THE POWER OF REPENTANCE AND GOD\'S ACCEPTANCE By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Acts 3:19 - "Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord."
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Introduction
Repentance is the foundation of a restored relationship with God. It is the bridge between sinful humanity and divine acceptance. Many people today deceive themselves by putting on religious appearances while refusing to acknowledge their sins. However, God is not moved by external displays of devotion; He looks at the heart. Only those who truly repent are accepted by Him, while those who refuse to do so face rejection. The call to repentance is not an option but a divine requirement for those who seek to walk in fellowship with God.
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The Necessity of True Repentance
1 John 1:9 - "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."
God favors those who confess their sins with a sincere heart. To imagine oneself without sin is a grave deception. Many people choose to remain in their sins, covering themselves with religious practices while rejecting true repentance. This self-deception leads to spiritual blindness and a hardened heart. God rejects those who refuse to repent, not because He desires to push them away, but because they have willingly chosen rebellion over submission.
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The Consequences of Rejecting Repentance
Proverbs 28:13 - "Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy."
When people choose to live in sin and refuse repentance, they invite misery into their lives. The absence of God’s mercy brings turmoil, distress, and destruction. Those who persist in sin align themselves with demonic forces, becoming spiritually enslaved to darkness. Such individuals wonder why their lives are filled with struggles, yet they fail to see that their rebellion against God is the root cause of their suffering.
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Living Under the Covering of the Holy Spirit
Romans 8:14 - "For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God."
The Holy Spirit is given to guide believers into righteousness. When a person embraces repentance, they come under the covering of the Holy Spirit, experiencing true peace and joy. This joy is the evidence of God’s mercy at work. The Holy Spirit leads believers into divine opportunities, strengthens them in trials, and enables them to walk in victory. True followers of Christ do not live under delusion but in the clarity of God's truth.
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The Wrath of God on the Unrepentant
Romans 1:18 - "The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of people, who suppress the truth by their wickedness."
God’s wrath is poured out upon those who persist in rebellion. The world today is witnessing the consequences of sin on a massive scale. Many live in arrogance, imagining themselves to be above divine law. These individuals reject the provision of repentance and bring destruction upon themselves. They trade the blessings of obedience for the curses of disobedience.
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God’s Desire for People to Choose Life
Deuteronomy 30:19 - "This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live."
God does not desire destruction for humanity; He desires that all come to repentance. He has set before every person the choice of life or death. Those who choose repentance walk in divine favor, while those who reject it walk toward destruction. The wise acknowledge their sins, seek forgiveness, and embrace the righteousness of Christ.
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Summary
Repentance is the key to divine acceptance. Without it, people remain alienated from God, under the rule of darkness. Those who truly repent experience the mercy of God, the joy of salvation, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. On the other hand, those who refuse repentance face God's rejection and inevitable judgment. Every person must choose whether to walk in obedience or rebellion.
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Conclusion
The difference between being accepted or rejected by God lies in one’s willingness to repent. A humble heart that acknowledges sin and seeks God’s forgiveness will always find grace. However, prideful hearts that persist in sin and self-righteousness invite divine wrath. Let us, therefore, walk in humility, seek repentance daily, and remain under the covering of the Holy Spirit.
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Call to Action
Take a moment to examine your heart. Are there sins you have ignored or justified? God is calling you to genuine repentance. Confess your sins, turn away from them, and embrace the righteousness found in Christ. Walk in obedience, and you will experience the fullness of God’s blessings. Do not delay—choose repentance today!
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Final Word of Encouragement
God’s mercy is abundant for those who seek it. No matter how far you have strayed, His arms are open to receive you. Repentance is not a burden; it is a gift that restores and renews. Choose to walk in God’s light, and you will find peace beyond understanding.
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Prayer of Salvation
Heavenly Father, I come before You in humility, acknowledging my sins. I repent of my wrongdoing and ask for Your forgiveness. I believe that Jesus Christ died for my sins and rose again to give me eternal life. Today, I surrender my life to You. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit, guide me in righteousness, and help me to walk in obedience. Thank You for Your mercy and grace. In Jesus' name, Amen.
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May this teaching inspire and guide all who read it to embrace true repentance and walk in the fullness of God’s grace. Amen.
