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Study 20 of 49

Repentance

A gift of God, not a qualification we manufacture

Hands-free narration of this study — good for the car.

Synopsis

Repentance is a change of mind toward God and sin, produced by seeing His goodness. Waiting until we feel repentant enough to come to Christ reverses the order: we come to Him in order to receive repentance, as surely as we come to receive pardon.

Key points

  • It is the goodness of God that leads to repentance.
  • Repentance is Christ's gift, not the sinner's contribution.
  • Godly sorrow works repentance; the sorrow of the world works death.

Key texts

  • Romans 2:4
  • Acts 5:31
  • 2 Corinthians 7:10
  • Psalm 51
  1. Comprehension

    1. Define repentance biblically.

  2. Scripture

    2. Read Romans 2:4. What leads to repentance?

  3. Scripture

    3. Read Acts 5:31. Who gives repentance?

  4. Doctrinal Clarity

    4. Why is 'I must repent before I can come to Christ' a dangerous inversion?

  5. Contrast

    5. Contrast godly sorrow with worldly sorrow.

  6. Scripture

    6. Read Psalm 51. Where does David locate his real offence?

  7. Application

    7. Are you waiting to feel worthy before returning to God?

  8. Application

    8. How would you help someone who says they cannot feel sorry for their sin?