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Sin is defined as any violation of divine law by transgression or neglect. Being a conscientious people, we are often careful not to do the things we know shouldn’t be done, but we nevertheless often fail to do the things we ought. It’s still sin (James 4:17); which makes us all sinners. Paul declaring that, “There is no one righteous, not even one;” Romans 3:10 “…for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,…” Romans 3:23 But if we’ve accepted Christ as our Savior, aren’t we free from the consequences of sin? The Psalmist does say, “…he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.” Psalm 103:10-12But like it or not, as followers of Christ and representatives of his heavenly kingdom, we are held to a stricter accountability. Jesus declaring, “If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not be guilty of sin. Now, however, they have no excuse for their sin.” John 15:22 We know better, we’d best act better. Peter warning that, “…it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God;…” 1 Peter 4:17 Judgment? Why not absolute forgiveness? Why be held to a standard at all? Because the result would be chaos, even within the church. Everyone doing what’s right in their own eyes. (As related in Judges 21:25) Which is known as situation ethics today; if it works for me, that’s all that matters. To hell (literally) with everybody else. (To see God’s perspective on this attitude read Proverbs 14:12)

Jesus cautioned that, “For judgment I am come into this world…” John 9:39 (A much neglected aspect of his ministry.) Paul reminding us that, “…we will all stand before God’s judgment seat.” Romans 14:10 “Each of us will give an account of himself to God.” Romans 14:12 As, “…man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment.” Hebrews 9:27 But judgment doesn’t have to be painful, a not guilty verdict being available for those who have acknowledged their sin and repented of it. Be assured however, our actions do matter. A determination will be made by someone other than ourselves whether we have lived according to God’s will or our own. The Prophet Amos speaking for God across the ages with his proclamation concerning Israel, “You alone have I chosen of all the families of the earth; therefore I will punish you for all your sins.” Amos 3:2 If you claim a birthright, you have to live up to its calling. The religious leaders of Jesus day, those who should have known better and as a result done more; received Jesus’ harshest rebuke; being called hypocrites, blind guides and snakes. (Matthew 23:13-29) We now possess that truth and the commission to serve in its fullest sense. Will God expect any less of us? We are of those whom Jesus said, “From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.” Luke 12:48 For we are now that, “…chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” 1 Peter 2:9 “For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives… while we wait for the blessed hope… Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.” Titus 2:11-14

To truly repent, we much first realize we have something to repent of. To fully understand the need of repentance we must comprehend how sin affects our lives and what its ultimate consequences are; separation from God (Is. 59:1,2) and death – both spiritually and physically. (Romans 6:23) We cannot be forgiven if we are not sorry; the sinner for not realizing his sin, the saint for not taking it seriously! (See 2 Corinthians 7:10) If we do, however, “…he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9

Scripture wants us to “…not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please the sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.” Galatians 6:7 We are warned as well that, “…you may be sure your sin will find you out.” Numbers 32:23 The co-existing theme of repentance and redemption borne out in the appeal, “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14

Many today question the need for repentance. After all, these demands were made so long ago. Does it really apply today? The early church fathers thought so. Peter crying out for us to, “Repent, …and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.” Acts 3:19 (See also Acts 2:38) He further cautioned those who question God’s timing and relevance by saying, “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9 Paul asking, “…do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, tolerance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness leads you toward repentance?” Romans 2:4 For, “If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for sins is left, but only a fearful expectation of judgment….” Hebrews 10:26 Even those building their lives on the foundation of Christ will be tested for authenticity and “quality.” In falling short, we may indeed be saved – even if what was achieved is lost, making it to heaven – so to speak – by the skin of our teeth; or “…as one escaping through the flames.” (See 1 Corinthians 3:12-15)

Part of the definition of repentance entails the concept of doing something different, being turned around to new purposes and causes. Paul saying, “…I preached that they should repent and turn to God and prove their repentance by their deeds.” Acts 26:20 John the Baptist demanding that his followers, “Produce fruit in keeping with repentance.” Luke 3:8 Jesus using this same terminology to describe genuine believers of his way by saying, “By their fruit (or actions) you will recognize them.” Matthew 7:16 It is our duty, and His expectation of us to respond to this challenge of fruitfulness. Paul further admonishing us to, “…continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling.” Not so much out of fear of punishment from God but dreading the thought of disappointing him. “...for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.” Philippians 2:12,13 “For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works,…” Ephesians 2:10

A truly repentant heart responds to the offer of forgiveness and the assurance of salvation with gratitude, love and, “…the obedience that comes from faith.” Romans 1:5 As such, the recognition of the need for repentance and the availability of God’s forgiveness will spread around the world.

"Chip Shots from the Ruff of Life" from Tom Kelley

The Biggest Mistake