I know, I know... I have this on and off relationship with blogs...
In Jesus' 1st sermon, Jesus said: "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near". (Matthew 5:17)
Here's a question: How do you know if its true repentence?
True repentence is based on two things:
1. True repentence comes from God and causes inner change...
2. True repentence bears fruit.
I think point #2 is what we often overlook - true repentence means that not only did something change inside a person, but that inner change actually produces good, meaningful results (bears fruit)
An obvious example of this is looking at Peter and Judas in the new testament. Both Peter and Judas repented, but how can you tell who "truely" repented? Well, Peter repented, and went on to be a great apostle of Jesus, while Judas repented, and then hung himself. Judas produced no "fruit"...
Thanks for Pastor Rick Park of Living Bridge Fellowship for his sermon...
1 comment:
Funny you mention this. We just finished Matthew at our bible study at work. This was one of the things that stuck out in my head as well. You can go to church, bible study, small group, etc... all you want, but if you don't take action on what you learn and "repent", nothing comes out of it. I like this idea a lot, because it's very practical and can be related to anyone, spiritual or not. Learn from your mistakes and apply what you learn to life and hopefully you'll become a better person!
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