in continuance of our theme from the “Principles of the Doctrine of Christ” series, entitled “Repentance” – In Jesus’ final message to his disciples, He said, “repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem” (Luke 24:47). Beloved, this can only mean that a person’s sins can only be corrected and removed through Jesus’ Name! That’s the first important bit of information a sinner or a repentant saint needs to know!

Precious Ones, Paul received the same message from Jesus after His resurrection. He said, “for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee [or reveal to you]; Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee, To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me” (Acts 26:16-18). We learn from this that all of God’s children have a challenge from God to share their revelations from God with those who are outside of the ark of safety. What does the Lord Jesus want you to share? He wants you to share with those in sin how God “appeared to thee” when you were in sin and gave you the greatest gift when you were at your lowest point – how Jesus gave you salvation when you were in sin yourself. Why does Jesus want you to “minister and be a witness” of your redemption? It’s easy – so that when the world sees how your “Repentance” brought Jesus into your life, it will simply “open their eyes to turn them from darkness to light and from the power of Satan (evil works)”.

Chosen Ones, the main reason why Christians should live a lifestyle of “Repentance” is to show others the value of “receiving (from God) forgiveness of (their) sins.” We must not only live repentance, but speak it also. For example, the disciples preached it from the Day of Pentecost until the day they died! The first of this preaching came through the lips of Peter, when the people asked him, “What shall we do [about our sinful condition]?” I’m sure you know by now Peter’s response – “Repent [change your mind about Jesus] and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of [your] sins” (Acts 2:37-38).

I will write more on this subject later.

I love you all so very much
In His Love,

Pastor William L. McCoy