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Why Repentance Matters: Embracing Every Word of Scripture

Embracing every word of Scripture …

Why “repent” is a key biblical word we can’t ignore.

Maybe I’m not listening too well, but it seems to me that even from our pulpits, some key biblical words are barely mentioned today. One of those words is “repent.”

I’m not surprised that I rarely hear the word “repent.” We live in an era of tolerance, entitlement, the pursuit of happiness and political correctness. So, telling someone they should feel regret, sorrow or contrition for something they’ve done wrong isn’t considered appropriate.

Just because a word may no longer be culturally appropriate doesn’t mean we should stop using it. True Bible engagement is often counter-cultural. Bible engagers can’t pick and choose what they like or dislike in God’s Word. We must interact fully and proclaim (with grace) every word and verse in the whole Bible. That’s not easy, especially when it may offend others or place us at odds with society.

Embracing difficult words in Scripture.

So, what can we do with difficult biblical themes and words like “repent”? Press into them! Let’s not forget that “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work” 2 Timothy 3:16.

Interestingly, we will be blessed when we embrace all of God’s Word. This is certainly true of the word “repent.” Here are the benefits of repentance according to 2 Corinthians 7:9-11:

It leads to sorrow for sin (v.9)
Which leads to salvation and the removal of all regrets (v.10)
Which leads to a desire for justice and restitution (v.11)

Isn’t that great? The good things God is willing and longing to give us are released into our lives when we repent. So, don’t avoid engaging with every word in the Word. For when we do, it will ultimately take us to a better place with others and a better place with God.

Conclusion.

In embracing the full counsel of Scripture, we mustn’t shy away from words like “repent,” even when they challenge our cultural norms. Repentance isn’t just a biblical injunction, but a pathway to spiritual renewal, salvation, and restoration. As we engage fully with God’s Word, we allow Him to transform us, drawing us closer to His will and into deeper relationships with others.

Embracing every word of Scripture. Read the related articles to learn more about Bible engagement.

Letting the Bible Have Its Way With Us: Bible Engagement as Transformation

Let the Bible be the Bible!

Summary

In today’s culture of tolerance and political correctness, the biblical concept of “repentance” is often overlooked, but it remains a crucial part of Scripture. True Bible engagement means embracing every word of Scripture, even the difficult ones like “repent,” which can be counter-cultural and challenging. Repentance, as described in 2 Corinthians 7:9-11, leads to sorrow for sin, salvation, and a desire for justice and restitution. By fully engaging with God’s Word, including repentance, we unlock spiritual blessings and draw closer to God and others.

2 Corinthians 4:5

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