THE CHURCH IN PROGRESS:
REPENTANCE
- continued -

Why is repentance necessary? Because the Lord says “repentance and remission of sins are to be preached among all nations” (Lk. 24:46-49). In repentance, the condition is to be supplied by the sinner. In remission of sins, the blessing is bestowed by the Lord. When these two events have occurred, God gives the new man the Holy Spirit. “God does not wish any should perish, so grace provides the way of salvation. He wished that all should come to repentance, be baptized and wash away their sins” (2Pet. 3:9; Acts 22:16).

Christ’s work through the cross is all-sufficient for man’s salvation. The conditions required are God’s gifts to change man’s mind, purpose and life. When Peter and other apostles were brought up before the San Hedrin, they told the chief priest that “God exalted Jesus Christ with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins” (Acts 5:31). To those gathered in the house of Cornelius, Peter said: “God also hath granted repentance and life unto the Gentiles” (Acts 11:18). These conditions are meaningful but do not avail anything apart from the death of Christ. His blood is the Atonement for our sins (Eph. 2:8).

Faith is a work of God for man to possess (Jn. 6:29). Repentance is an act for man to do (Acts 3:19). Confession is an act for man to speak (Rom. 10:10). Baptism is a surrendering to God that he may be clothed upon by Christ (Gal. 3:27), and added to his church (Acts 2:41).

The works God gave for man to do to demonstrate his faith does not set aside the grace of God or the cross to save man eternally. To do these works of God is his means to forgive man of his sins through His Son’s blood shed on the cross. So, if you believe Jesus is God’s Son and that he died for your sins, repent and turn to God.

-Gene A. Ellmore-