A Focal Point!

When John began his ministry of preparing the way for the Lord, the focal point of his message was. . .

"REPENT, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." ( Matthew 3:2 ESV)

There was the need for a change of heart and a change of focus in order to be receptive to the kingdom of Christ. Old understandings and life activities needed to be set aside for the new life associated with Jesus becoming the king on the throne of their lives. REPENTANCE was a necessity! (note Matthew 3:7-8-10)

When Jesus began His public ministry, a focal point of His message was as follows:

"From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, 'REPENT, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.'" ( Matthew 4:17 ESV)

The same need; that of turning from the old life and embracing the new abundant life Jesus came to provide. Those who felt no need for REPENTANCE refused to accept Jesus as the Messiah sent by God to redeem His people. And like John, Jesus taught the need to REPENT or otherwise perish. ( Luke 13:3 & 5)

Following our Lord's ascension back to Heaven, when the Apostles began their preaching and teaching and the church was to begin, a focal point of Peter's message was. . .

"And Peter said to them, 'REPENT and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.'" ( Acts 2:38 ESV)

We then read that Peter exhorted the crowd on the day of Pentecost with many other words, warning them to save themselves from the corrupt generation of which they were a part. ( Acts 2:40) There we about three thousand souls who accepted the warning and so REPENTED and were baptized that day. ( Acts 2:41)

REPENTANCE is still the need today! This needed change is not with God! Nor is it with the message; the Gospel of Jesus. The need for change and turning the life in the right direction is always with us! REPENTANCE is still that for which God is looking. Each day that comes is sign of God's gracious patience and another opportunity for REPENTING to occur. ( 2 Peter 3:9) May we each continue to keep our lives turned toward God and His Sovereign Will, for though no one knows the day nor the hour ( Matthew 24:36), the coming of our Lord may be close at hand.

Have a great day MAINTAINING A RESPONSIVE HEART TO GOD'S SOVEREIGN WILL!
Carl

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