THE PATHWAY OF GENUINE REPENTANCE II
DECEMBER 14, 2024
TEXT: If my people, who are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. (2 Chronicles 7:14)
This is the second part of the sermon, which we commenced yesterday. Today, we shall examine a few obstacles that can hinder genuine repentance. Secondly, we shall examine certain biblical characters who exemplify genuine repentance through their actions in the Bible.
OBSTACLES TO GENUINE REPENTANCE
✅ Arrogance: When a person is arrogant, they tend to engage in sin and justify their actions with pride. We must acknowledge our shortcomings and seek God’s forgiveness.
✅ Fear and Trepidation: Never be afraid to return to God after sinning.
✅ Shame: Do not let shame hold you back from seeking divine restoration.
BIBLICAL CHARACTERS WHO DEMONSTRATED GENUINE REPENTANCE
✅ David: David fell into sin on numerous occasions, but he always turned back to God. He committed adultery, murder, and disobedience (2 Samuel 11, 24).
✅ Peter: Peter found himself at the center of a negative prophecy. However, he came to terms with what had happened (thanks to Jesus’ prior prayers for him) and genuinely repented (Luke 22:54-62).
✅ The Prodigal Son: Although not a direct biblical character, the prodigal son in Jesus’ parable exemplified genuine repentance. He took responsibility for his sins and acknowledged them before his father, who readily forgave him (Luke 15:11-32).
✅ Zacchaeus: A former tax collector, Zacchaeus came into contact with Jesus and promptly acknowledged his sinfulness. He even promised to make restitution for his sins of fraud and cheating.
✅ The People of Nineveh: The people of Nineveh sinned greatly, prompting God to send the prophet Jonah to preach against them. However, they turned from their wicked ways and genuinely repented after Jonah’s preaching (Jonah 3:1-10).
✅ Ahab: With a reputation as one of the most irresponsible kings of Israel, God threatened to bring terrible punishments upon his household. However, Ahab repented genuinely (albeit temporarily, as he later returned to his sinful lifestyle) and God promised to suspend his punishment and inflict it upon his sons.
SEARCHLIGHT
Genuine repentance is crucial for divine restoration, personal revival, and spiritual growth.
PRAYER:
O Lord, give me a new heart that loves you dearly, in the name of Jesus.
BIBLE READING: Genesis 43-45, John 2
PST. MICHAEL OMOLE
