I reformatted some material from Tim Keller, “All Life is Repentance”
for a chapel presentation that I wanted to share with you. I was
encouraged, challenged, and focused as I worked with it. I hope it
serves you in some way.
Luther’s first thesis nailed to the door of the Wittenberg Cathedral
acknowledged that the Lord willed the entire life of the believer to be
one of repentance.
Why? This is the way that we make progress in the Christian Life.
So, how do I repent?
Religious Repentance – How not to repent.
You admit that you are wrong because you want to keep God happy and
continue to get things from God.
You admit that you are wrong because you want to avoid the consequences
of an action.
You admit that you are wrong, that you are so bad and that you deserve
to be forgiven. You suffer consequences to merit forgiveness.
You admit that you are wrong because you are hoping to live a life that
is good enough for God to bless.
Gospel Driven Repentance – How to repent.
You admit that you are wrong because you know that even though your sin
can’t separate you from God, you know that God hates your sin and that
your sin disgraces and dishonors Him.
You admit that you are wrong because you know that this is the pathway
to deepen your joy in Christ.
You admit that you are wrong because this is how you receive the
forgiveness earned for you by Christ (Jn 1:8-9).
You admit that you are wrong because your hope is in the righteousness
of Christ.