Repentance is a spiritual discipline needed more than ever.
Why?
Christ is returning in this generation for His Bride— the Church. Disciples of Christ for whom being conformed to the image of Christ is the cry of their hearts.
Longingly anticipating the heavenly marriage ceremony when they will be able to rejoice and shout for joy! “Let us give Him glory and honor, for the marriage of the Lamb has come at last, and His Bride the redeemed has prepared Herself.”
She has been permitted to dress in fine linen, dazzling white and clean. The fine linen signifies the righteous acts of the saints— the ethical conduct, personal integrity, moral courage and godly character of believers. Revelation 19:7-8
The Church must encourage and model repentance. However, in Her efforts to “love” mankind, the Church has forgotten biblical love isn’t a greeting card platitude. She is to nurture and prepare all the holy believers to do their own works of ministry. As they do this they will enlarge and build up the body of Christ. These grace ministries will function until we all attain oneness in the faith. Until we all experience the fullness of what it means to know the Son of God. Finally we become one perfect man with the full dimensions of spiritual maturity and fully developed in the abundance of Christ.
Then our immaturity will end! We will not be easily shaken by trouble, nor led astray by novel teachings or by the false doctrines of deceivers who teach clever lies. Instead we will remain strong and always sincere in our love as we express the truth. All our direction and ministries will flow from Christ and lead us deeper into Him, the anointed Head of His body, the Church.
For His “body” has been formed in His image and is closely joined together and constantly connected as one. And every member has been given divine gifts to contribute to the growth of all. As these gifts operate effectively throughout the whole body, we are built up and made perfect in love. Ephesians 4:12-16
Repentance isn’t popular because many are not willing to…
Confront and rebuke others.
Admit to selfishness and apathy in their Christian walk.
Confess sin.
Submit to discipline.
Unveil dark secrets.
Endure ridicule or persecution.
Nevertheless, Jesus boldly proclaimed, “The time is fulfilled, and the Kingdom of God is at hand. Repent and believe in the Gospel.” Mark 1:15
Announcing to mankind and to the heavenly realm that Papa’s truth— His wisdom— His way of doing life is the foundation for a life of excellence.
Do you desire a life of excellence? Then you must allow Papa’s…
Righteousness to reign in your heart, not corrupt affections and evil practices.
Grace and mercy empower you to overcome sin and to recognize the ungodly wisdom of men to whom Papa means nothing.
Peace that surpasses understanding to envelope you no matter the circumstances.
Yes, repentance may be a bitter pill to swallow, but it is the only path leading to a life of excellence. Ultimately ending in front of Papa’s throne where you will receive the highest of all compliments.
“You have done well, and proven yourself to be My loyal and trustworthy servant. Because you were faithful to manage a small sum, now I will put you in charge of much, much more. Come, celebrate with Me!”
Matthew 25:23
The Passion Translation
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