There is a natural progression of steps that one must go through in order to become a Christian. Last week we noticed that first we must hear the word of God (the Bible). The Bible will produce faith in all those who read it with an unbiased heart. The faith that we all must possess is the belief that Jesus is the Son of God. What is next?

After we have come to the belief that Jesus is the Son of God (a belief based on evidence and not funny feelings) it is only natural that we should do our best to follow His commands. This reformation of life is what the Bible calls repentance.

Repentance is best defined as; “a change of heart that results in a change of action.”

Notice what Paul says about repentance; “For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death.” (2 Corinthians 7:10). Godly sorrow brings about repentance. Godly sorrow is simply the sorrow that we feel when we realize that we have sinned against God. This kind of sorrow ought to cause us to change our actions (or repent). The sorrow of the world brings spiritual death. This is a sorrow that does not bring repentance. Our prisons are full of men who are sorry (that they were caught) but they will not change because of that sorrow.

Let there be no doubt about it, repentance is an absolutely necessary part of our salvation. “I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish.” (Luke 13:3). Also, “Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent.” (Acts 17:30). One who believes in Christ but does not repent (or change his life) is still lost. Jesus says that if we really love Him, we will keep His commandments (John 14:15). Notice also, “For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome.” (1 John 5:3).

So, we must hear the word of God, believe in Jesus and repent.

But that’s not all… We’ll continue next week.