Life's Crossroads TV
Repentance and Faith
John the Baptist preached: “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”
—Matthew 3:2, KJV
Jesus preached: “Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”
—Matthew 4:17, KJV
Repentance and faith belong together; we turn from sin, turn toward Jesus, and place our trust in what He did for us.
How Can I Know Whether My Repentance Is Real?
Repentance should not be measured only by emotion, and tears may accompany repentance but are not proof by themselves.
- 1. Am I admitting what I did without making excuses?
- 2. Am I agreeing with God that it was wrong?
- 3. Am I willing to turn away from it?
- 4. Am I asking God to change my heart?
- 5. Am I trusting in Jesus instead of trying to save myself?
- 6. Is my conduct beginning to change?
- 7. Am I willing to make things right where I reasonably can?
- 8. When I stumble, do I confess it and return to God—or defend it and continue?
Repentance does not mean that you instantly become perfect. A repentant person may still struggle, but repentance changes the direction in which that person is walking.
There is a difference between struggling against sin and deciding to live comfortably in it.
The Goodness of God Leads Us to Repentance
“The goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance.”
—Romans 2:4, KJV
You do not have to hide from Jesus. You do not have to pretend your sin was not serious. You can tell Him the truth because He already knows it.
Come to Jesus honestly.
Confess your sin.
Turn away from it.
Believe that Jesus Christ died for your sins and rose again.
Place your trust in Him.
Ask Him to forgive you, save you, and begin changing your life.
Do Not Keep Waiting for Someday
“Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”
—2 Corinthians 6:2, KJV
Many people intend to get right with Jesus someday. But none of us is promised tomorrow.
As long as you are alive, you can turn to Jesus. Do not wait until it is too late.
A Prayer of Repentance and Faith
Lord Jesus, I confess that I have sinned against You. I cannot cleanse or save myself. I believe that You died for sinners and rose again. I bring my sin, my guilt, and my whole life to You. Please forgive me, save me, and change my heart. Help me turn away from sin and follow You in truth. Teach me through Your Word and lead me by Your Spirit. I place my trust in You. Amen.
You are not beyond grace.
Come to Jesus. Be saved. Begin again.
This teaching was developed through Bible study of 2 Corinthians 7. Study assistance included Enduring Word’s commentary on the chapter. The explanation has been independently written for Life's Crossroads TV.