The Greek word for repentance, metanoia, simply means changing of minds or going a different direction. It literally means to turn around, or to change one’s mind; to think and live differently. It is a main component of transformation.
Real transformation will ultimately express itself in the way we live. Though it begins in the renewing of the mind, it is outwardly expressed through our words, our actions and finally our lifestyle. It becomes who we are. To know the Word is not enough, we must allow it to change us. To change us, we must take action.
His kindness leads us to repentance and with repentance comes the changing (renewing) of our minds which causes transformation. The riches of His kindness, His tolerance and patience with us and His grace, empowering favor, are intended to lead us into greater blessing and abundant provision.
OCCUPY, Chapter 8 – Taking Action
As John the Baptist prepared the way for Jesus, he declared
“Repent for the kingdom of heaven has come near you.”
Matt. 3:2.
Jesus preached the same thing in Matt. 4:17 and Mark 1:15.
“The time has come, the kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!”
Romans 2:4 shows us that it is the kindness of God that leads us to repentance. So as Jesus spoke, the very fact that He was here, demonstrating and teaching the good news of the kingdom of heaven, gave those around Him access to the riches of the kingdom of heaven such as healing, resources, supernatural abundance and freedom from oppression.
Instead of the pronouncements of judgment and fear driven messages that have been classical fixtures in the church throughout the ages, the approach of the Son of Man is completely different. “Repent and believe for the kingdom of heaven is near you.” In other words, you have access to the riches of heaven, to pull down from heaven the miracle you need or desire through the grace and favor of God, therefore, repent and believe. Change your mind and believe in me.
As with Peter at his calling, the kindness of Jesus was so great that he fell face down and said “depart from me for I am a wicked man…” The kindness of Jesus expressed through the miraculous catch of fish caused Peter to realize his own sin and failings and the fact that he was unworthy of such kindness and it led to his repentance, faith in Jesus and ultimately his decision to be a disciple. From repentance through faith and into obedience to the call of God on his life. The kindness of Jesus led Peter on a transformational journey that altered the course of his entire life and ushered him into his purpose, destiny and a great legacy.
So let’s bring this down to the personal level. Where is His kindness leading you?
You actually make it seem so easy with your presentation but I find this matter to be actually something which I think I would never understand. It seems too complicated and very broad for me. I’m looking forward for your next post, I’ll try to get the hang of it!
Forgot to include my comments! Repentance really is at the heart of our lives as Christians. I should say that it NEEDS to be. Appreciated Smith’s comments that Paul lived out a repentant life in front of all. It reminds me that I need to do so before my wife, my kids, and my fellow Christians. Even my unbelieving co-workers should see a repentant attitude from me. Lots to work on.
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Amen. This verse “Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” is so prfouond and should bring great joy to all who read it. God bless, Lloyd
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So true! By choosing to have God in my life, He has given me all of those tngihs refreshment, restoration, and revival. That is why I praise Him. That is why my soul rejoices! He heals and brings new life to that which is dead and dying.
The ability to think like that is always a joy to behold.
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