GOD CALLS ALL MEN TO REPENT By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture:
"The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9, NKJV)
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Introduction:
The call to repentance is central to the message of the Bible and the heart of God. Repentance is more than a mere acknowledgment of wrongdoing; it is a transformative act of turning away from sin and aligning with God’s will. In the present age, however, many have embraced a false gospel of “acceptance,” believing that God overlooks sin and accepts people as they are, without the need for change. This misconception has led many astray, leaving them under the weight of God’s displeasure and wrath. God’s true nature demands holiness and righteousness, and He calls all men, women, and children to repent, amend their ways, and live in accordance with His Word.
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God’s Standard is Holiness
"But as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, 'Be holy, for I am holy.'" (1 Peter 1:15-16, NKJV)
God’s requirement for holiness is unchanging. He calls His people to live lives that reflect His character and nature. Holiness is not optional; it is the standard for those who wish to be in fellowship with Him. Many who claim to belong to God have strayed from this standard, indulging in sin while falsely believing they are accepted by Him. Such attitudes grieve the heart of God.
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Repentance: The Gateway to Forgiveness
"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (1 John 1:9, NKJV)
Repentance is not merely saying “I’m sorry”; it is a heartfelt turning away from sin and turning toward God. It involves sorrow for wrongdoing and a commitment to live in obedience to God’s Word. Without repentance, there is no forgiveness, and without forgiveness, there is no reconciliation with God. True repentance is evidenced by a changed life and a renewed desire to walk in the ways of righteousness.
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The Danger of False Acceptance
"Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!" (Isaiah 5:20, NKJV)
False acceptance is a dangerous lie propagated in today’s world. It suggests that God’s love will overlook sin and that individuals can remain unchanged and still be pleasing to Him. This deception has caused many to persist in rebellion against God, believing they are secure in His love. However, God’s love does not nullify His holiness or His requirement for repentance.
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God’s Wrath Against the Unrepentant
"For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness." (Romans 1:18, NKJV)
Those who refuse to repent invite the wrath of God upon themselves. God’s patience is not infinite, and His justice demands that sin be addressed. The unrepentant are storing up wrath for themselves, and their disobedience will lead to judgment. God’s desire is for all to come to repentance, but those who reject His call will face the consequences of their choices.
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The Joy of True Repentance
"I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance." (Luke 15:7, NKJV)
Heaven rejoices when a sinner turns back to God. Repentance brings restoration and a renewed relationship with the Creator. It is an act of humility and surrender, acknowledging God’s authority and love. Those who respond to God’s call to repent experience His grace, mercy, and peace in abundance.
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Summary:
God’s call to repentance is a call to life, holiness, and restoration. He does not accept sin or condone unrighteousness, but He provides a way for all to be reconciled to Him through repentance. False teachings about unconditional acceptance without repentance are dangerous and lead to destruction. True repentance is evidenced by a changed heart and life, bringing joy to God and restoration to the repentant.
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Conclusion:
The time to repent is now. God’s patience is an expression of His mercy, but it is not eternal. Each person is responsible for responding to God’s call and turning away from sin. The decision to repent is a decision to align with God’s will and live in His blessings.
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Call to Action:
Examine your heart and life today. Are there areas of sin that need to be surrendered to God? Respond to His call to repentance with humility and a sincere desire to change. Seek His forgiveness and commit to walking in His ways.
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Final Word of Encouragement:
God’s love is abundant, and His mercy is available to all who turn to Him. No matter how far you have strayed, His arms are open to receive you. Embrace His call to repentance and experience the fullness of life in Him. “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, a broken and contrite heart—these, O God, You will not despise.” (Psalm 51:17, NKJV)
