If Repented – Luke 3:2-3

Repentance is an absolutely essential doctrine but it is rarely heard of today. Many people not only lack a correct understanding of repentance, but they frankly don’t want to hear it because it is offensive and confrontational. But the gospel begins with repentance; it is the only way to enjoy the blessings of the Kingdom of God.

What is repentance? To repent is to think again. It is a change of mind that effects a change in behavior. The story of the prodigal son is an illustration of biblical repentance. (Lk 15:17) Hungry and poor, the prodigal son realized how foolish he had been. He not only understood his impoverished state, but he understood how rich his father was, which drove him to return home. When one truly repents, he understands his own spiritual bankruptcy but also sees the riches of God’s mercy and grace. Repentance is not merely a reform in behavior, but it is a change of heart and purpose that turns a person away from sin, and towards God. It is done by the power of God alone.

Why must we repent? As Jesus’ herald, John preached a baptism of repentance. We must all repent because we are sinners who fail to satisfy God. (Ecc 7:20)

What does biblical repentance look like?
Biblical repentance is continual. Repentance is not a one-time action at the moment of conversion. Since we are in the process of sanctification, we will continually repent for our sins until the moment we die and are glorified. Contrary to what many believe, repenting is a joy because it is a gift of God. No one is able to repent without God’s grace. As we repent, we receive God’s mercy and enjoy the deep blessings of the gospel.

Because of the sinfulness of sin, believers often can’t see reasons to repent. We must prayerfully reflect on our hearts, asking the Holy Spirit to search us. Have you repented of your idols? Your lukewarmness? Your complacency? We must repent every day to remember how much we are in need of God’s grace and mercy.

Biblical repentance comes from regeneration. God will accept only the repentance of those who are born again by the Holy Spirit. (Jn 3:8) Repentance from a regenerated heart will surely bring forth fruit.

Biblical repentance is directly related to faith and salvation. We are not saved by our repentance, but repentance is a part of the process of salvation. It is a result of God’s grace on His elect. There are false types of repentance. There is a repentance that is driven by desperation such as the cases of Pharaoh and Esau. There is repentance in the form of reformation, where one hypocritically goes through behavior modification without a change of heart. These types of repentance have nothing to do with saving faith. Those who truly repent hate sin and love God. Like Paul, everything they once valued and trusted is dung compared to knowing Christ. This kind of repentance has the divine power to change your life. (Phil 3:7)

As we reflect on biblical repentance, let us learn to love to repent. True repentance will unfailingly drive us to our compassionate, merciful, and faithful Lord Jesus.