Purpose: When we understand who Jesus is in light of his death and resurrection, our response of faith is to repent and be baptized for the forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:36-38). This study is designed to show a seeker what biblical repentance entails.
LUKE 13:1-5, LUKE 13:6-9
Jesus preaches that without repentance, we will all perish. He likewise expects to find fruit every time there is true repentance. The Greek word for repentance, metanoia, signifies a "turning," a "change of heart and mind." When we discover we've been going the wrong way on a one-way street, we immediately turn around (repent) and go in the opposite direction. In this case, we turn from a selfish life that has marginalized God to a life that makes God the center of our devotion, our faith, our obedience.
LUKE 3:7-14
The tangible fruit of repentance is the evidence of a changed mindset. John the Baptist insisted on repentance before baptism. If you were to ask John, "What should I do?" how would he respond to you?
ACTS 26:15-21
Jesus gives Paul the charge to "open their eyes" so that "they may turn" and prove their repentance by their deeds. Repentance involves a new perspective, a turning of allegiance, and fruit.
EPHESIANS 4:20-24
Repentance is turning from an old life to a new one. Negatively, what must be "taken off"? Positively, what is the new attitude to be embraced? What is "put on" in place of the "old self"? Repentance orients us toward God and the true life and purpose we were created for: to become like him in righteousness and holiness. What do you need to "take off" and "put on"?
2 CORINTHIANS 7:8-11
What is the difference between "worldly sorrow" and "godly sorrow?" What kinds of attitudes characterize godly sorrow? Have you previously confused worldly sorrow with true repentance? We must consider the destructive consequences of our sin and what our sin cost God, because only godly sorrow leads to repentance and salvation. Repentance is above all a matter of heart.
LUKE 15:11-32,LUKE 19:1-10
Examples of heartfelt repentance. What kind of fruit did their repentance produce? How did they feel after repenting? How did God feel? What will repentance look like for you?
ADDITIONAL HELPFUL SCRIPTURES:
Matthew 4:17
Acts 3:19-20
Acts 5:30-31
Acts 28:25-28
Romans 12:1-2
Romans 2:4
2 Timothy 2:24-26
Titus 2:11-12