Central Truth

Repentance...

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Reflections

This passage explains the beginning of Jesus' ministry on earth. What was His message? It was simple. It went straight to the heart. It was, "Repent...for the Kingdom of Heaven is near."

What is the "Kingdom of Heaven?" The Kingdom of Heaven is the rule of God, both in this present time and the time to come. God is the ruler of the heavens and the earth. The word "REPENT" in Jesus' message is more than just feeling sorry and apologizing for your sinful life and nature. The NIV study Bible phrases it this way, "Repentance...is a radical and deliberate turning or returning to God that results in moral and ethical change and action."

Jesus didn't start off His ministry, and the coming revival through His ministry, by going to Jerusalem, approaching the religious leadership, and doing a three day conference. Nor did He preach some elaborate message to make people feel good. He simply preached repentance. Before there can be a move of God, there needs to be repentance.

At the core of every spiritual renewal, every historical revival, every move of God on this earth - is REPENTANCE. Repentance must be present before a move of God can come. Why is this so? Remember the verse, "Humble yourselves before the Lord and He will lift you up." (James 4:10)

If we desire a move of God in this area, we must start with repentance. We must repent, then we must lead people to a place of repentance before God. We lead others through our example, through loving them, through prayer, through fasting, and through speaking the Word of God into their lives.

Jesus knew that He would have a profound impact on the people. He is, of course, God incarnate. This is why He also knew that people needed to come to a place of humility and repentance before they would be able to receive what He had for them - Life, Hope, and Healing.

Lord, come and move in our lives. Bring about an outpouring of your Spirit as we come to a place of REPENTANCE.

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Discussion Questions

1. For what do you need to repent today?

I once heard it said that if we focus on changing ONE thing each year for ten years, it would be more effective than trying to change ten things about our lives in one year.

2. What is the ONE thing that you believe the Lord is speaking to your heart to change this year?

Begin that change now and diligently seek Him and ask Him how He will expand His kingdom through your repentance.

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