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Basic Doctrines: Repentance
Bible Study by StaffRepentance, a vital call to change, holds primary importance in a godly life, linked inseparably with baptism. It signifies a fundamental shift in thinking, as seen when one hears and believes the true gospel, beginning to align their life with a new way. Christ Himself ties repentance to the Kingdom of God and belief in the gospel, while initial repentance involves recognition, acceptance, and transformation to conform to this divine path. Bearing fruits worthy of repentance indicates a lifelong process, not a one-time act. Just as a tree does not produce fruit overnight, a Christian does not fully repent instantly but grows over time, increasingly manifesting the fruit of the Spirit rather than the works of the flesh. This change entails a deep transformation, aiming to have the very mind of Jesus Christ, bringing every thought into captivity and control. Repentance involves not only remorse for specific sins but also a recognition of one's inherent nature that leads to falling short of God's righteousness. It requires a profound emotional response, as godly sorrow produces true change toward salvation, unlike worldly sorrow that lacks genuine transformation. The call to repent is a call to change one's whole life, to convert from sinner to saint, from worldly to godly, hastening toward righteousness. Failure to repent carries severe penalties, as salvation depends on a lifetime of turning from dead works and overcoming in faith. Once one takes hold of the plow, there is no turning back. Yet, the rewards of repentance are immense, including the gift of the Holy Spirit, forgiveness of sin, and the grace of God as joint-heirs with Christ. Through repentance, there is faith and hope to one day rule with Him for eternity, benefiting not only oneself but also aiding others to turn from their ways. Repent, for the Kingdom of God is at hand!
Repentance
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeIn mainstream Protestantism, repentance has fallen out of favor, yet it is mentioned far more in the New Testament than in the Old Testament.
What True Repentance Is
Sermonette by Clyde FinkleaRepentance doesn't just involve the negative aspect of removing sin and bad actions but turning towards righteousness and willful good actions.
Producing Fruit
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughTo be made clean only prepares us for producing fruit. If we stand still, simply resting on our justification, the dark forces will pull us backwards.
The Fruit of the Spirit
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughFruit is a frequent symbol in the Bible, most prominently in the fruit of the Spirit. It is the work of the Holy Spirit to bear fruit in us.
The True Gospel (Part 5)
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughIt is not enough just to confess Jesus verbally and believe in the resurrection as an intellectual exercise. Heartfelt belief leads to righteousness.
Of Freedom and Independence
Sermonette by Austin Del CastilloIdeas of independence apart from God emanate from carnal human nature which is aligned to the rebellious mind of Satan.
Basic Doctrines: Salvation
Bible Study by Earl L. HennAre you saved already or are you being saved? What is salvation anyway? What part do we play? Here is a study of God's Word on salvation.
Baptized in the Sea
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughIsrael experienced a type of baptism in passing through the Red Sea on the last day of Unleavened Bread. Baptism symbolizes death, burial, and resurrection.
The Vinedresser
CGG Weekly by Clyde FinkleaJohn 15:2 seems to say the Vinedresser cuts off every barren branch, but the Greek behind 'takes away' shows God doing something else: He lifts up.
Leadership and the Covenants (Part One)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)We qualify to lead by internalizing the covenants, not only believing God, but doing what He says, realizing that the covenants are not complicated.