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Godly Sorrow

Sermonette by Martin G. Collins

Sorrow of the world, as exemplified by Jim, manifests as remorse for the consequences of actions rather than for the sin itself. Jim expressed deep sorrow for accumulating 75 speeding tickets, for landing in jail after a street fight, for his aggressive behavior while drinking, for causing a severe car accident that injured friends, and for being imprisoned. Yet, this sorrow did not lead to any change in his behavior; he continued down the same destructive path, reaping sorrow from the iniquity he sowed. Similarly, Pharaoh during the seventh plague on Egypt showed sorrow by admitting his sin and pleading for relief from the thundering and hail, but as soon as the plague ceased, he hardened his heart and returned to sin without repentance. This worldly sorrow arises from loss, disappointment, shame, or disgrace, such as a man feeling sorry for the impact of his crimes on his family while in jail, yet lacking true repentance toward God. In contrast, godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted, while the sorrow of the world produces death. Godly sorrow views sin as God sees it, recognizing its broader impact on society and future generations, and understanding it as an offense against a holy and just God. It drives a person to seek God for forgiveness, stirring action to right the wrongs committed. This sorrow, when turned toward God, transforms into a commitment to overcome sin with His help, ultimately leading to lasting joy. As Christ assured His disciples, their sorrow would turn into joy, a joy that no one could take away, emphasizing the transformative power of godly sorrow when aligned with seeking God's will.

Repentance and Righteousness (Part 1)

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Nothing happens in our lives (including repentance) until God initiates it. A change of heart, by God's Holy Spirit, results in a total change of direction.

Godly Regret

Sermonette by Ryan McClure

Worldly sorrow is superficial and unproductive, while godly sorrow yields not only repentance, but also a bumper crop of the fruits of God's Holy Spirit.

A Contrite Heart

Sermon by Martin G. Collins

The contrite or brokenhearted person finds special favor with God, and a humble or contrite spirit is indeed a precursor to forgiveness and spiritual healing.

Lamentations (Part Three)

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Personified Jerusalem, whom God depicts as a grieving widow, blames others for her troubles while overlooking her own sins as the real cause of her sorrow.

Psalm 51 (Part Four): Psalm 51:13-19

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Repentance is far more than feeling guilt or apologizing but instead is a spirit-empowered reorientation of heart, mind, and behavior.

Caveats About Self-Examination

Sermon by David F. Maas

We must be very careful how we examine ourselves. Taking the Passover in an unworthy manner can result in serious physical or spiritual hazards.

Unity and Our Responsibilities

Sermonette by John W. Ritenbaugh

Because of the justification that individual sins do not matter much, Israel's collective unity was destroyed. We cannot practice this self-excusing mindset.