Roots of Repentance

by David Gibson

Repentance isn’t easy.

Why?

Sin is pleasurable. Change is challenging. Confession is humbling.

What can prompt a 180°?

Fear of punishment

Knowing God was about to punish, the Ninevites repented (Jonah 3:4-10). Seeing their penitence, God relented (Jeremiah 18:7-8).

Shouldn’t Judgment Day motivate us? “The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent, because he has fixed a day on which he will judge the world in righteousness by a man whom he has appointed; and of this he has given assurance to all by raising him from the dead” (Acts 17:30-31).

God’s goodness

“Or do you presume on the riches of his kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that God's kindness is meant to lead you to repentance?” (Romans 2:4).

Taking inventory

When the Prodigal understood what his sin had cost him, he was ready to return (Luke 15:11-19).

Godly sorrow

When Peter realized he had denied knowing Jesus, “he went out and wept bitterly” (Matthew 26:75).

“For the sorrow that is according to the will of God produces a repentance without regret, leading to salvation, but the sorrow of the world produces death” (II Corinthians 7:10 NASB).

God’s blessing

“Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out, that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that he may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus” (Acts 3:19).

Strong incentives!